Lockwood and Gore Avenues

by Christy K. Thompson

When she wrote her History of Webster Groves in 1976, author Clarissa Start called it simply, “a very special place.”While Start may be guilty of gross understatement, her quiet yet gracious description is indicative of the city itself. For more than a century, Webster Groves has maintained its reputation as one of St. Louis’ most unique and most desirable neighborhoods.

It’s notable, in part, for what it lacks. It boasts no late-night dance clubs, no giant cine-plexes and no mega shopping malls. Instead, it offers a thriving business district, numerous cultural opportunities, eclectic shopping and beautiful, tree-lined streets with historic homes perfect for singles, couples or burgeoning young families.

Webster Groves is a small town that feels like a respite from the rest of the world. For many people, the “hub” of the city lies at the intersection of Lockwood and Gore avenues, in an area known for its distinctive boutiques, old-time craftsmen and relaxed restaurants. Now, thanks to the work of area residential, civic and merchant groups, Webster is experiencing a type of renaissance. Improved parking, new restaurants and shops are bringing first-time visitors to the area while reaffirming the loyalty of longtime residents and devotees.

The history of Webster Groves is as impressive as its tree-lined streets. It all began in 1802, when Gregorie Sarpy, a Frenchman who married into the Chouteau family, was granted 6,002 acres of heavily forested land by the Spanish colonial government. In 1842, Sarpy’s son inherited 360 acres on the north side of the property, while Pierre Chouteau Jr. received 1,640 acres to the south. The dividing line between the two holdings is now known as Lockwood Avenue.

The small town’s location on the ever-expanding Pacific Railroad line led to its growth as a suburb. The original train platform was located on what is now Gore Avenue. Following the Civil War, overcrowding, congestion and unhealthy conditions in St. Louis prompted city dwellers to build summer retreats in the area. In 1892, developers began to promote “Webster Park” – an affluent community that would become the City of Webster Groves – as the “Queen of the Suburbs.” The community’s maple, oak and elm trees have earned recognition from Tree City USA, and more than 300 of its homes are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The residents and merchants of Webster Groves are a close-knit group that cherishes the history and small-town feel of their community. At Ageless Rug Treasures on Gore Avenue, owner Matt Bay says that it’s a great feeling to come to work each day in an area that benefits from both a rich history and the devoted and energetic residents and business people.

“Locating my shop here in Webster was an easy decision,” Bay explains. “I would rather be working in this beautiful, historic area than in a strip mall with no character or individuality.”

Bay says that much of the charm of Webster’s business district is due to the loyalty of the patrons. “The residents of Webster and Kirkwood truly go out of their way to shop at our stores,” Bay marvels. “I often have people tell me that when they are looking for an item, they always shop Webster first.”

And that loyalty is contagious. More and more visitors from West County, South County and beyond are discovering Webster Groves for its combination of the hip and historical. Kerry Thornton and Patty Sickel have owned their shop Apple of Your Eye, on Gore Avenue, for 23 years. “The area has a unique ambiance,” Thornton explains. “It’s what attracted us to the Gore- Lockwood intersection in the first place, and it’s what draws loyal shoppers and first-time visitors from so many diverse areas.”

Thornton admits that the area has seen its ups and downs, but she is quick to add that in recent years, the work of chamber and residential groups, trade associations and city fathers has resulted in huge improvements in the business district. “Our streets have been repaired, parking has been improved, and many of the old storefronts and apartment buildings have been completely rehabbed,” Thornton points out. “Seeing the care and attention lavished on our block gives us a renewed sense of pride that really carries through to our customers.”

In addition to attracting new customers, the renovation and growth of the Lockwood-Gore area have drawn new restaurants as well. Joe Crall, owner of C.J. Muggs, was ahead of the curve when he opened his restaurant’s second location on Lockwood Avenue 11 years ago. At the time, there were only a handful of restaurants in Webster, and the area still was best known for its past.

“In the last decade, I have noticed tremendous change,” Crall says enthusiastically. “Today there’s more of everything. More great shops, more restaurants and more visitors.” Although Webster Groves has a long tradition of being a “walking town,” Crall says that the pedestrian traffic in the area has grown noticeably. “Webster continues to become more and more vibrant,” he adds. C.J.Muggs not only draws crowds for lunch, but its family- friendly atmosphere makes it a weekend destination as well. In fact, Crall’s business has grown at such a pace that not long ago he doubled the size of his restaurant and added a room for banquets and parties.

Gretchen Floresca, owner and president of Werremeyer Floresca marketing agency, points out that Webster Groves also has “cornered the market” when it comes to hosting memorable special events. The Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival has become an early fall tradition and attracts legions of fans from around the country. The annual Christmas walk brings shoppers out in droves, and the Webster Groves Community Days Parade, held over the July 4 weekend, is a favorite of kids and adults alike.

Thanks to hundreds of dedicated residents and business people, Webster Groves has preserved its historical qualities and added modern twists that make it “a destination” for everyone. With shops and restaurants that hearken back to a different era, a day in Webster Groves feels like a step back to another time. And thanks to its loyal residents, businesses and patrons, its future seems as bright as its past.

BACK TO NETWORK HOME

Yesteryear’s charm is found all along Lockwood Avenue.

A mix of old and new, business and family life, the intersection is at the core of the Webster Groves community.

Buildings in the area have been historically maintained or lovingly restored to show off their unique look.

The intersection is home to retail stores, restaurants and specialty shops.