Posted by Dawn Griffin
About Ames Place and University City
Ames Place is an enclave of University City, an inner-ring suburb of St. Louis. A charming, quiet, neighborhood of about 200 single family homes, Ames Place was filed for the record as a neighborhood in 1914. Situated on 53 acres, Ames Place hosts about 200 single family homes. The neighborhood is made up of the 6600, 6800, and 6900 blocks of the south side of Kingsbury, both north and south sides of Waterman, Pershing, and University Drive and the 300 and 400 blocks of Melville.
The Development of Ames Place
According to Esley Hamilton’s Ames Place: A Brief History of Its Planning and Development, “the appearance of the neighborhood is largely dictated by the indentures, which require residences to be a minimum of 2 ½ stories tall, or two stories with a hip roof, to be of masonry construction, or cement on metal lath and to have the same appearance all the way around, and to be used for no other purpose than an exclusive private residence. University Drive is part of Ames Place, but it was originally opened to the construction of apartment houses. All but a few houses were built within a period of twelve years. More than half the houses, 114, were built by nine contractors. There are several instances of two or more homes built to the same plan, but there is little sense of repetition because of the differences in materials and details.”
Ames Place Today
The proximity of Ames Place to Washington University, Forest Park, the Delmar Loop, and Clayton is part of its appeal. Its tree-lined streets are preserved by the neighborhood tree committee, who manages maintenance and replanting of lost trees. The Kinsgbury Parkway is also maintained by Ames Place after it was purchased from the city. Ames Place residents celebrate Independence Day with an annual neighborhood parade and picnic.
History of 6932 Pershing Avenue
In 1920, developer Ray Matthews built 6932 Pershing, a craftsman with a stuccoed lunette He sold it to a buyer for JC Penney and by 1938 it was owned by neurologist Leonard Furlow.
6932 Pershing Today
NEW LISTING: Fabulously located – from the heart of Ames Place in University City comes this 2.5 story, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home with lovely curb appeal. Inside 6932 Pershing you will find a desirable blend of historic details and modern amenities. The living room spans front of home overlooking the tree-lined street. Built-in bookshelves and a ventless gas log fireplace make things cozy. An updated open concept kitchen has stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a breakfast bar housing a second oven. Walk-out to deck for your morning coffee or enjoy the hot tub. Back inside a T-staircase leads to 2nd floor primary bedroom with updated bath that has dual sinks and large shower. Two more bedrooms and full bath complete this level. The third floor has another bedroom. This is a great flex space that could also be used as a playroom, office, gameroom. The lower level has finished space – use as rec room/gym, family room, office + storage. The home as a tidy fenced yard and 2-car garage. Easy walk to Flynn Park, Forest Park, WashU, Metrolink and the Loop for dining, shopping, entertainment.
- Listed at $599,900.
- Open House Sunday, April 23rd from 1-3pm.
- Virtual tour, photos, floorplan, and more
- Ames Place Community Website
- Take an Ames Place Walking Tour of Century Homes
History of University City
In 1902, Edward Gardner Lewis purchased 85 acres just northwest of the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair Forest Park construction site. Lewis was the publisher of the Womans’ Magazine and the Woman’s Farm Journal, which had outgrown two locations in downtown St. Louis. The 85-acre area would be the headquarters for the Lewis Publishing Company, as well the site for a “high-class residential district.” Lewis decided to develop the area as a model city, a real “City Beautiful.” Lewis became the city’s first mayor when it incorporated in 1906.
University City Today
Known for its vibrancy and diversity, University City has a multitude of home styles, from historic century homes to newer luxury lofts and condos. Home to Washington University, many of the local businesses cater to the student population. University City hosts several community events a year and has a Farmer’s Market. It has 21 parks of approximately 260 acres. The largest is Heman Park, which includes a swimming pool, community center, picnic areas, pavilions, and multiple sports fields. The St. Louis Walk of Fame is a popular tourist destination and honors notable people from St. Louis, Missouri, who made contributions to the culture of the United States. 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.
Shopping in University City
Most commercial development is located on two major thoroughfares, Olive Boulevard and Delmar Boulevard. These two roadways run parallel to each other, traversing the city from East to West and extending beyond the western city limits. There several neighborhood commercial areas at key intersections. These areas are within walking distance to residences and include service providers, retail boutiques, repair shops and restaurants.
Arts and Culture in University City
University City has a strong community culture with a rich tradition of excellence in the creative and performing arts. There are several art galleries and studios including COCA (Center for Creative Arts) and the Craft Alliance Center of Art & Design. Additionally, there are ample opportunities for citizens to becoming involved in the community. The University City Orchestra, Optimist Club, U. City in Bloom and U. City Lions are just some of the civic interest groups that residents can join.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in Ames Place or University City, please reach out. We would love to assist you.
