By examining these and many other accomplishments of these families, Julius Hunter provides a unique historical perspective on the past century of American life. In addition to providing the historical background, Hunter presents vivid descriptions of glamorous social occasions in Westmoreland and Portland - weddings, balls, even funerals - and he shows that the residents were sometimes united, and sometimes split, by bonds of family, marriage, religion, club membership, and political preference. Interviews with people who lived on those streets early in this century provide a unique glimpse of what it was like to grow up in the prestigious neighborhood. Hunter's text is superbly illustrated. More than 200 color photographs depict the houses as they appear today, including architectural details and interior views. More than 200 black-and-white photographs provide a glimpse of St. Louis's past. Every house that has stood in either Westmoreland or Portland is shown.

The city of St. Louis has undergone substantial physical changes in recent years--dramatic new structures have been built in the rejuvenated downtown district and throughout the urban area; neglected buildings have been put to new, innovative uses; and historic neighborhoods and landmarks have been restored. Illustrating and describing over two hundred years of architecture from both the city and the surrounding region, A Guide to the Architecture of St. Louis includes over 500 photographs, elevation drawings, plans, diagrams, and maps. In addition, the entry for each structure gives the address, the name of the architect, the date, the date of construction, and descriptive and historic information. Introductory essays provide an overview of architectural developments in the city and stress its unique characteristics, such as its private streets and vernacular structures. Sponsored by the St. Louis Chapter, American Institute of Architects