Welcome to the St Louis Walk of Fame!

The St. Louis Walk of Fame honors notable people from St. Louis, Missouri, who made contributions to the culture of the United States. All inductees were either born in the Greater St. Louis area or spent their formative or creative years there.

The 150+ stars are located along 6 blocks of The Delmar Loop – designated “One of the 10 Great Streets in America” by the American Planning Association.

Sculptor Harry Weber Induction Ceremony

Free to the public

Renowned sculptor of sports icons and historical figures Harry Weber himself will be accepting!

Wednesday, June 21, 2023
11:30 am

A live ragtime band starts playing at 11:00 am

In front of Peacock Diner at 6261 Delmar in The Loop

About Harry Weber

Born: June 11, 1942

St. Louisan Harry Weber’s larger-than-life bronze sculptures of famous sports and historical figures grace stadiums and public spaces across the US, China, and Africa. His expressive sculptures give the sense that the figures are actually in motion with a fluidity that captures the emotional vitality of the moment. He vividly brought to life everyone he depicted whether it was the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame baseball players in action, Boston Bruins hockey icon Bobby Orr exuberantly flying across the ice after a Cup-winning goal, Chuck Berry rocking and rolling with his guitar as if right on stage, or the striking portrait of Dred & Harriet Scott outside the courthouse where they began their fight for freedom from slavery.

World Heavyweight Boxing Champions Michael & Leon Spinks Induction Ceremony

Free to the public

World champion boxer Michael Spinks himself will be accepting!

Wednesday, June 26, 2023
11:30 am

A live ragtime band starts playing at 11:00 am

6217 Delmar in The Loop

About Michael & Leon Spinks

Michael Born: July 22, 1956 Leon Born: July 11, 1953

St. Louis-born boxers Michael and Leon Spinks made history in 1976 as the first brothers to win Olympic gold medals in the same year. They later became the first brothers to win the world heavyweight championship as pros. In 1981 Michael won the WBA light heavyweight title and in 1983 began his reign as the undisputed world light heavyweight champion. He moved up to the heavyweight class in 1985 and won the world heavyweight championship. Powered by his “Spinks Jinx” dynamite right hand, he won 31 of 32 fights, 21 by knockout. Leon Spinks, in just his 8th pro fight, became the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world in 1978. His defeat of Muhammad Ali for the crown was one of the most monumental upsets in boxing history.

Maya Angelou, born Marguerite Johnson in St. Louis, was raised in segregated rural Arkansas.

Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou, born Marguerite Johnson in St. Louis, was raised in segregated rural Arkansas.

The only boxer to hold world titles in three weight classes simultaneously, Henry Armstrong moved to St. Louis as a young boy and was an honor student at Vashon High School.

Henry Armstrong

The only boxer to hold world titles in three weight classes simultaneously, Henry Armstrong moved to St. Louis as a young boy and was an honor student at Vashon High School.

As a child in St. Louis, Josephine Baker rummaged for coal behind Union Station and for food behind Soulard Market.

Josephine Baker

As a child in St. Louis, Josephine Baker rummaged for coal behind Union Station and for food behind Soulard Market.

Actor Scott Bakula was born in St. Louis and graduated from Kirkwood High in 1973.

Scott Bakula

Actor Scott Bakula was born in St. Louis and graduated from Kirkwood High in 1973.

Fontella Bass, daughter of gospel great Martha Bass, was born and raised in St. Louis.

Fontella Bass

Fontella Bass, daughter of gospel great Martha Bass, was born and raised in St. Louis.

Mel Bay bought his first guitar at age thirteen, taught himself to play and was performing publicly within a few months.

Mel Bay

Mel Bay bought his first guitar at age thirteen, taught himself to play and was performing publicly within a few months.

Major league baseball was closed to blacks until 1947, relegating some of the game’s best players to the Negro Leagues.

Cool Papa Bell

Major league baseball was closed to blacks until 1947, relegating some of the game’s best players to the Negro Leagues.

Thomas Hart Benton moved to St. Louis in 1815 and became one of the city’s leading citizens.

Thomas Hart Benton

Thomas Hart Benton moved to St. Louis in 1815 and became one of the city’s leading citizens.

Lawrence Peter Berra grew up on Elizabeth Street in the St. Louis neighborhood called The Hill.

Yogi Berra

Lawrence Peter Berra grew up on Elizabeth Street in the St. Louis neighborhood called The Hill.

Hailed as “The Father of Rock and Roll,” Chuck Berry’s signature guitar work, poetic songwriting and inspired showmanship have influenced every Rock and Roll musician to follow him.

Chuck Berry

Hailed as “The Father of Rock and Roll,” Chuck Berry’s signature guitar work, poetic songwriting and inspired showmanship have influenced every Rock and Roll musician to follow him.

The average poor child in 1860s St. Louis completed three years of school before being forced to begin work at age 10.

Susan Blow

The average poor child in 1860s St. Louis completed three years of school before being forced to begin work at age 10.

Soprano Christine Brewer began her career singing in the choruses of the St. Louis Symphony and Opera Theatre of St. Louis.

Christine Brewer

Soprano Christine Brewer began her career singing in the choruses of the St. Louis Symphony and Opera Theatre of St. Louis.

The greatest base stealer of his era, St. Louis Cardinal Louis Clark Brock was only the 14th player to have 3,000 hits.

Lou Brock

The greatest base stealer of his era, St. Louis Cardinal Louis Clark Brock was only the 14th player to have 3,000 hits.

Robert S. Brookings moved from Maryland to St. Louis in 1867 to take a job as a clerk and became one of the city’s most successful businessmen.

