On
October 28th 1965, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis is completed. This
arch was built to commemorate the Louisiana Purchase and commemorate the rapid
exploration and westward expansion that preceded it. The architect Eero
Saarinen designed the arch. The arch also commemorates the role of St. Louis as
a trading post and outpost during the days of the old frontier and also
commemorates the Louis and Clark expedition along with St. Louis’ role in the
War Of 1812.
This
event gave the people of that time something to look upon and wonder, “Why is
that there?” and begin to dig into the history surrounding it. Not only this
but the more practical aspect of the arch is the beautiful views from the top
that the monument is known for. The people of this time flocked to the arch to be one of the first to see the view from the top and to dig into the history of the monument and St. Louis itself. These people now had a trademark monument for their city that represented and signified its proud history in the past.
The event is still significant today. Tourists still crowd the arch to get views from the top as well as to learn the history of the city. The story of the old frontier and westward expansion is still commonly taught in most schools today making the backstory all the more relevant. The role of St. Louis is talked about and covered as well.
