Lafayette Park

Lafayette Park, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a historic urban park with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Established in 1836 and dedicated in 1851, it holds the distinction of being the first public park in St. Louis and is considered by many historians to be the oldest urban park west of the Mississippi River.

Spanning 30 acres, Lafayette Park is situated in the Lafayette Square neighborhood, bounded by Lafayette Avenue, Mississippi Avenue, Missouri Avenue, and Park Avenue. The park features a blend of natural landscapes and man-made structures that reflect its Victorian-era origins and subsequent developments.

At the heart of the park lies a picturesque lake, which serves as a focal point for visitors and provides habitat for various bird species. Surrounding the lake are well-maintained walking paths that meander through the park, offering visitors serene strolls under mature shade trees. These paths follow the park's gently undulating topography, creating an engaging landscape experience.

Lafayette Park boasts several historical elements that add to its character. An ornate iron fence and gates, much of which are original, encircle the park. Two notable statues grace the grounds: one commemorating Senator Thomas Hart Benton, erected in 1868, and another honoring George Washington, installed in 1869. These statues are considered significant as they were among the first public monuments erected west of the Mississippi.

The park's history is marked by both development and restoration. A devastating tornado in 1896 destroyed much of the park's vegetation and structures, but swift efforts were made to restore it. Over the years, various features have been added or renovated, including the Park House (built in 1867 as a police substation), the Betsy Cook Pavilion (a rebuilt gazebo), and the Kern Lakeside Pavilion (formerly a Mediterranean-style boathouse constructed in 1908).

In the northwest corner of the park, visitors will find a multi-purpose athletic field, which is used for various recreational activities, including vintage baseball games played according to 19th-century rules. The park also includes a playground area featuring modern equipment and unique elements like a 20-30 foot climbing net.

Lafayette Park continues to serve as a central gathering place for the community, hosting events, weddings, and providing a peaceful retreat within the urban environment. Its historical significance is recognized by its inclusion in the Lafayette Square Historic District, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.