Robert S. Brookings

Robert S. Brookings moved from Maryland to St. Louis in 1867 to take a job as a clerk and became one of the city’s most successful businessmen.

John Francis Buck joined Harry Caray in 1954 to announce St. Louis Cardinals baseball games.

Jack Buck

John Francis Buck joined Harry Caray in 1954 to announce St. Louis Cardinals baseball games.

Grace Ann Bumbry grew up at 1703 Goode Ave. in St. Louis.

Grace Bumbry

Grace Ann Bumbry grew up at 1703 Goode Ave. in St. Louis.

T Bone Burnett was born in St. Louis and grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, where he began making records in 1965.

T Bone Burnett

T Bone Burnett was born in St. Louis and grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, where he began making records in 1965.

Born at 4664 Pershing Ave., William Burroughs attended Community School and John Burroughs School.

William Burroughs

Born at 4664 Pershing Ave., William Burroughs attended Community School and John Burroughs School.

Born Harry Christopher Carabina, he grew up at 1909 LaSalle St. in St. Louis and attended Dewey School and Webster Groves High School.

Harry Caray

Born Harry Christopher Carabina, he grew up at 1909 LaSalle St. in St. Louis and attended Dewey School and Webster Groves High School.

Katherine O’Flaherty, a member of one of St. Louis’ oldest families, attended the St. Louis Academy of the Sacred Heart.

Kate Chopin

Katherine O’Flaherty, a member of one of St. Louis’ oldest families, attended the St. Louis Academy of the Sacred Heart.

Born René Auguste Chouteau in New Orleans, he was raised by his stepfather, Pierre Laclède, and his mother, Marie Thérèse Chouteau.

Auguste Chouteau

Born René Auguste Chouteau in New Orleans, he was raised by his stepfather, Pierre Laclède, and his mother, Marie Thérèse Chouteau.

After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, Thomas Jefferson asked William Clark and Meriwether Lewis to explore the newly-acquired but uncharted northwest.

William Clark

After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, Thomas Jefferson asked William Clark and Meriwether Lewis to explore the newly-acquired but uncharted northwest.

A native St. Louisan, William L. Clay graduated from St. Louis University in 1953 before serving in the army.

William “Bill” Clay

A native St. Louisan, William L. Clay graduated from St. Louis University in 1953 before serving in the army.

Andy Cohen in a suit and tie holding a microphone while onstage at his late night talk show, Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. The image is turquoise and white.

Andy Cohen

St. Louis native Andy Cohen, best known as the host and executive producer of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Bravo TV’s live late night talk show, also executive produced “The Real Housewives” franchise and hosted its reunion specials.

Barry Commoner joined the faculty of Washington University in St. Louis in 1947.

Barry Commoner

Barry Commoner joined the faculty of Washington University in St. Louis in 1947.

Arthur Holly Compton, a science prodigy, built and flew a glider at age 18. In 1920 he became a professor and head of the physics department at Washington University.

Arthur Holly Compton

Arthur Holly Compton, a science prodigy, built and flew a glider at age 18. In 1920 he became a professor and head of the physics department at Washington University.

A fiery left-hander known for his two-fisted backhand, Jimmy Connors grew up in East St. Louis and Belleville, Illinois.

Jimmy Connors

A fiery left-hander known for his two-fisted backhand, Jimmy Connors grew up in East St. Louis and Belleville, Illinois.

Carl Ferdinand Cori and Gerty Theresa Radnitz earned medical degrees from the German University of Prague in 1920 and married later that year.

Carl & Gerti Cori

Carl Ferdinand Cori and Gerty Theresa Radnitz earned medical degrees from the German University of Prague in 1920 and married later that year.

At age 22, Bob Costas joined kmox radio in 1974 to announce St. Louis Spirits basketball games.

Bob Costas

At age 22, Bob Costas joined kmox radio in 1974 to announce St. Louis Spirits basketball games.

Already nicknamed “Senator” at Country Day High School, St. Louisan John Danforth was elected Missouri’s Attorney General in 1968.

John Danforth

Already nicknamed “Senator” at Country Day High School, St. Louisan John Danforth was elected Missouri’s Attorney General in 1968.

Grandson of the founder of Ralston-Purina, William Danforth took his family’s deep belief in education and public service to heart.

William Danforth

Grandson of the founder of Ralston-Purina, William Danforth took his family’s deep belief in education and public service to heart.

The founder of tennis’ Davis Cup, Dwight Davis was born in St. Louis. He was one of his era’s best players and won several titles while at Harvard.

Dwight Davis

The founder of tennis’ Davis Cup, Dwight Davis was born in St. Louis. He was one of his era’s best players and won several titles while at Harvard.

The year after his birth in Alton, Illinois, Miles Davis moved to East St. Louis.

Miles Davis

The year after his birth in Alton, Illinois, Miles Davis moved to East St. Louis.

Known for his homespun wit and good-natured bravado, Jay Hanna “Dizzy” Dean was perhaps the most colorful member of the Cardinals’ famed “Gas House Gang.”

Dizzy Dean

Known for his homespun wit and good-natured bravado, Jay Hanna “Dizzy” Dean was perhaps the most colorful member of the Cardinals’ famed “Gas House Gang.”

One of the greatest offensive tackles of all time, Dan Dierdorf was an All-American at the University of Michigan before joining the St. Louis Cardinals in 1971.

Dan Dierdorf

One of the greatest offensive tackles of all time, Dan Dierdorf was an All-American at the University of Michigan before joining the St. Louis Cardinals in 1971.

Born Phyllis Ada Driver, she combined wild costumes, untamed hair and a raucous laugh with self-deprecating monologues to create one of comedy’s most popular characters.

