Favorite American City, Then, Now - St. Louis
Posted Wednesday, August 30, 2023 07:52 PM

Then: St. Louis

St. Louis, before the Arch
St. Louis, before the ArchMissouri Historical Society

Like San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge, it is difficult to imagine St. Louis without its arch. Originally, the 82 acres of land designated by President Franklin Roosevelt to serve as a National Historic Site was filled with homes and businesses. The low-income riverfront was condemned, displacing the residents when condemnation was complete in 1939.

Now: St. Louis

St. Louis view from the Arch
St. Louis view from the ArchGetty Images

After years of legal battles, the St. Louis Gateway Arch finally arrived on the scene in 1967. Named the Gateway Arch, the city dedicated the monument to the American people to honor westward expansion. Following suit, more riverfront properties were developed and built, include a sports stadium, apartment complexes and office towers, plus a 30-story hotel.

In 2018, the Gateway Arch was designated as a National Park.

 

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