The Carondelet Historical Society
and Carondelet Historic Center
6303 Michigan Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63111
(314) 481-6303
Contact: Ron Bolte, President

Hours of Operation:
Wednesdays and Fridays: 9:30 a.m. to Noon
Saturdays: 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Admission: Adults - $2.00; Children (12 and under) $1.00
Tours: Special arrangements for visiting the Center (groups or individuals) can be made by calling 481-6303.

The Carondelet Historical Society was founded in 1967 by a group of Carondelet residents whose purpose was to preserve the rich heritage of Carondelet. There were 353 charter members. Our membership today is 358.  In 1970 a large plaque was erected in Bellerive Park, overlooking the Mississippi  River, describing the founding of Carondelet and important dates related to the growth of the community.  Also, plaques have been placed on 45 sites of historic significance, including businesses, churches and homes - each having its own unique place in Carondelet's heritage. Historical papers, books, furniture and many other items have been collected over the years.

In February, 1980, plans to acquire headquarters for the society were initiated.  The Family Care Center of Carondelet had purchased the Cook's Market complex in the 6300 block of Michigan Avenue and did not need the Des Peres School building (now the Cardondelet Historic Center). It was offered to the Society and the Susan Blow Foundation.  In April, 1981, the building was purchased from the Family Care Center for $25,000.  The purchase price was raised in a ten-week fund drive.  Major renovation has been accomplished as funds became available.  These included the opening of the front doors and windows, new furnaces and air conditioning, new roof, pointing and other projects.  Our most recent, completed in March '97 is the remodeling of our Board and meeting rooms and remodeling of display areas (in progress).

Susan E. Blow Kindergarten/Museum
The Center is the site of the first continuous public school kindergarten founded by Susan Blow in September, 1873.  Teachers are encouraged to bring their students to the kindergarten where volunteers will assist the children in re-creating some of the activities of these early kindergartners.  There is no charge for classes of students to visit the kindergarten and museum.

Cleveland High School Display
After Cleveland High School closed in 1984, no provisions had been made to house or care for the many trophies, Beacons, historical items, etc.  The Cleveland High School Staff-Alumni Association was formed to be the caretakers of these items.  They are now on display on the second floor gallery of the Center and in the Library.

Carondelet Memorabilia
Other areas of the Center are given to the many mementos of the rich and varied history of Carondelet.  Our Library has a variety of resources for genealogical study and historical research.

At this time we cannot perform genealogy look-ups.  We are limited in the amount of information we can offer over the web.  If you have any suggestions as to what might be more helpful please e-mail us.