“Ulysses S. Grant is one of the most famous Americans of his era. As the commanding general of the US Army during the Civil War, he led the fight to preserve the Union. As the 18th president (1869 – 77), he championed civil rights for African Americans.” – National Park System (NPS)
The Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site includes White Haven, his home. Here you can take a tour of the main house, learn more about his legacy at the visitor center, watch a 22-minute movie about his life (which was really informative), and stroll the grounds.
A short 20-minute drive takes you from the Ulysses S. Grant Historic Site into downtown St. Louis, which is where you will find the Gateway Arch National Park. This park “commemorates St. Louis’ role in the westward expansion of the United States in the 1800s.” – NPS
The Arch is designed to sway up to 18 inches in high winds or an earthquake.
There are 8 tram cars that are connected together. Each tram car holds up to 5 people.
According to the NPS, “In ideal conditions, you can see 30 miles from the top.”
“Euro Saarinen’s sleek Modernist design was chosen from among 172 proposals.” – NPS
In addition to the Arch, “The Tulip Chair was one of Eero Saarinen’s most famous and lasting furniture designs.” – NPS
Some other interesting facts about the Gateway Arch:
“Opened in 2018, the Museum at the Gateway Arch covers 201 years of history focusing on the role of St. Louis in the westward expansion of the US.” – NPS Here are some parts of the museum that I found interesting.
And finally, how the Gateway Arch Memorial came to be…
“St. Louis’ Old Courthouse is an important structure of both historical and architectural significance. This building was the center of activity for a developing city that became America’s “Gateway to the West.”…The famous Dred Scott case began here and led to a divisive U.S. Supreme Court decision.” – NPS
The Old Courthouse is located at the base of the Gateway Arch across from a small park (the Luther Ely Smith Square).
“During the time of the great westward migrations, the courthouse was gathering point for many people heading west.”…“In the rotunda, dignitaries were honored, politics and wars were debated…” – NPS
While in St. Louis we walked around downtown and found this Citygarden.
There were some very interesting sculptures here.
Thanks for posting all these pixs! Every time I passed the Gateway Arch, I wished I had the time to stop & go up in it, but never did.
How many pages left in your passport?
Y’all must’ve won the lottery.
Haha…thanks Becky! We plan to keep posting as we begin our travels again next year.
Simply outstanding. Thanks for taking us along. You two are history lessons that our classrooms in the United States would be wise to imitate.
Thanks Jerry and Fran. Looking forward to seeing you during our travels next year!
Quite an educational tour. Enjoyed it!
You are making us want to visit St Louis now.