The Nathan Frank Bandstand, which is surrounded by a moat across from The Muny in Forest Park, was built in 1925 and underwent a major renovation in 1993 by Forest Park Forever. In what is probably remembered by only a few, there was earlier effort undertaken in the early 1980's led by Susie Yoder, who was president of the Central West End Association at the time, and Mary Bartley, who would later serve multiple terms as president of the CWEA. The two neighborhood leaders spearheaded the first renovation of the Bandstand in an effort to demonstrate what the CWEA was all about.
With funds generated from a successful CWEA House Tour, and with substantial assistance from the late Leon Strauss of Pantheon Corporation, and late Gabe Alberici of Alberici Construction Co. (both CWE residents), and plans drawn by architect Bill Yarger, the CWEA set out to do what they could to repair the structure which was in an advanced state of disrepair. The St. Louis Fire Department assisted by mucking out pigeon droppings that were 14" deep; the basement was renovated; the ceiling was painted, and lighting was added. When I spoke to Mary Bartley this afternoon she said that there was criticism of the lighting at the time because it is not "of the period." She explained that the cost of wiring the structure was enormous, and that the light fixtures the two women chose were all they could afford (the same lighting remains to this day).
When the renovation was completed the CWEA held a box-supper picnic to celebrate the occasion. The 70-piece U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America, based at Scott Air Force Base, brought their instruments, including a piano, over a temporary bridge constructed by the Parks Department especially for the concert. Because of the "v" shaped ceiling, the acoustics emanating from the Nathan Frank Bandstand were amazing, according to Mary. I am not sure whether another concert has been held there since, but it's fun to think about, isn't it?
It was truly educational to read about the Bandstand. After all these years and living my younger years in the CWE I can’t believe I overlooked those details. Jan and I thank you for your notes and of course Mary Bartleyand all that was done by so many to create and return it to its past glory.. Timeless and a treasure for all of us.
Nicki — maybe Mary Bartley should be honored in a permanent way? She was a force for real good!
I agree that Mary Bartley should be acknowledged for the work on the bandstand and many other wonderful things she did for our town.
I have always loved the bandstand in Forest Park across from the Muny . It is an iconic St. Louis landmark ! I’ve always referred to it as ‘The Temple on an Island’. This week , the week of Feb.14 ,15 , 2021, celebrating the 257 birthday of St. Louis, with the lake or moat surrounding the bandstand frozen solid , it was possible to cross over and visit the bandstand , something obviously not generally possible . What a treat ! Thanks to everyone involved for keeping this structure in great condition . May it always be preserved !
Barbara: After writing this post I too started to focus on how much Mary has done for the neighborhood. It’s good to be reminded once in a while of what the CWE would be if not for the work of Mary and others like her. This is tedious work and we are so lucky to live in a place where there are those who care enough to help preserve what we have.
It was Mary Bartley who was instrumental in changing the course of preservation on Kingsbury Place and Washington Terrace. Could have been either #2 or #4 the Spanish style home was slated for the wrecking ball in the early 70’s. The owner had died and her will requested that the home be demolished. Mary and I took several afternoons photographing every house on the Place. I still have the pictures in my files. It must have been the CWE Association that took the case to court. The home is still standing. Kudos to Mary. Barbara
Nicki… I did not know Susie. But I know the CWE and the Park would not be the great place they are today if it was not for the very hard work and tenacity of a small group of Cwe women! Mary was KEY!