I was giving a lecture in St. Joseph, Missouri, in the northwestern corner of the state, and lo and behold, I found one of the most architecturally rich cities in the Midwest, if not in the whole United States.
Powered by immense stockyards and industry that dwarfed Kansas City to the south for most of the two cities’ history, St. Joseph was eventually passed up by its younger rival.
But what is left is a fascinating city, with large amounts of industry and amazing old mansions, many which have been renovated and others waiting for their savior.
Up on Cathedral Hill are some of the most beautiful houses in America.
Supposedly, I read, St. Joseph at one point in the late Nineteenth Century had more millionaires per capita than any other city in America. I would believe it.
While over on Museum Hill, there are more stunners, and plenty of houses that have been mothballed and waiting for rehabbers.
And of course, we’ll see some amazing churches, as well.
We also have access to some nice historic photos, which show the city at the height of its influence and power. So sit back, and for the next three weeks we’ll see how St. Joseph rose and became an influential city at the same time as St. Louis.
