Welcome to The St. Louis Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Clayton-based investment bankers close sale of the geospatial company

• Upcoming St. Louis Cardinals match

• A deep-dive into the life of George Washington Carver

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

-Nelson Mandela

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which St. Louis museum is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of blues music, featuring artifacts, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits?

A) The National Blues Museum

B) The Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries

C) The Griot Museum of Black History

D) The Museum of Westward Expansion

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The famous St. Louis brewery that offers tours showcasing the brewing process and includes a visit to the historic Clydesdale stables is C) Anheuser-Busch Brewery.

News

💼 Business

St. Louis public company names new C-suite roles ahead of mega-merger. (Link)

Clayton-based investment bankers close sale of the geospatial company. (Link)

St. Louis-area tent company buys assets from family-owned Illinois tent business. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Brandon Crawford’s Bay Area return with the Cardinals is a low-key affair. (Link)

Paul Skenes’ strong start, Jeferson Quero sidelined: Minor league notes on NL teams’ top prospects. (Link)

Chris Caray joins father in booth as fourth-generation MLB broadcaster. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Chesterfield-based mapping firm sells for $44 million. (Link)

Back taxes on Paul McKee properties top $1.6 million. St. Louis prepares tax sale. (Link)

Creve Coeur approves tax incentives for ‘village’ on former Bayer campus. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ Arizona Diamondbacks at St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium, St. Louis
Tuesday, April 23rd | (More info)

⚾ Arizona Diamondbacks at St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium, St. Louis
Wednesday, April 24th | (More info)

⚾ Chicago White Sox at St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium, St. Louis
Friday, May 3rd | (More info)

🏈 Houston Roughnecks at St. Louis BattleHawks
The Dome at America's Center, St. Louis
Saturday, May 4th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Slothrust
Blueberry Hill Duck Room, St. Louis
Tuesday, April 23rd | (More info)

🎶 Silversun Pickups
The Hawthorn, St. Louis
Thursday, April 25th | (More info)

🎵 Gentry Blue
Tin Roof - St. Louis, St. Louis
Friday, April 26th | (More info)

🎤 Brett Young
Ballpark Village, St. Louis
Saturday, April 27th | (More info)

Family

⚽ The Biggest Dog Meetup in St. Louis
4565 McRee Avenue, St. Louis
Sunday, April 28th | (More info)

🚗 9th Annual Anniversary Party & Car Show
10701 Watson Road, St. Louis
Saturday, April 27th | (More info)

🏊 Sensory Swim for Autism Acceptance Month
9967 Manchester Road, St. Louis
Thursday, April 25th | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “St. Louis where every building is a work of abstract art” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

St. Louis Historical Events

Civil War and St. Louis (1861-1865) - St. Louis's strategic role and Camp Jackson affair.

During the American Civil War from 1861 to 1865, St. Louis, Missouri, played a critically strategic role due to its significant geographical location. Nestled at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, St. Louis served as a vital transportation and logistics hub, controlling access to the Mississippi River and the interior of the continent. This position was crucial for the Union, as controlling St. Louis meant controlling the flow of troops, supplies, and information across a vast area. The city's large German immigrant population, who were overwhelmingly anti-slavery and supportive of the Union, further solidified St. Louis as a Union stronghold in a state that was deeply divided over the issue of slavery.

One of the most pivotal events in St. Louis during the Civil War was the Camp Jackson affair, which took place in May 1861. This incident occurred when Union forces, led by Captain Nathaniel Lyon, surrounded a pro-Confederate militia encamped at Camp Jackson. Lyon suspected the camp was planning to support a secessionist uprising in St. Louis and potentially seize the federal arsenal located in the city. After demanding the militia's surrender, tensions escalated, leading to a violent clash when shots were fired as the militia was being marched through the city streets. The confrontation resulted in the deaths and injuries of soldiers and civilians alike, ultimately swaying public opinion in St. Louis and Missouri more firmly towards the Union cause.

