Welcome to The St. Louis Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Airline says it's 'paused' Lambert airport route.

• Upcoming Chris Knight concert

• A deep-dive into the life of Grant's Farm

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Happiness depends upon ourselves.”

— Aristotle

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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!

What iconic St. Louis food item, known for its thin crust and unique blend of cheeses, originated in the city and has become a local favorite?

A) Toasted Ravioli

B) St. Louis-style Pizza

C) Gooey Butter Cake

D) St. Louis-style Ribs

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The iconic St. Louis food item, known for its thin crust and unique blend of cheeses, that originated in the city and has become a local favorite, is B) St. Louis-style Pizza.

News

💼 Business

Cape Girardeau developer proposes indoor sports facility in O'Fallon, Missouri. (Link)

Ex-Saint Louis Bank exec's new firm specializes in managing small-business loans for banks. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Wednesday's bowl schedule features two games, numerous St. Louis-area ties. (Link)

From Caitlin Clark and Simone Biles to a new hockey league, women's sports had a pivotal year. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Airline says it's 'paused' Lambert airport route. (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

🏀 Bellarmine Knights at Saint Louis Billikens (Women’s Basketball)
Chaifetz Arena, St. Louis
Saturday, Dec. 21st | (More info)

🏀 Illinois Fighting Illini at Missouri Tigers (Men’s Basketball)
Enterprise Center, St. Louis
Sunday, Dec. 22nd | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Chris Knight
The Golden Record, St. Louis
Saturday, Dec. 21st | (More info)

🎵 Squirrel Nut Zippers
City Winery STL, St. Louis
Sunday, Dec. 22nd | (More info)

Family

❄️ The Chalet + Curling (Every Sunday)
7730 Bonhomme Ave, St. Louis
Sunday, Dec. 22nd | (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 celebrating a futuristic international festival” 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

Beat Generation in St. Louis (1950s) - Notable figures like William S. Burroughs spent time in St. Louis.

In the 1950s, St. Louis, Missouri, played a crucial albeit understated role in the Beat Generation, a literary movement characterized by its rejection of conventional societal norms and its exploration of spirituality, drugs, sexual liberation, and the human condition. The city, with its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant jazz scene, provided an ideal backdrop for Beat writers and artists seeking inspiration and a space to challenge the status quo. Among the notable figures who spent time in St. Louis was William S. Burroughs, a central member of the Beat Generation, whose works would go on to influence a wide range of cultural and literary spheres.

Burroughs, born in St. Louis in 1914, was deeply connected to the city through his family's roots and would return to it at various points in his life. His experiences in St. Louis shaped his early perspectives and featured in his writings, blending with his observations of the human condition and critiques of societal norms. The city's own complexities, with its mix of industrial progress and cultural depth, mirrored the contradictions Burroughs often explored in his work. Through venues that hosted jazz performances and literary discussions, St. Louis fostered a unique environment where Beat ideas could simmer and spread among intellectual circles.

While St. Louis may not have been as prominently recognized in Beat lore as cities like New York or San Francisco, its influence on the movement and its key figures is undeniable. The local scene enabled connections between like-minded individuals and offered a haven for free thought and expression, critical components of the Beat ethos. St. Louis's contribution to the Beat Generation highlights the city’s role in the broader tapestry of American cultural and literary development during the mid-20th century, an aspect that continues to invite exploration and appreciation.

Famous People From St. Louis

Grant's Farm - The ancestral home of the Busch family, founders of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, which has played a significant role in St. Louis's development and culture.

Grant's Farm, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is deeply woven into the fabric of American brewing history and the legacy of the Busch family, founders of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. In 1852, Adolphus Busch, a determined immigrant from Germany, co-founded what would become one of the largest and most influential breweries in the United States. The acquisition of Grant's Farm in 1903 by the Busch family marked the beginning of its journey as a symbol of their brewing empire and a pivotal element in the development of St. Louis.

