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St. Louis is an independent city and major U.S. port in the state of Missouri, built along the western bank of the Mississippi River, on the border with Illinois. The city is the cultural and economic center of the Greater St. Louis area, making it the largest metropolitan area in Missouri and the 19th-largest in the United States.
 Prior to European settlement, the area was a major regional center of Native American Mississippian culture. The city of St. Louis was founded in 1764 by French fur traders and named after Louis IX of France. In 1764, following France's defeat in the Seven Years' War, the area was ceded to Spain and retroceded back to France in 1800. In 1803, the United States acquired the territory as part of the Louisiana Purchase. During the 19th century, St. Louis developed as a major port on the Mississippi River. In 1904, it hosted the Louisiana Purchase Exposition and the Summer Olympics.
The economy of metro St. Louis relies on service, manufacturing, trade, transportation of goods, and tourism. Its metro area is home to many major corporations. This city has also become known for its growing medical, pharmaceutical and research presence.
St. Louis has 2 professional sports teams: the St. Louis Cardinals of Major League Baseball and the St. Louis Blues of the National Hockey League. The city is commonly identified with the 630-foot tall Gateway Arch in Downtown St. Louis.
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The Old Courthouse located several blocks from the Gateway Arch, at 11 North 4th Street, was serving as the temporary Ticketing and Visitor Center for the Gateway Arch during construction 2017. Admission was free. |
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The two RV Gypsies explored a significant part of U.S. history when they visited the Old Courthouse, which was built between 1839 and 1862. They walked through this architectural masterpiece with restored courtrooms and experienced a time and place where Fred and Harriet Scott sued for their freedom and Virginia Minor fought for women’s right to vote. Through special exhibits, the two RV Gypsies learned about St. Louis’ role in early settlers’ movement into western America.
Children ages five through 13 may earn a badge by completing activities in a Junior Ranger booklet at the Old Courthouse. |
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Driving past the Lumiere Casino, Karen Duquette took a few pictures out the window of their moving car because the building kept changing colors. It was difficult to get really good photos however. |
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Below: The two RV Gypsies liked the unique walkway on the outside of a building, and the reflection in another building. |
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