Phyllis Diller

Born Phyllis Ada Driver, she combined wild costumes, untamed hair and a raucous laugh with self-deprecating monologues to create one of comedy’s most popular characters.

A green-tinted black and white portrait of Edward A. Doisy. He is wearing glasses and a suit and tie.

Edward A. Doisy

Biochemist Edward A. Doisy won the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine in 1943 for his work determining the chemical structure of Vitamin K.

Born in Grenoble, France, Rose Philippine Duchesne was drawn to a life of religious service.

St Philipine Duchesne

Born in Grenoble, France, Rose Philippine Duchesne was drawn to a life of religious service.

While studying anthropology at the University of Chicago, Katherine Dunham was also active as a dancer.

Katherine Dunham

While studying anthropology at the University of Chicago, Katherine Dunham was also active as a dancer.

Actor Robert Duvall attended high school at The Principia in St. Louis and graduated from nearby Principia College in 1953.

Robert Duvall

Actor Robert Duvall attended high school at The Principia in St. Louis and graduated from nearby Principia College in 1953.

The great Mississippi River bridge which bears his name is the best known of this self-educated genius’ achievements.

James B Eads

The great Mississippi River bridge which bears his name is the best known of this self-educated genius’ achievements.

Raised at 4608 Tower Grove Place, Thomas Eagleton was only 27 when elected St. Louis Circuit Attorney.

Thomas Eagleton

Raised at 4608 Tower Grove Place, Thomas Eagleton was only 27 when elected St. Louis Circuit Attorney.

A revolutionary designer, Charles Eames was born in St. Louis and studied architecture at Washington University.

Charles Eames

A revolutionary designer, Charles Eames was born in St. Louis and studied architecture at Washington University.

An inspiring educator, Gerald Early was appointed the Merle Kling Professor of Modern Letters in English and served as Director of Washington University’s Center for the Humanities, the American Culture Studies Program, and the African and African American Studies Program.

Gerald Early

An inspiring educator, Gerald Early was appointed the Merle Kling Professor of Modern Letters in English and served as Director of Washington University’s Center for the Humanities, the American Culture Studies Program, and the African and African American Studies Program.

Buddy Ebsen gained worldwide fame in the 1960s as Jed Clampett, the central character on The Beverly Hillbillies, one of the most popular comedy series in television history.

Buddy Ebsen

Buddy Ebsen gained worldwide fame in the 1960s as Jed Clampett, the central character on The Beverly Hillbillies, one of the most popular comedy series in television history.

The grandson of the founder of Washington University, T.S. Eliot was born in St. Louis and attended Smith Academy here.

T.S. Eliot

The grandson of the founder of Washington University, T.S. Eliot was born in St. Louis and attended Smith Academy here.

Coming to St. Louis in 1834 to found a Unitarian church, minister William Greenleaf Eliot devoted his life to improving his adopted city.

William Greenleaf Eliot

Coming to St. Louis in 1834 to found a Unitarian church, minister William Greenleaf Eliot devoted his life to improving his adopted city.

Since his first novel was published in 1964, Stanley Lawrence Elkin’s literary stature has grown unabated.

Stanley Elkin

Since his first novel was published in 1964, Stanley Lawrence Elkin’s literary stature has grown unabated.

A dedicated artist from an early age, St. Louis native Mary Engelbreit sold her first greeting cards to a local store while attending Visitation Academy.

Mary Engelbreit

A dedicated artist from an early age, St. Louis native Mary Engelbreit sold her first greeting cards to a local store while attending Visitation Academy.

Photographer Walker Evans was born in St. Louis in his family home at 4468 McPherson.

Walker Evans

Photographer Walker Evans was born in St. Louis in his family home at 4468 McPherson.

Writer and cartoonist Lee Falk, originally named Leon Harrison Gross, was born and raised in St. Louis.

Lee Falk

Writer and cartoonist Lee Falk, originally named Leon Harrison Gross, was born and raised in St. Louis.

Eugene Field, born at 634 South Broadway in St. Louis, became a reporter for the St. Louis Evening Journal in 1873.

Eugene Field

Eugene Field, born at 634 South Broadway in St. Louis, became a reporter for the St. Louis Evening Journal in 1873.

St. Louis-born singers Billy Davis Jr., LaMonte McLemore and Ron Townson joined with Marilyn McCoo and Florence LaRue to create the lush “champagne soul” sound of The 5th Dimension.

The 5th Dimension

St. Louis-born singers Billy Davis Jr., LaMonte McLemore and Ron Townson joined with Marilyn McCoo and Florence LaRue to create the lush “champagne soul” sound of The 5th Dimension.

Proclaimed “Baseball’s Best Centerfielder” on a 1968 Sports Illustrated cover, three-time All-Star Curtis Charles Flood played 12 seasons for the St. Louis Cardinals.

Curt Flood

Proclaimed “Baseball’s Best Centerfielder” on a 1968 Sports Illustrated cover, three-time All-Star Curtis Charles Flood played 12 seasons for the St. Louis Cardinals.

Redd Foxx starred in Sanford and Son, one of television’s most popular comedy series in the 1970s.

Redd Foxx

Redd Foxx starred in Sanford and Son, one of television’s most popular comedy series in the 1970s.

David Rowland Francis came to St. Louis in 1866 and graduated from Washington University in 1870.

David Francis

David Rowland Francis came to St. Louis in 1866 and graduated from Washington University in 1870.

Frankie Muse Freeman began a celebrated legal career that spanned 60 years when she opened a private practice in St. Louis in 1949.

Frankie Muse Freeman

Frankie Muse Freeman began a celebrated legal career that spanned 60 years when she opened a private practice in St. Louis in 1949.

