The building that housed The Orbit bar was originally a pharmacy, built in the early 1900’s. To keep the kids entertained, the pharmacy bought a coin operated pink elephant that sat in the lobby. It was 'Albermart', a corner pharmacy, until approximately the early 50’s when it was turned into an organ piper bar/nightclub. The murals on the walls were painted in 1954 (reportedly by the same guy who did the paintings in the Basilica of St. Josaphat on 6th & Lincoln). The bar itself was built in sort of a half 4-leaf-clover design, and sat about 30 people. Behind that bar was another bar type structure that had a grand piano on it. (Imagine having a cocktail watching someone play the piano above you.) In the late 1990s there was a fire on the 2nd floor above the bar space (fortunately the murals were not damaged).

Two gay men, Michael and Russell, wanted to open a gay bar, and took over the space after the fire. They cleaned up the water damage in the bar and opened the doors of "The Orbit" in February of 1999. The interior ceiling was painted with stars and planets to go along with the murals on the walls. Althought the pipe organ behind the bar had been removed before this time, Michael saw the pink elephant in the basement and brought it back to life giving it a space right next to the front door. They also installed a dance floor at the west end along with the DJ booth.

Many people stopped at The Orbit before heading over to LaCage on Friday and Saturday nights. It is largely remembered for its purple exterior, pink elephant ride, electronic music, sci-fi murals, and elaborate theme parties. Orbit thus created unique and exciting ambience. There were often live bands that played there, drawing more than just gays. The Jeff Aranda Band and Martha Berner are just two of the artists who performed there. Another draw would be the theme parties. Once, he did a beach theme party and brought in tons of sand for the floor.

Michael tried several times negotiating with the owner of the building to purchase, but those negotiations always fell apart for one reason or another. That's likely a major reason for the bar’s demise. The bar closed in 2003.

(A book, "LGBT Milwaukee" by Michail Takach, seeks to make the story of LGBT Milwaukee accessible, visible, and portable for future generations--before it is too late. Orbit is one of many early LGBT landmarks documented in the book.)

Recollections: The following are recollections of others who have been kind enough to submit their personal memories to the webmaster. You are welcome to do the same! (Recollections collected and organized by Jamie Taylor.)