Gateway Arch Anniversary

October 28, 2011 marked the 46th anniversary of the final section of the Gateway Arch being put into place. A celebration was held in the Visitor Center under the Gateway Arch on Saturday, October 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Builders and workers who were on the Arch construction project shared their incredible first-hand stories of their roles in building a structure that had never been built before. They also shared their memorabilia and photographs—some of which have never been seen before by the public.

You can visit the Arch Anniversary Store for exclusive commemorative items! You can also give a birthday gift which supports the exhibits and educational programs developed at the Gateway Arch for visitors as well as local and national school children. Missouri residents can show their pride for St. Louis and the national park by ordering a Gateway Arch specialty license plate in support of education.

Every year birthday cake is served in Levee Mercantile (while it lasts) and children can experience the 'construction zone'—an activity area for all ages with large-scale floor and tabletop Arch models to build, puzzles and coloring pages.

After the public event, Steward-level and above Partner of the Parks members were invited to a private lunch with the builders of the Gateway Arch at the Old Spaghetti Factory.

See construction photos from the National Park Service archives or visit the official site of Jefferson National Expansion Memorial.

See you next year!