Joseph Henry Garagiola grew up on Elizabeth Street in the St. Louis neighborhood called The Hill.

Joe Garagiola

Joseph Henry Garagiola grew up on Elizabeth Street in the St. Louis neighborhood called The Hill.

Moving to St. Louis at age 14, David Garroway attended University City High School and Washington University.

Dave Garroway

Moving to St. Louis at age 14, David Garroway attended University City High School and Washington University.

A consummate author with a philosopher’s training, William Gass joined the Washington University faculty in 1969 and received an endowed chair in 1979.

William Gass

A consummate author with a philosopher’s training, William Gass joined the Washington University faculty in 1969 and received an endowed chair in 1979.

Martha Gellhorn grew up at 4366 McPherson in St. Louis and graduated from John Burroughs in 1926.

Martha Gellhorn

Martha Gellhorn grew up at 4366 McPherson in St. Louis and graduated from John Burroughs in 1926.

A turquoise-tinted black and white portrait of Edna Gellhorn. Her hair is softly up in a braid on the top of her head. She has a small smile and she is wearing a black dress or blouse with a few sequins.

Edna Gellhorn

Women’s suffrage movement leader Edna Gellhorn helped found the National League of Women Voters.

Robert Gibson, once a Harlem Globetrotter, pitched for the St. Louis Cardinals from 1959 until he retired in 1975.

Bob Gibson

Robert Gibson, once a Harlem Globetrotter, pitched for the St. Louis Cardinals from 1959 until he retired in 1975.

A native son of Affton in St. Louis County, John Goodman studied drama at Southwest Missouri State and later made his mark with distinctive, often hilarious character performances in films such as True Stories and Raising Arizona.

John Goodman

A native son of Affton in St. Louis County, John Goodman studied drama at Southwest Missouri State and later made his mark with distinctive, often hilarious character performances in films such as True Stories and Raising Arizona.

Betty Grable was born at 3858 Lafayette Ave. in St. Louis and moved to the Forest Park Hotel in 1920.

Betty Grable

Betty Grable was born at 3858 Lafayette Ave. in St. Louis and moved to the Forest Park Hotel in 1920.

One of the 20th century’s most prominent surgeons, Evarts A. Graham chaired the Department of Surgery at Washington University from 1919 to 1951.

Evarts Graham

One of the 20th century’s most prominent surgeons, Evarts A. Graham chaired the Department of Surgery at Washington University from 1919 to 1951.

Upon graduating from West Point in 1843, U.S. Grant was assigned to Jefferson Barracks, near St. Louis.

Ulysses S. Grant

Upon graduating from West Point in 1843, U.S. Grant was assigned to Jefferson Barracks, near St. Louis.

Born in St. Louis, Dick Gregory grew up at 1803 N. Taylor Ave. shining shoes to help feed his family.

Dick Gregory

Born in St. Louis, Dick Gregory grew up at 1803 N. Taylor Ave. shining shoes to help feed his family.

Documentary filmmaker Charles Guggenheim started his first production company in St. Louis in 1954.

Charles Guggenheim

Documentary filmmaker Charles Guggenheim started his first production company in St. Louis in 1954.

An actor who defied racial stereotypes, Robert Guillaume grew up in downtown St. Louis and studied music at Washington University.

Robert Guillaume

An actor who defied racial stereotypes, Robert Guillaume grew up in downtown St. Louis and studied music at Washington University.

Hampton’s signature work was the award-winning documentary series Eyes on the Prize I and II (1987 and 1990), a definitive history of the civil rights movement.

Henry Hampton

Hampton’s signature work was the award-winning documentary series Eyes on the Prize I and II (1987 and 1990), a definitive history of the civil rights movement.

Walker Hancock

Born and raised in St. Louis, Walker Hancock graduated from Central High School in 1917.

Growing up in University City and attending John Burroughs School, John Hartford was drawn to river life and the music of the banjo and fiddle.

John Hartford

Growing up in University City and attending John Burroughs School, John Hartford was drawn to river life and the music of the banjo and fiddle.

Soul singer Donny Hathaway grew up in St. Louis and graduated from Vashon High in 1963.

Donny Hathaway

Soul singer Donny Hathaway grew up in St. Louis and graduated from Vashon High in 1963.

Beloved Cardinal manager Dorrel “Whitey” Herzog enjoyed a solid eight-year playing career from 1956 to 1963, but in his own words, “Baseball has been good to me since I quit trying to play it.”

Whitey Herzog

Beloved Cardinal manager Dorrel “Whitey” Herzog enjoyed a solid eight-year playing career from 1956 to 1963, but in his own words, “Baseball has been good to me since I quit trying to play it.”

Albert Hirschfeld was born in a house on Kensington Avenue in St. Louis. His family moved to New York when he was 12 and by age 18 he was artistic director at Selznick Pictures.

Albert Hirschfeld

Albert Hirschfeld was born in a house on Kensington Avenue in St. Louis. His family moved to New York when he was 12 and by age 18 he was artistic director at Selznick Pictures.

Actor William Holden was born near St. Louis in O’Fallon, Illinois.

William Holden

Actor William Holden was born near St. Louis in O’Fallon, Illinois.

Baseball’s greatest right-handed hitter, Rogers Hornsby was the cornerstone of the Cardinals’ first winning era.

Rogers Hornsby

Baseball’s greatest right-handed hitter, Rogers Hornsby was the cornerstone of the Cardinals’ first winning era.

Born in St. Louis, Aaron Edward Hotchner grew up in the Westgate Hotel at Delmar and Kingshighway, and attended Soldan High School.

A. E. Hotchner

Born in St. Louis, Aaron Edward Hotchner grew up in the Westgate Hotel at Delmar and Kingshighway, and attended Soldan High School.