The Camp Jackson affair exemplified the precarious position St. Louis occupied during the Civil War as a border city within a border state. Its strategic importance to both Union and Confederate causes made it a focal point of military and political maneuvers throughout the conflict. While St. Louis remained under Union control for the duration of the war, the city experienced significant political and social tensions. These tensions reflected the larger national struggle over slavery and state's rights, highlighting St. Louis's critical role in the complex tapestry of Civil War history.

Famous People From St. Louis

George Washington Carver (c. 1864–1943): A Trailblazer in Agricultural Science

Early Years and Quest for Education (c. 1864-1885)

Born into slavery in Diamond, Missouri, George Washington Carver embarked on a quest for education at a young age. Facing the constraints of segregation, Carver traveled from one school to another, demonstrating early signs of his insatiable curiosity and perseverance.

The Pursuit of Higher Learning (1885-1896)

Carver's academic journey led him to Simpson College in Iowa, where he initially studied art and piano, before transferring to Iowa State Agricultural College (now Iowa State University). At Iowa State, he pursued a degree in agricultural science, becoming the first African American to earn a Bachelor and eventually a Master's degree from the institution.

Innovations at Tuskegee Institute (1896-1943)

Recruited by Booker T. Washington, Carver joined Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, where he dedicated his career to research in agricultural science. His innovative work, particularly with peanuts, sweet potatoes, and soybeans, aimed at improving the lives of impoverished farmers by promoting crop rotation and introducing alternative crops to cotton.

The Peanut and Its Many Uses (1900s-1940s)

Carver's research on peanuts led to the creation of over 300 products, ranging from peanut butter to cosmetics and dyes. His inventions not only showcased the versatility of peanuts but also played a crucial role in revitalizing the Southern agriculture industry.

Connection to St. Louis (1900s)

Carver's bond with St. Louis emerged through his collaboration with the St. Louis Carver Research Foundation and local businessmen interested in his work, facilitating further research and the promotion of his agricultural teachings. This partnership exemplified his impact beyond the confines of Tuskegee and underscored his influence on American agriculture.

Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture (1900s-1940s)

Carver was a pioneer in the promotion of sustainable agriculture, advocating for soil conservation and crop diversification long before these practices became widely recognized. His work laid the groundwork for environmentally sustainable farming practices, underscoring his foresight and innovative spirit.

Outreach and Education (1896-1943)

Dedicated to spreading his knowledge, Carver embarked on numerous outreach activities, including the Jesup Wagon, a mobile classroom that brought his teachings to farmers. He was a beloved figure for his efforts to educate and empower rural communities through science.

Recognition and Legacy (1920s-1943)

Carver's contributions to science and society were widely recognized during his lifetime. He received numerous accolades, including the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP in 1923 and an honorary doctorate from Simpson College. His legacy as a scientist and humanitarian endures, highlighted by the George Washington Carver National Monument, established in his honor.

Final Years and Death (1940-1943)

In his final years, Carver continued his research and outreach efforts despite declining health. He passed away on January 5, 1943, at Tuskegee Institute, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, philanthropy, and perseverance against adversity.

Posthumous Honors and Continuing Impact (1943 and Beyond)

Carver's influence extended well beyond his death, with numerous schools, foundations, and awards named in his honor. His life and work continue to inspire future generations in the fields of science, agriculture, and education.

Key Achievements of George Washington Carver:

• Developed over 300 products from peanuts, sweet potatoes, and soybeans, revitalizing Southern agriculture.

• First African American to earn a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree from Iowa State Agricultural College.

• Played a pivotal role in promoting sustainable agriculture through crop rotation and diversification.

• Founder of the "Moveable School, bringing practical agricultural knowledge to farmers.

• Recipient of numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science and society, including the Spingarn Medal.

George Washington Carver's journey from slavery to becoming a towering figure in agricultural science is a testament to his unwavering determination, intellect, and compassion. His innovative work in sustainable agriculture and his efforts to uplift impoverished communities mark his legacy as a pioneering scientist and humanitarian. Carver's life remains a beacon of inspiration, embodying the transformative power of education and innovation in the face of adversity.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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