Forest Park Live Cam
A public park in western St. Louis, Missouri
History
Forest Park in St. Louis, Missouri, has a rich and fascinating history. It is one of the largest urban parks in the United States and has been an integral part of the city's cultural, recreational, and educational landscape for over a century. Here is a brief overview of Forest Park's history:
Acquisition and Early Development: Forest Park's story begins in 1874 when the City of St. Louis purchased the land for $849,058, comprising approximately 1,371 acres. The park was designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, known for his work on New York City's Central Park. Olmsted's vision aimed to create a natural oasis within the urban environment.
Hosting the 1904 World's Fair: One of the park's most significant events was the Louisiana Purchase Exposition, also known as the 1904 World's Fair. It celebrated the centennial of the Louisiana Purchase and showcased technological advancements and cultural exhibits from around the world. Many iconic structures were built for the fair, including the Palace of Fine Arts (now the Saint Louis Art Museum) and the Festival Hall (now the Missouri History Museum).