A purple-tinted black and white photo of baseball player Elston Howard warming up for a game at Yankee stadium in 1965. He is wearing a Yankee uniform and hat.

Elston Howard

In 1963 Elston Howard made history as the first African-American baseball player to be named the American League’s Most Valuable Player. He was a six-time World Series champion with the Yankees, four as a player and two as a coach, and the team later honored him by retiring his number.

Born in Independence, Kansas, William Inge taught at Stephens College before coming to St. Louis as the Star-Times drama critic in 1943.

William Inge

Born in Independence, Kansas, William Inge taught at Stephens College before coming to St. Louis as the Star-Times drama critic in 1943.

After winning the 1967 ncaa golf championship, Hale Irwin turned pro in 1968 and later settled in St. Louis.

Hale Irwin

After winning the 1967 ncaa golf championship, Hale Irwin turned pro in 1968 and later settled in St. Louis.

Isley Brothers

Isley Brothers

Starting with their 1959 hit “Shout,” the Isley Brothers appeared on the Billboard charts for an incredible seven consecutive decades. Their other hits include the 1962 classic “Twist & Shout,” the 1969 Grammy-winner “It’s Your Thing,” and the 1975 anthem “Fight the Power.” Ronald and Ernie Isley moved to St. Louis in 1998. They released […]

Unhappy with the prison–like schools of his youth, St. Louis-born architect William B. Ittner devoted his life to improving education through better school design.

William B. Ittner

Unhappy with the prison–like schools of his youth, St. Louis-born architect William B. Ittner devoted his life to improving education through better school design.

Self–taught pianist Johnnie Johnson settled in St. Louis in 1952 and formed the Sir John Trio.

Johnnie Johnson

Self–taught pianist Johnnie Johnson settled in St. Louis in 1952 and formed the Sir John Trio.

In the 1880s and 90s, as ragtime music evolved from the African rhythms of its creators’ heritage, its greatest composer, Scott Joplin, was often in St. Louis, playing piano in the bawdy houses and saloons of Market and Chestnut streets.

Scott Joplin

In the 1880s and 90s, as ragtime music evolved from the African rhythms of its creators’ heritage, its greatest composer, Scott Joplin, was often in St. Louis, playing piano in the bawdy houses and saloons of Market and Chestnut streets.

The greatest female athlete of the 20th century, Jackie Joyner-Kersee grew up in East St. Louis and was a two-sport All-American at Lincoln High.

Jackie Joyner-Kersee

The greatest female athlete of the 20th century, Jackie Joyner-Kersee grew up in East St. Louis and was a two-sport All-American at Lincoln High.

Brought to St. Louis in 1847 by her slave owners, Elizabeth Keckley honed her skills as a dressmaker and was able to buy her freedom in 1855.

Elizabeth Keckley

Brought to St. Louis in 1847 by her slave owners, Elizabeth Keckley honed her skills as a dressmaker and was able to buy her freedom in 1855.

Born Albert Nelson, he was a farm laborer who became a premier blues guitarist. Self-taught, first on a one-string “diddley-bow” and then on a guitar he made from a cigar box, King played left-handed and upside down.

Albert King

Born Albert Nelson, he was a farm laborer who became a premier blues guitarist. Self-taught, first on a one-string “diddley-bow” and then on a guitar he made from a cigar box, King played left-handed and upside down.

A St. Louis native and Priory School graduate, Kevin Kline won Tony Awards for On the Twentieth Century and The Pirates of Penzance before leading roles in Sophie’s Choice (1982) and The Big Chill (1983) made him a Hollywood star.

Kevin Kline

A St. Louis native and Priory School graduate, Kevin Kline won Tony Awards for On the Twentieth Century and The Pirates of Penzance before leading roles in Sophie’s Choice (1982) and The Big Chill (1983) made him a Hollywood star.

Berkeley High graduate Cedric the Entertainer Kyles first performed stand-up comedy at a St. Louis open mic night.

Cedric “The Entertainer” Kyles

Berkeley High graduate Cedric the Entertainer Kyles first performed stand-up comedy at a St. Louis open mic night.

French-born Pierre Laclède Liguest arrived in New Orleans in 1755.

Pierre Laclede

French-born Pierre Laclède Liguest arrived in New Orleans in 1755.

Broadway producer Rocco Landesman was born and raised in St. Louis, where his family owned the Crystal Palace, a Gaslight Square cabaret that featured cutting edge theater and performers.

Rocco Landesman

Broadway producer Rocco Landesman was born and raised in St. Louis, where his family owned the Crystal Palace, a Gaslight Square cabaret that featured cutting edge theater and performers.

In 1938, two years after graduating from the University of Turin, Italian neurobiologist Rita Levi-Montalcini was forced to continue her research in a makeshift bedroom lab because Fascist laws barred Jews from academic careers.

Rita Levi-Montalcini

In 1938, two years after graduating from the University of Turin, Italian neurobiologist Rita Levi-Montalcini was forced to continue her research in a makeshift bedroom lab because Fascist laws barred Jews from academic careers.

One of the finest fliers of his time, Charles Lindbergh was the chief pilot for the first St. Louis-to-Chicago airmail route, in April 1926.

Charles Lindbergh

One of the finest fliers of his time, Charles Lindbergh was the chief pilot for the first St. Louis-to-Chicago airmail route, in April 1926.

One of the city’s greatest architects, German-born Theodore Link came to St. Louis in 1873.

Theodore Link

One of the city’s greatest architects, German-born Theodore Link came to St. Louis in 1873.

Elijah Parish Lovejoy, a Presbyterian minister and editor of the St. Louis Observer, believed that slavery was a sin.

