Construction Begins on the Gateway Arch

On February 12, 1963, construction began on the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, marking the commencement of an iconic architectural project. The Gateway Arch would come to symbolize the city and its historical role as the “Gateway to the West” for pioneers embarking on westward expansion.

Background

The concept for the monument originated in the late 1930s as part of a broader initiative to revitalize the St. Louis riverfront area and to create a memorial to honor the westward expansion of the United States. In 1947, a nationwide competition was held to design a monument, which was won by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen with his visionary design of a sleek, stainless steel arch.

Despite being selected in the late 1940s, numerous delays postponed the start of construction. The project faced a variety of obstacles, including legal battles, funding issues, and political challenges, which were finally resolved in the early 1960s.

The Construction Process

The construction of the Gateway Arch began with the foundation pilings being driven into the ground on February 12, 1963. The process required precise engineering and planning, as the structural integrity of the arch depended on its foundations. The construction was managed by the McDonnell Construction Company and involved careful coordination to ensure the assembly of the stainless steel exterior and internal tram systems.

The construction involved welding together steel sections, known as modules, which created the triangular shape of the arch’s cross-section. These were hoisted and held in place by cranes as workers bolted and welded them. The construction faced challenges, including the need to maintain perfect alignment of the two legs of the arch throughout the process to ensure they met exactly at the apex.

Completion and Significance

The construction of the Gateway Arch was completed on October 28, 1965, after approximately two and a half years of work. Upon completion, it stood 630 feet tall, making it the tallest man-made monument in the United States and the tallest arch in the world.

The Gateway Arch serves as the centerpiece of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, now known as the Gateway Arch National Park. It stands as a powerful symbol of the city of St. Louis and represents innovation and forward-thinking design. The arch attracts millions of visitors each year, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River from its observation deck.

The completion of the Gateway Arch fulfilled Saarinen’s vision and established an enduring landmark representing the ambition and aspirations of the American people during the nation’s westward expansion.