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The Ville, Northside, Riverview
Billups Avenue
formerly Pendleton
Open to public / Not Open to public
Not open to public
Billups Avenue, formerly part of Pendleton Avenue, was renamed to commemorate Kenneth B. Billups, a prominent figure in St. Louis's African American history. As chairman of Sumner High School's music department, Billups founded the Legend Singers and mentored students like opera star Grace Bumbry. The avenue runs west of Sumner High School, extending from Kennerly Avenue to Martin Luther King Drive, and serves as a lasting tribute to Billups's contributions to music education and the cultural enrichment of the Ville neighborhood.
SOURCE: The historical information presented on this page is adapted with permission from Discovering African American St. Louis: A Guide to Historic Sites by Dr. John A. Wright, Sr. We are honored to share his invaluable research and historical insights, made available through the generous consent of Dr. Wright and the Missouri Historical Society Press. Their dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of Black St. Louis is a gift to our community—a testament to those who came before us and a guide for those who walk the path forward.
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formerly Pendleton