The West County Democrats toured the new museum at the Gateway Arch. If you have not been there yet, you should see it, because the exhibits do a great job of illustrating the history of St. Louis; the native peoples in this region, the adventurers who founded the city, the explorers who embarked on journeys west and many touch points throughout our history.
The museum also offers insight into the Arch– how it was envisioned, designed and constructed. The Arch represents a not just a great architectural accomplishment, but a shining (literally) example of how many people with diverse skills can come together to achieve something ingenious and truly remarkable.
Along with the museum expansion and refresh, what we have known as the ‘Jefferson National Expansion Memorial’ is now officially a national park: Gateway Arch National Park. Like many of the cultural attractions in St. Louis, the museum is free ( although the tram to the top has a fee) and very family friendly.
The new museum is impressive and very well done; and makes a good impression of our city and our region. I met people at the Arch who had come in for the Blues- Stanley Cup playoff game last evening but had made point of staying over to see the museum. They may have been disappointed by the hockey game but weren’t at Arch.
Of course the river was an extra attraction. It crested yesterday, and for those who have not seen it, this is what it looks like now.
— Mark Toenjes, WCD Member