The Ulysses S. Grant Connection (1850s)

Before becoming the private residence of the Busch family, the land that is now Grant's Farm had notable historical significance. In the 1850s, it was owned by Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States. Grant worked the land as a farm, and it was part of what was known as Grant's Cabin, where he purportedly wrote parts of his famous memoirs. This connection adds a layer of national historical importance to the estate.

Expansion and Innovation in Brewing (1903-1920)

Under the leadership of Adolphus Busch and his successors, Anheuser-Busch experienced unprecedented growth and innovation. The early 20th century saw the brewery pioneering pasteurization of beer for longer shelf life and the use of refrigerated rail cars for wider distribution. These innovations not only propelled the company forward but also shaped the brewing industry at large. Grant's Farm became a private retreat for the Busch family amidst this period of expansion, a place where they could escape the burgeoning industrial landscape.

Prohibition and Preservation (1920-1933)

The Prohibition era presented a formidable challenge to the brewery and the Busch family. Anheuser-Busch survived these difficult times by diversifying its products to include non-alcoholic beverages and yeast for baking. During this period, Grant's Farm served as a sanctuary where the family could hold onto their brewing heritage while navigating the uncertainties of Prohibition.

Post-Prohibition Era and Modernization (1933-1950)

With the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, Anheuser-Busch and the American brewing industry experienced a renaissance. The company quickly reestablished itself as a leader in the beer market through modernization efforts and aggressive marketing strategies. Meanwhile, Grant's Farm underwent significant developments, reflecting the family's prosperity and the company's resurgence.

Opening to the Public (1954)

In 1954, in a move that underscored the Busch family's commitment to community engagement and conservation, Grant's Farm was opened to the public. The farm became not just a symbol of the Busch family's success but also a tangible connection between Anheuser-Busch and the people of St. Louis and beyond. The opening featured wildlife conservation areas, the historic cabin of Ulysses S. Grant, and various family-friendly attractions.

Conservation Efforts and Educational Outreach (1954-Present)

Since its public opening, Grant's Farm has played a significant role in wildlife conservation, education, and public outreach. The estate houses a variety of animal species and offers educational programs that promote conservation awareness among visitors. These efforts have cemented Grant's Farm's reputation as a place where families can learn about and connect with nature.

St. Louis and the Legacy of the Busch Family (1852-Present)

Grant's Farm and the Anheuser-Busch Brewery have contributed significantly to the cultural and economic development of St. Louis. The Busch family's philanthropic efforts and commitment to the community have left an indelible mark on the city. St. Louis is not just the birthplace of their brewing empire but also a community they have helped shape and support through various endeavors.

Transition to the Future (21st Century)

The 21st century has seen Grant's Farm continue to evolve while staying true to its heritage. The property remains a beloved destination for both locals and tourists, offering a blend of historical legacy, conservation efforts, and family entertainment. The future of Grant's Farm lies in its ability to adapt to changing times while preserving the rich legacy of the Busch family and their brewing dynasty.

Legacy of Grant's Farm and the Busch Family

The story of Grant's Farm is intertwined with the narrative of American enterprise, innovation, and family tradition. As the ancestral home of the Busch family, it symbolizes the achievements of one of America's most iconic brewing families and their lasting impact on the nation's cultural landscape.

Key Achievements of Grant's Farm and the Busch Family:

• Acquisition and development of Grant's Farm as a symbol of the Busch family's success and heritage.

• Survival of Anheuser-Busch through the Prohibition era, showcasing resilience and innovation.

• Opening of Grant's Farm to the public in 1954, reflecting a commitment to conservation, education, and community engagement.

• Significant contributions to the cultural and economic development of St. Louis.

• Ongoing conservation efforts and public outreach programs that highlight the family's dedication to wildlife and environmental education.

Grant's Farm has played a pivotal role in the history of St. Louis and the American brewing industry, reflecting the resilience, innovation, and community spirit of the Busch family. Its transformation from a private family retreat to a public haven for conservation and education illustrates the family's commitment to giving back to the community and preserving their legacy for future generations.

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

-Yannick Lyons

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