Mini-Flood 18: The Biggest Birthday Ball

photograph by Janet Henrichs

On February 16th, stl250 invited St. Louis residents and visitors to attend a fun and upbeat event at the Missouri History Museum that honored St. Louis’ 250th anniversary with food, music and performances that reflected our region’s history and traditions. In addition, the Museum unveiled its new exhibition, “250/250“, which is a loving portrait of the city painted by 50 images, 50 people, 50 places, 50 moments and 50 objects that inspire and challenge.

photograph by Jason Gray

photograph by Shirley Moore

photograph by Jeni Kulka

photograph by Ann Aurbach

photograph by Jason Gray

For some, the Missouri History Museum may inspire visions of quiet archivists cataloguing dusty artifacts (or maybe even of the textbook pages skimmed over in high school), but this would be an unfortunate misunderstanding. The Museum is a vibrant destination, with much to do, poised on a campus that is both historically significant and extremely beautiful. On the occasion of The Biggest Birthday Ball, MoHist was resplendent. The evening also demonstrated the Museum’s expert layout, allowing visitors to effortlessly flow between three levels of activities.

photograph by Kara Schoen

photograph by Patrick Gioia

photograph by Dan Henrichs Photography, St. Louis

photograph by Siobhan Lestina

photograph by Jeni Kulka

photograph by Captured n Time Photography

photograph by Kara Schoen

photograph by Amanda Miller

On the upper tier, the VIP Lounge occupied Bixby’s (the on-site restaurant) and the platform overlooking the MacDermott Grand Hall (where Mayor Slay and County Executive Dooley toasted the crowd). A stage in MacDermott Hall, on the middle level, rotated music performances by the St. Louis All-Stars. Also on the main level, several exhibitions were open to explore, including “250/250”. On both the upper and main level, food ranging from fresh oysters to Ted Drewes was available to guests. Cocktail stations were set-up throughout. On the lower level, visitors could have their picture superimposed onto a Victorian era scene, and the stage performances by MADCO and The St. Louis Black Repertory Company were conducted in the Lee Auditorium.

Video promo of the 250/250 exhibition:

photograph by Ann Aurbach

photograph by Jason Gray

photograph by Jeni Kulka

photograph by Kara Schoen

photograph by Jason Gray

photograph by Patrick Gioia

MAP:

PFSTL Members walking on the icy Mississippi; photograph by Good-Eye Photoshare