It might surprise a nation that knows St. Louis best for its smoky music, cold beer, and winning sports teams to learn that we have always cared as much or more for other things. Of course, we are proud of our contributions to Americas vices and other recreations, but our Midwestern honesty requires us to note that St. Louis has also produced proudly more bricks and books than most other cities.
Under the Arch: St. Louis Stories ~ edited by Paul Thiel, Foreward by Francis G. Slay, Mayor of St. Louis, 2004, stories, 242 pages
When I read the first sentence, I was caught up in the book. I was on page 12 before I stopped reading and came back to composing this blog post. Do you see the sub-sub-title at the bottom of the cover? It says, "Glimpses of Life in the Gateway City." The place is known around here (and in its advertising) as the place folks gathered when people living in the eastern part of the United States started moving into the "wild, wild West." They often went through St. Louis, which was a sort of jumping-off point, a point from which to start their journey to a new life, a new place. The Arch represents that point or gateway.
I bet this book is full of gems. I have never been to St. Louis, but perhaps someday. I hope you enjoy reading this one! Have a great weekend, Bonnie.
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