Establishment of St. Louis as a French Trading Post

On February 15, 1764, the city of St. Louis was established as a French trading post by Pierre Laclède and his stepson Auguste Chouteau. This event marked a significant moment in the expansion of French influence in North America, particularly in the Mississippi River region.

Background

• French Colonial Expansion: During the 18th century, France was actively expanding its territories in North America. The Mississippi River was a crucial artery for trade and transportation, and the French sought to establish strategic outposts along its banks.
• Pierre Laclède: A French fur trader, Laclède was granted the rights to establish a trading post by the French government. He recognized the strategic importance of the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers.
• Auguste Chouteau: At just 14 years old, Chouteau played a pivotal role in the establishment of the settlement. He led a group of workers to clear the land and lay the foundations for what would become St. Louis.

Establishment of St. Louis

• Site Selection: Laclède and Chouteau chose a site on a high bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, which provided a natural levee and protection from flooding. The location was ideal for trade with Native American tribes and other settlers.
• Construction: The initial construction involved building cabins and a trading post. The settlement quickly grew as it attracted traders, settlers, and Native Americans.
• Naming: The settlement was named after King Louis IX of France, reflecting the French heritage and influence in the region.

Significance and Consequences

• Trade Hub: St. Louis rapidly became a major hub for the fur trade, connecting various indigenous tribes and European settlers. Its strategic location facilitated commerce and cultural exchanges.
• Cultural Melting Pot: The city became a melting pot of cultures, including French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences, which shaped its unique cultural identity.
• Territorial Changes: Although established under French control, St. Louis would later come under Spanish rule following the Treaty of Fontainebleau in 1762, and eventually become part of the United States with the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.

Legacy

• Gateway to the West: St. Louis played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States, serving as a starting point for explorers like Lewis and Clark.
• Modern City: Today, St. Louis is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and significant contributions to American history.

The founding of St. Louis by Pierre Laclède and Auguste Chouteau laid the groundwork for a city that would become a pivotal part of American history and development.