|
Picture of the day -
March 18, 2006
The Gateway Arch - St. Louis, Missouri
Photo courtesy of Dale Allen.
America is known for her world-famous landmarks, and one of the most famous of
all is featured in today's picture: The magnificent Gateway Arch in St.
Louis, Missouri.
In 1804, President Thomas Jefferson sent the famous explorers Lewis & Clark from
St. Louis to chart the land and waterways of the Louisiana Territory. Their
expedition was instrumental in the rapid westward expansion of the United States
into the newly acquired territory. To commemorate the completion of Jefferson's
Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis & Clark expedition, the decision was made to
construct a spectacular monument on the bank of the Mississippi River in St.
Louis.
A nationwide competition for the best design for the monument was held in
1947-48, and architect Eero Saarinen's beautiful "Gateway Arch" design was
selected over the many other entries. The Arch's ground-breaking ceremony was
held on February 12, 1963, and on October 28, 1965 it was finally completed at a
total cost of slightly less than $15 million.
Recognizing its historical and cultural significance (not to mention its
spectacular beauty), most first-time visitors to St. Louis make visiting the
Gateway Arch a top priority. And since it is the nation's tallest man-made
monument at a towering 630 feet, it is very easy to find!
Visitors can take one of two trams up to the Observation Area near the
top of the Arch for a breathtaking view of St. Louis and the countryside beyond
- up to 30 miles on a clear day in fact!
Today, the Gateway Arch is recognized around the world as the crown jewel of the
city of St. Louis - the Gateway to the West. It is also a beloved
national treasure that all proud Americans should visit at least once during
their lifetime.
Picture Of The Day Homepage |
Submit
a photo
More Interesting Articles
|
|
|