Just before the turn of the 20th century, the population of St. Louis began to move more westward toward the Mississippi River, and that part of St. Louis today is known as Grand Center. Also today, St. Louis University sits midtown adjacent to Grand Center. All along the Grand Blvd. you will find amazing old mansions built in the traditional style. Grand Center sprang to life with hospitals, pharmacies, shops, and churches; so many churches, in fact, that it would eventually become known as Piety Hill.



In the first two decades of the 20th century, Grand Center became a hot spot for theater and vaudeville as many homeowners flocked west to this brand new community in St. Louis. Unfortunately, many of the original mansions were destroyed and construction of offices and theater took place. Many of the theaters include the Odeon (1904), the Princess (1912), the Victoria (1913), the Grand Central (1913), and the Empress (1913).

Starting after the 1920's the Center began to thrive even more, despite the ravages of the Great Depression and World War II. Not only does the theater thrive, but Grand Central became a transportation hub as a major stop on streetcar and bus routes. Great movie palaces also sprung up in the 20's and this brought even more commerce to Grand Center. Great movie palaces included the Missouri Theater (1921), the St. Louis Theater (1926), and the Fox Theater (1929).

After 1950, and straight through 1980, Grand Center saw a surprising decline. As the urban population began to decline, people began to move out of urban places like Grand Center. People began to go to the theater and movies less frequently, and many of these theaters were eventually torn-down or turned into different venues.

It wasn't until 1980 that Grand Center saw its much anticipated revival. It was when Grand Center was classified as a National Historic District that funding was acquired and the beautifully renovated Fox Theater was reopened for business. The Sheldon Concert Hall reopened as well.

Grand Center Inc. was established in 1987 to overlook the revival of Grand Center, and the arts, entertainment, and education district truly came to life. With the years some tremendous improvements were made to the infrastructure, improving the lighting, sidewalks, and parking facilities. Buildings were restored and 25 arts and education organizations became the mainstay of Grand Center. It's no wonder that today Grand Center is the 12th largest attraction of St. Louis.

Today Grand Center is a fantastic place for personal and private investment, and continues to grow with each passing year. The educational and artistic achievements include great architecture, with buildings of various styles and types. Thomas P. Barnett's great Spanish Mission style art deco building is definitely a highlight at 3207 Washington Ave.