Elijah Lovejoy

Elijah Parish Lovejoy, a Presbyterian minister and editor of the St. Louis Observer, believed that slavery was a sin.

A loyal native whose mother allowed him to choose any college that was “Catholic and in St. Louis,” Ed Macauley led the Saint Louis University basketball team to the 1948 NIT national championship and won AP player of the year in 1949.

Ed Macauley

A loyal native whose mother allowed him to choose any college that was “Catholic and in St. Louis,” Ed Macauley led the Saint Louis University basketball team to the 1948 NIT national championship and won AP player of the year in 1949.

Born in St. Louis, Marsha Mason began acting at Nerinx Hall High and Webster College.

Marsha Mason

Born in St. Louis, Marsha Mason began acting at Nerinx Hall High and Webster College.

William Howell Masters began researching sexual function at the Washington University School of Medicine in 1954.

Masters & Johnson

William Howell Masters began researching sexual function at the Washington University School of Medicine in 1954.

William Henry Mauldin joined the Army newsletter Stars and Stripes as a cartoonist during World War II.

Bill Maudlin

William Henry Mauldin joined the Army newsletter Stars and Stripes as a cartoonist during World War II.

Noted for her striking beauty, Virginia Mayo was one of the most successful actresses of the 1940s and 1950s.

Virginia Mayo

Noted for her striking beauty, Virginia Mayo was one of the most successful actresses of the 1940s and 1950s.

Tim McCarver debuted with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1959 at the age of 17. A fine defensive catcher and a dangerous hitter, McCarver became a mainstay on the great Cardinals teams of the 1960s.

Tim McCarver

Tim McCarver debuted with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1959 at the age of 17. A fine defensive catcher and a dangerous hitter, McCarver became a mainstay on the great Cardinals teams of the 1960s.

Born and raised in the Ferguson area of St. Louis, Michael McDonald attended McCluer High School and performed locally with The Majestics and Jerry Jay and The Sheratons before moving to Los Angeles in 1970.

Michael McDonald

Born and raised in the Ferguson area of St. Louis, Michael McDonald attended McCluer High School and performed locally with The Majestics and Jerry Jay and The Sheratons before moving to Los Angeles in 1970.

Baritone Robert McFerrin moved to St. Louis in 1936 and began classical voice training at Sumner High.

Robert McFerrin Sr.

Baritone Robert McFerrin moved to St. Louis in 1936 and began classical voice training at Sumner High.

Born and raised in St. Louis, David Margulois graduated from Central High in 1930 and received a law degree from St. Louis University in 1937.

David Merrick

Born and raised in St. Louis, David Margulois graduated from Central High in 1930 and received a law degree from St. Louis University in 1937.

Born Archibald Lee Wright, Hall of Fame boxer Archie Moore was raised in St. Louis.

Archie Moore

Born Archibald Lee Wright, Hall of Fame boxer Archie Moore was raised in St. Louis.

Born in Kirkwood, poet Marianne Moore was profoundly influenced by her early upbringing in the St. Louis area before her family moved to Pennsylvania.

Marianne Moore

Born in Kirkwood, poet Marianne Moore was profoundly influenced by her early upbringing in the St. Louis area before her family moved to Pennsylvania.

Agnes Moorehead moved to St. Louis as a child, where she acted in stage productions, danced with the Muny Opera and debuted as a radio singer on KMOX in 1923.

Agnes Moorehead

Agnes Moorehead moved to St. Louis as a child, where she acted in stage productions, danced with the Muny Opera and debuted as a radio singer on KMOX in 1923.

Stan Musial was one of the greatest players in the history of baseball.

Stan Musial

Stan Musial was one of the greatest players in the history of baseball.

Born Cornell Haynes Jr., Nelly formed the St. Lunatics in 1993 with friends from University City High.

Nelly

Born Cornell Haynes Jr., Nelly formed the St. Lunatics in 1993 with friends from University City High.

Howard Nemerov graduated from Harvard in 1941, served in World War ii and began teaching in 1946.

Howard Nemerov

Howard Nemerov graduated from Harvard in 1941, served in World War ii and began teaching in 1946.

A U.S. Navy flying ace whose exploits buoyed U.S. morale during WWII, Edward “Butch” O’Hare was born and raised in St. Louis.

Butch O’Hare

A U.S. Navy flying ace whose exploits buoyed U.S. morale during WWII, Edward “Butch” O’Hare was born and raised in St. Louis.

Gyo Obata, a Washington University graduate, co-founded the St. Louis architecture firm Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum in 1955.

Gyo Obata

Gyo Obata, a Washington University graduate, co-founded the St. Louis architecture firm Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum in 1955.

Ridley Pearson’s initial success came in crime fiction, with series heroes like detective Lou Boldt or standalone novels such as The Diary of Ellen Rimbauer, which topped best-seller lists in 2002.

Ridley Pearson

Ridley Pearson’s initial success came in crime fiction, with series heroes like detective Lou Boldt or standalone novels such as The Diary of Ellen Rimbauer, which topped best-seller lists in 2002.

Marlin Perkins came to the St. Louis Zoo in 1926 to work with the reptile collection. He became curator of the Buffalo Zoo in 1938.

Marlin Perkins

Marlin Perkins came to the St. Louis Zoo in 1926 to work with the reptile collection. He became curator of the Buffalo Zoo in 1938.

One of America’s preeminent cartoonists, Mike Peters was born and raised in St. Louis. After graduating from CBC High, he earned a fine arts degree at Washington University in 1965.

Mike Peters

One of America’s preeminent cartoonists, Mike Peters was born and raised in St. Louis. After graduating from CBC High, he earned a fine arts degree at Washington University in 1965.

