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Clayton, Richmond Heights, Frontenac, Brentwood
Clayton
Clayton, Missouri
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In the early 1900s, African American families began moving into central St. Louis County, settling in Clayton (the county seat), Brentwood, and Richmond Heights, to work in brickyards and serve affluent households. Smaller communities also took root in Pagedale and Breckenridge Hills. As these populations grew, they built their own homes, businesses, churches, and schools, forming largely self‑contained neighborhoods.
Over time, however, many of these communities were lost or transformed. In Clayton and Brentwood, the original African American enclaves have completely vanished. Richmond Heights has seen much of its historic community disappear, displaced by highway expansions and redevelopment. Pagedale and Breckenridge Hills have also undergone total change, though the broader Black community continues to grow in the region.
Richard Hudlin, was the first postmaster of Clayton.
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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Clayton, Missouri
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