Sheepshead in Milwaukee
How a Bavarian card game became Wisconsin's favorite pastime
Milwaukee's Official Card Game
In 1983, Milwaukee officially declared Sheepshead the city's official card game - a recognition of its deep cultural roots in Wisconsin's German-American community.
The Journey to Wisconsin
Born in Bavaria
Schafkopf ("sheep's head") develops in southern Germany. Played in taverns and homes across Bavaria.
German Immigration Wave
Political upheaval and failed revolutions drive German immigration to America. Many settle in Wisconsin.
Peak German Milwaukee
27% of Milwaukee is German-born. German is spoken in homes, schools, and businesses. Sheepshead is everywhere.
Americanization
"Schafkopf" becomes "Sheepshead." The game evolves with American variations while keeping its German soul.
Official Recognition
Milwaukee declares Sheepshead the official city card game. A nod to its German heritage.
Living Tradition
Sheepshead remains beloved in Wisconsin. Played at family gatherings, taverns, and now online.
Why Wisconsin?
Wisconsin attracted German immigrants for several reasons:
- • Familiar climate - Similar to southern Germany
- • Brewing industry - Milwaukee became America's brewing capital
- • Established communities - Germans attracted more Germans
- • Land availability - Farmland for families seeking opportunity
By 1900, Milwaukee had more German-language newspapers than English ones. Sheepshead was as common as baseball.
German Words That Stuck
Schmear
From "schmieren" (to grease) - adding points to your partner's trick
Schneider
Means "tailor" - losing by 30+ points (cut short!)
Schwarz
Means "black" - losing every trick (total darkness)
Mauer
Means "wall" - refusing to pick (building a wall)
Keeping the Tradition Alive
Today, Sheepshead lives on at family gatherings, Wisconsin taverns, and online. Many Wisconsinites learn the game from grandparents who learned from their grandparents.
Play Sheepshead Online→