Started in 1963, opened to the public in 1967, and built as a symbol of Westward expansion...
It has been the catalyst for the extensive downtown growth and development St. Louis has seen since its erection. On the riverbank of the Mississippi River, dividing Missouri and Illinois, the Arch stands as the true Gateway to the West and is a sight to be held.
The Arch stands watch over the city's beloved Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals (AKA the 2011 World Series Champs)...
It has appeared in most of our baby photos and wedding photos. It has been the destination of our school field trips and family outings. The Arch IS St. Louis. It just is. Despite the fact that most of us are used to the sight of its grandeur in the sky, it still never ceases to impress even the locals. I don't care HOW many times one has visited the Arch, it is impossible to stand at the base and not marvel at its size.
The Arch is the icon of our city.
As with any architectural icon, the Arch has been the backdrop to good, bad, AND ugly...
In completing a school paper recently, my son had to "google" the Arch. I found the results entertaining enough to share.
Some were awe-inspiring...
The cat holding the MET One building is my personal favorite! ;)