Basketball legend Bob Pettit came to St. Louis with the Hawks in 1955. The ideal power forward, he averaged 26.4 points and 16.2 rebounds per game for his career.

Bob Pettit

Basketball legend Bob Pettit came to St. Louis with the Hawks in 1955. The ideal power forward, he averaged 26.4 points and 16.2 rebounds per game for his career.

Called “The King of Horror,” Vincent Price is best known for his villainous roles in more than 100 films, as well as many stage and television productions, but his accomplishments cover a much broader range.

Vincent Price

Called “The King of Horror,” Vincent Price is best known for his villainous roles in more than 100 films, as well as many stage and television productions, but his accomplishments cover a much broader range.

A native of Hungary, Joseph Pulitzer emigrated to the U.S. in 1864 and served in the Union Army during the Civil War.

Joseph Pulitzer

A native of Hungary, Joseph Pulitzer emigrated to the U.S. in 1864 and served in the Union Army during the Civil War.

A Chicago native, Harold Ramis attended Washington University in St. Louis and graduated in 1966.

Harold Ramis

A Chicago native, Harold Ramis attended Washington University in St. Louis and graduated in 1966.

St. Louis-born golf prodigy Judy Torluemke began playing at age six and honed her skills at the “Triple A” golf course in Forest Park.

Judy Rankin

St. Louis-born golf prodigy Judy Torluemke began playing at age six and honed her skills at the “Triple A” golf course in Forest Park.

Born in China, Peter Raven was a professor at Stanford University before moving to St. Louis in 1971 to head the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Peter Raven

Born in China, Peter Raven was a professor at Stanford University before moving to St. Louis in 1971 to head the Missouri Botanical Garden.

A dominant force in Saint Louis University’s rise in national stature, Father Paul C. Reinert, S.J. earned three degrees there before joining the faculty in 1944.

Paul C Reinert S.J.

A dominant force in Saint Louis University’s rise in national stature, Father Paul C. Reinert, S.J. earned three degrees there before joining the faculty in 1944.

Often called the greatest front-office strategist in baseball history, Branch Rickey came to the Cardinals in 1917 and turned a losing team into a powerhouse.

Branch Rickey

Often called the greatest front-office strategist in baseball history, Branch Rickey came to the Cardinals in 1917 and turned a losing team into a powerhouse.

General Roscoe Robinson Jr. in his army uniform with many stars, awards, and decorations.

Roscoe Robinson Jr.

Roscoe Robinson Jr., the first African American 4-star Army General, rose from humble beginnings in St. Louis to graduate from the prestigious West Point Military Academy in 1951.

In 1925 Russell Markert formed the “Missouri Rockets,” a 16-member dance line that performed before feature films at the Missouri Theater on Grand Avenue.

The Rockettes

In 1925 Russell Markert formed the “Missouri Rockets,” a 16-member dance line that performed before feature films at the Missouri Theater on Grand Avenue.

Already known as one of the city’s most charming hostesses, St. Louis native Irma Rombauer risked her own funds to publish The Joy of Cooking in 1931.

Irma Rombauer

Already known as one of the city’s most charming hostesses, St. Louis native Irma Rombauer risked her own funds to publish The Joy of Cooking in 1931.

Charles Marion Russell’s more than 3,000 paintings, drawings and sculptures captured the essence of the American West.

Charles M. Russell

Charles Marion Russell’s more than 3,000 paintings, drawings and sculptures captured the essence of the American West.

Saxophonist David Sanborn grew up in Kirkwood and began playing in St. Louis area clubs as a teen.

David Sandborn

Saxophonist David Sanborn grew up in Kirkwood and began playing in St. Louis area clubs as a teen.

Albert “Red” Schoendienst joined the Cardinals in 1945, his first of over 50 consecutive years in a big league uniform.

Red Schoendienst

Albert “Red” Schoendienst joined the Cardinals in 1945, his first of over 50 consecutive years in a big league uniform.

Remembered for the infamous 1857 decision that denied them their freedom, Dred and Harriet Scott spent much of their adult lives enslaved in St. Louis.

Dred & Harriet Scott

Remembered for the infamous 1857 decision that denied them their freedom, Dred and Harriet Scott spent much of their adult lives enslaved in St. Louis.

Born Paulette Williams, writer Ntozake Shange lived in St. Louis from 8 to 13 years of age on Windemere Place in The Ville.

Ntozake Shange

Born Paulette Williams, writer Ntozake Shange lived in St. Louis from 8 to 13 years of age on Windemere Place in The Ville.

Henry Shaw, only 18 when he came to St. Louis, was one of the city’s largest landowners by age 40.

Henry Shaw

Henry Shaw, only 18 when he came to St. Louis, was one of the city’s largest landowners by age 40.

One of the greatest Civil War generals, William T. Sherman first settled his family in St. Louis in 1851.

William T. Sherman

One of the greatest Civil War generals, William T. Sherman first settled his family in St. Louis in 1851.

The greatest player in St. Louis Browns history, “Gentleman” George Sisler was arguably baseball’s most complete first baseman.

George Sisler

The greatest player in St. Louis Browns history, “Gentleman” George Sisler was arguably baseball’s most complete first baseman.

Leonard Slatkin studied violin, viola and piano as a child and made his Carnegie Hall conducting debut at age 22.

Leonard Slatkin

Leonard Slatkin studied violin, viola and piano as a child and made his Carnegie Hall conducting debut at age 22.

With his rare combination of size, speed and competitive intensity, Jackie Smith redefined the position of tight end in the NFL.

Jackie Smith

With his rare combination of size, speed and competitive intensity, Jackie Smith redefined the position of tight end in the NFL.

