Welcome to The St. Louis Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Fast-growing residential real estate brokerage adds to its holdings.

• Upcoming Rodney Carrington concert

• A deep-dive into the life of Charles E. Anderson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” 

–Alan Cohen

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!

In St. Louis, which historic building, once the tallest building in the city, has been converted into artist lofts and is known for its Gothic Revival architecture?

A) The Wainwright Building

B) The Cupples House

C) The Arcade Building

D) The Paul Brown Building

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The bridge in St. Louis noted for its innovative design and serves as a vital connection over the Mississippi River, offering pedestrian and bike paths alongside vehicle lanes, is B) The Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge."

News

💼 Business

St. Louis developer begins work on new Metro East apartment project. (Link)

Fast-growing residential real estate brokerage adds to its holdings. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Cardinals hang tough through Yankees' late drama for 1st win in Bronx since '64. (Link)

Cardinals designate OF Tommy Pham for assignment, recall Jordan Walker. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Bid of $8.4M wins auction of state's downtown St. Louis building. (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

⚾ Seattle Mariners at St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium, St. Louis
Fri, Sep 6th - Sun, Sep 8th | (More info)

⚾ Cincinnati Reds at St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium, St. Louis
Tue, Sep 10th - Thu, Sep 12th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Rodney Carrington
River City Casino & Hotel, St Louis
Friday, Sep 6th | (More info)

🎵 Authority Zero
Blueberry Hill, St Louis
Saturday, Sep 7th | (More info)

Family

🏛️ Magic Chef Mansion Tour
3400 Russell Boulevard, St. Louis
Saturday, Sep 7th | (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 with interactive, educational playgrounds for all ages” 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

St. Louis Arsenal During Civil War (1861) - Key strategic location for Union forces.

During the tumultuous days leading up to and following the outbreak of the American Civil War in 1861, the St. Louis Arsenal emerged as a critical strategic location in determining the control of Missouri and the broader Western theater of the war. Situated on the western bank of the Mississippi River, the Arsenal was not only a significant depot for the storage of military arms and ammunition but also a symbol of federal authority in a state deeply divided in its loyalties. Its control was pivotal for both the Union and the Confederacy, as possession would grant significant military advantages in the struggle for the Western territories.

In this period of national crisis, the Arsenal became the focus of intense and delicate maneuvering. The state of Missouri, with its mixed population of Southern sympathizers and Union loyalists, was a borderland of strategic military and political importance. Capturing the St. Louis Arsenal would offer the Confederacy a tremendous boost in resources and a stronghold in the northwest, potentially altering the course of the war. Recognizing this, Union forces, under the command of Captain Nathaniel Lyon, took decisive action in the spring of 1861 to secure the Arsenal from falling into Confederate hands.

Lyon, a staunch Union supporter and a shrewd military leader, orchestrated the movement of thousands of weapons from the Arsenal to safety in Illinois, dramatically reducing the possibility of their seizure by secessionist militias. He then fortified the Arsenal and gathered a force of pro-Union volunteers, effectively thwarting any hopes the Southern sympathizers had of taking control. This decisive action at the St. Louis Arsenal not only safeguarded vital military resources for the Union but also ensured Missouri remained under Union control, significantly influencing the broader strategic landscape of the Civil War. Through these efforts, the St. Louis Arsenal became a linchpin in the Union’s Western operations, a testament to the importance of logistics and military preparedness in the conflict that engulfed the nation.

Famous People From St. Louis

Charles E. Anderson (1919–1994) - Meteorologist and Tuskegee Airman, grew up in St. Louis.

Leon Strauss was a luminary philanthropist and community leader within St. Louis's Jewish community. His life spanned over eight decades, during which he shaped the landscape of charitable giving and communal support in profound ways.

Early Life and Education (1912-1930)  

Born in 1912, in St. Louis, Missouri, Leon Strauss was introduced early to the value of community and philanthropy. Growing up in a family that emphasized the importance of giving back, Strauss was imbued with a strong sense of social responsibility. He pursued his education with a keen interest in business and community development, laying a solid foundation for his future endeavors.

Entrepreneurial Ventures (1931-1945)

After completing his education, Strauss ventured into the business world. He demonstrated a knack for entrepreneurship and innovation, successfully establishing and running a series of businesses. His success in business provided the means for his later philanthropic activities, but even in these early days, Strauss showed a commitment to supporting his local community.

A Pillar in the Community (1946-1960)

As his businesses flourished, Strauss became increasingly involved in St. Louis's Jewish community. His leadership and generosity were evident in his support of various community centers and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of those around him. Strauss was particularly interested in education and healthcare, believing these areas were critical to community well-being.

Philanthropic Endeavors (1961-1975)

By the 1960s, Strauss had emerged as a leading philanthropist in St. Louis. He was instrumental in the founding and funding of several key institutions and programs, including educational scholarships and healthcare facilities. His philanthropy was not confined to the Jewish community; Strauss believed in helping all sectors of society, a principle that guided much of his giving.

Leadership in the Jewish Federation (1976-1985)

Strauss's commitment to his heritage and community led him to take on significant roles within the Jewish Federation of St. Louis. His leadership helped steer the organization through times of both challenge and growth, ensuring it remained a cornerstone of support and advocacy for Jewish people within the city and beyond.

Advocating for Education (1986-1990)

In the latter part of his life, Strauss focused intently on the realm of education. He firmly believed that education was the key to understanding, tolerance, and advancement. Through substantial donations and the establishment of educational funds, he aimed to provide opportunities for young people, regardless of their background.

Promoting Healthcare Initiatives (1991-1995)

Strauss's philanthropic interests also extended deeply into healthcare. He was a major benefactor of hospitals and health services, particularly those serving the underprivileged. His contributions during these years helped improve access to quality healthcare for countless individuals.

Connecting to St. Louis (Throughout Life)

Throughout his life, Strauss's name became synonymous with community growth and philanthropy in St. Louis. He was a driving force behind many initiatives that transformed the city into a more inclusive, educated, and healthy environment. His connection to St. Louis was not just geographical; it was etched in the very fabric of the community.

Final Years and Legacy (1991-1995)

In his final years, Strauss continued his philanthropic efforts, remaining as active as his health allowed. When he passed away in 1995, he left behind a legacy of generous giving, community building, and leadership. Strauss's impact on St. Louis and its Jewish community was indelible, creating ripples that would be felt for generations.

Remembering Leon Strauss (1995 and Beyond)

After his death, Strauss's contributions to the community were widely recognized and celebrated. He is remembered not only for his financial generosity but also for his vision, commitment, and genuine belief in the power of community support and philanthropy.

Key Achievements of Leon Strauss:

• Entrepreneurial success that allowed for significant philanthropic contributions.

• Major benefactor in the realms of education and healthcare in St. Louis.

• Leadership roles within the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, enhancing community support and advocacy.

• Establishment of numerous scholarships and funds to provide educational opportunities.

• Significant contributions to the development and support of healthcare facilities and services.

Leon Strauss lived a life marked by commitment to his community and philanthropy. Through his entrepreneurial success, he was able to contribute significantly to various sectors in St. Louis, particularly in education and healthcare. His leadership within the Jewish community and beyond served as an inspiration to many, leaving a legacy that continues to benefit the city and its residents. Strauss's life is a testament to the impact one individual can have on their community through dedication, vision, and generosity.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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