A community dedicated to gathering, nurturing, learning and building.
Central Corridor: Mill Creek Valley & Midtown
Carver House Community Center
Open to public / Not Open to public
Not open to public - DISPLACED
Carver House opened in 1939 in a Bell Avenue Mansion though its origins can be traced to an earlier social center founded by the Wesley House Association in 1919. In 1934 the association moved to 4507 Lee Avenue and decided to turn its old building into a black branch of Wesley House. The new center was named in honor of George Washington Carver, a prominent black botanist agricultural chemist, and educator. In 1937 the National Youth Administration and the Federal Works Progress Administration organized training and recreational programs at the center. By 1957 more than 43,000 children and adults were participating in its programs each year. The current building opened in 1958.
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.
COMMUNITY CONTACT
No affiliations