Photo by Jennifer Smith
The city of Maplewood sits along the western border of St. Louis and is part of St. Louis County. The history of the Maplewood dates to the 1800s and includes ties with the Chouteau family known for their role in St. Louis history. A more in depth history can be read in the article Photo Flood 60: Maplewood from September 2017.
Photo by Matthew Brown
The historic Route 66 which ran from Chicago to Santa Monica passed through St. Louis. Manchester Road is one section of the old highway and runs through the heart of downtown Maplewood. As with many towns along the Route, once the interstates were constructed, they began to fade away. In the 1990s, Maplewood began the push to revive their town. They have done this by embracing their history as well as finding new ways to bring attention to the area.
Photo by Bud Hirsch
Photo by Irene Griggs
Photo by Meredith Bousman
Photo by Mike Matney
Today, as you walk along the 7200 and 7300 blocks of Manchester Road, you’ll find sidewalk plaques that share the history of Maplewood’s businesses—those that flourished in the past and those still thriving along the original Route 66 route.
Photo by Bud Hirsch
Photo by Irene Griggs
Photo by Meredith Bousman
Photo by Mike Matney
There are many community events throughout the year with one of the biggest being Let Them Eat Art. This is an annual art fair that pays tribute to Bastille Day. This day marks the Storming of the Bastille which was a major event during the French Revolution. The first year of this festival was 2005 and it brings in over 70 artists and performers each year.
Photo by Bud Hirsch
Photo by Irene Griggs
Photo by Meredith Bousman
Photo by Mike Matney
In May 2014, Maplewood was listed as the First Green Dining District in the nation. This is recognizing restaurants that focus on environmental sustainably and sourcing local ingredients.
Photo by Irene Griggs
Photo by Mike Matney
Comparing the photos of this visit to Maplewood to the visit in 2017, we can see how a lot of things have changed. But you can also see how the heart of the city is still the same.
Photo by Irene Griggs
Photo by Mike Matney
Photo by Jennifer Smith
Photo by Matthew Brown
