All Aboard to Webster Groves

The Union Pacific Railway carved the path of St. Louis suburbs through the beautiful Midwest countryside. “Leaders of St. Louis secured a Missouri charter in 1849 for the Pacific Railroad to extend "from St. Louis to the western boundary of Missouri and thence to the Pacific Ocean." The "ground breaking celebration" was held on the July 4, 1851.”  The railroad system was more than just transportation, it symbolized the American dream: commerce, land, and freedom. In 1851 the railroad began weaving westward from St. Louis, landing in the state capital Jefferson City by 1855. Among the way, the Webster Groves stop was built in 1853 along today’s Gore Avenue.

The new station was built to accommodate traffic for the Webster College for Boys, today’s Edgewood Children’s center, established by Reverend Artemus Bullard. The school attracted St. Louis businessmen as real estate investors and the area began to boom. As more commuters moved in to take advantage of the rail system, the neighborhood adapted to the needs of the community, establishing the Webster Groves Business District down Lockwood Avenue near the new station.

Now referred to as “Old Webster”, the streets thrive with unique restaurants and shops and serves as a popular attraction for the local community to spend afternoons perusing. 

Founded by those with a strong affinity for education, good location and a strong sense of community, Webster Groves has been reputed as an affluent St. Louis County suburb since it  became recognized by Congress in 1842. The Webster Groves School District, consistently rated among the best in the Missouri, and Webster University contribute strongly to the area’s promotion of education and are strong indicators of the thriving district. All of the original qualities which attracted newcomers over 160 years ago, still attract investors today.

Written by Ciara Brewer and Photographed by Rachel Broaddus on behalf of Monica Brewer