The greatest defensive shortstop of all time, Osborne Earl “Ozzie” Smith anchored the thrilling “Runnin’ Redbirds” teams that appeared in three World Series, winning in 1982.

Ozzie Smith

The greatest defensive shortstop of all time, Osborne Earl “Ozzie” Smith anchored the thrilling “Runnin’ Redbirds” teams that appeared in three World Series, winning in 1982.

The music we now call gospel was thought too worldly in 1917 when Willie Mae Ford moved to St. Louis, but she was to change that.

Willie Mae Ford Smith

The music we now call gospel was thought too worldly in 1917 when Willie Mae Ford moved to St. Louis, but she was to change that.

Michael and Leon Spinks when they are young. They are in their boxing gloves.

Michael & Leon Spinks

In 1981 Michael Spinks won the WBA light heavyweight title and in 1983 began his reign as the undisputed world light heavyweight champion. Leon Spinks, in just his 8th pro fight, became the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world in 1978. His defeat of Muhammad Ali for the crown was one of the most monumental upsets in boxing history.

Disabled in an auto accident in 1959, lifelong St. Louisan Max Starkloff never surrendered to dependence or inaction.

Max Starkloff

Disabled in an auto accident in 1959, lifelong St. Louisan Max Starkloff never surrendered to dependence or inaction.

Sara Teasdale was born in St. Louis and lived both on Lindell Blvd. and on Kingsbury Place.

Sara Teasdale

Sara Teasdale was born in St. Louis and lived both on Lindell Blvd. and on Kingsbury Place.

Born in St. Louis, Clark Terry made his first trumpet out of garden hose, attended Vashon High School and played in local clubs before joining a Navy band during World War II.

Clark Terry

Born in St. Louis, Clark Terry made his first trumpet out of garden hose, attended Vashon High School and played in local clubs before joining a Navy band during World War II.

Known as Kitty Fink at Soldan High and Washington University, St. Louis-born Kay Thompson began her career as a singer in Hollywood.

Kay Thompson

Known as Kitty Fink at Soldan High and Washington University, St. Louis-born Kay Thompson began her career as a singer in Hollywood.

A great blues guitarist and pianist, Henry Townsend grew up near Cairo, Illinois. After moving to St. Louis, he made his first record in 1929.

Henry Townsend

A great blues guitarist and pianist, Henry Townsend grew up near Cairo, Illinois. After moving to St. Louis, he made his first record in 1929.

Born above her father’s drugstore at Jefferson and Chouteau Avenues in south St. Louis, heroic-voiced Helen Traubel debuted with the St. Louis Symphony in 1924.

Helen Traubel

Born above her father’s drugstore at Jefferson and Chouteau Avenues in south St. Louis, heroic-voiced Helen Traubel debuted with the St. Louis Symphony in 1924.

Ernest Tino Trova, a self-trained St. Louis native, became one of the most significant artists of the late twentieth century.

Ernest Trova

Ernest Tino Trova, a self-trained St. Louis native, became one of the most significant artists of the late twentieth century.

Ike Turner played a profound role in shaping American music.

Ike Turner

Ike Turner played a profound role in shaping American music.

Her powerful voice and the raw intensity of her stage shows brought Tina Turner rhythm & blues fame in the 1960s.

Tina Turner

Her powerful voice and the raw intensity of her stage shows brought Tina Turner rhythm & blues fame in the 1960s.

In 1947 Mona Van Duyn co-founded Perspective: A Quarterly of Literature with her husband, Jarvis Thurston.

Mona Van Duyn

In 1947 Mona Van Duyn co-founded Perspective: A Quarterly of Literature with her husband, Jarvis Thurston.

Among the greatest bowlers in history and a leading ambassador for the sport, Dick Weber became a St. Louisan in 1955 when he joined the legendary Budweiser bowling team.

Dick Weber

Among the greatest bowlers in history and a leading ambassador for the sport, Dick Weber became a St. Louisan in 1955 when he joined the legendary Budweiser bowling team.

Born and raised in St. Louis, comedic actress Mary Wickes graduated from Beaumont High and Washington University.

Mary Wickes

Born and raised in St. Louis, comedic actress Mary Wickes graduated from Beaumont High and Washington University.

One of the greatest twentieth-century playwrights, Tennessee Williams attended Soldan and University City high schools, and Washington University, before graduating from the University of Iowa.

Tennessee Williams

One of the greatest twentieth-century playwrights, Tennessee Williams attended Soldan and University City high schools, and Washington University, before graduating from the University of Iowa.

Arriving in St. Louis in 1843, the young immigrant Carl Wimar was enthralled by the Native Americans who camped near the city to trade furs.

Carl Wimar

Arriving in St. Louis in 1843, the young immigrant Carl Wimar was enthralled by the Native Americans who camped near the city to trade furs.

Born Shirley Schrift in an apartment on Newstead Ave. in St. Louis, she was in the Veiled Prophet pageant at age four.

Shelley Winters

Born Shirley Schrift in an apartment on Newstead Ave. in St. Louis, she was in the Veiled Prophet pageant at age four.

Dedicated to women’s participation at all levels of government, Harriett Woods began her political career on the University City Council in 1967 and became the first woman elected statewide in Missouri in 1984.

Harriett Woods

Dedicated to women’s participation at all levels of government, Harriett Woods began her political career on the University City Council in 1967 and became the first woman elected statewide in Missouri in 1984.

Cartoonist Murat Bernard “Chic” Young grew up in St. Louis at 2148 Oregon Ave. and graduated from McKinley High in 1919.

Chic Young

Cartoonist Murat Bernard “Chic” Young grew up in St. Louis at 2148 Oregon Ave. and graduated from McKinley High in 1919.