Tilles Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tilles Park |
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Duck at Tilles Park, St. Louis County, Missouri
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| Type | Urban park |
| Location | St. Louis County, Missouri, United States |
| Area | 75 acres (30 ha) |
| Created | 1932 |
| Owned by | City of St. Louis (1932–1957) St. Louis County (1957–present) |
| Operated by | St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department |
| Website | St Louis County Government, Tilles Park |
Tilles Park is a popular green space in Ladue, Missouri. Ladue is a town located just west of St. Louis. This park is managed by St. Louis County, Missouri.
The park was originally named Rosalie Tilles Memorial Park. It was created to honor Rosalie Tilles, the mother of its founder, Andrew Tilles. People often called Andrew Tilles "Cap" Tilles. You can find the park at Litzsinger Road and McKnight Road.
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How Tilles Park Started
The Early Years: 1932 to 1957
In 1932, a rich businessman and generous person named Cap A. Tilles gave land to the City of St. Louis. He wanted this land to become a public park for everyone to enjoy.
Building the park began in 1938. Workers from the Works Progress Administration helped construct its facilities. This was a government program that created jobs during the Great Depression. By the time World War II started, the first part of the park was finished.
A New Owner: 1957 to Today
In 1955, the City of St. Louis thought about selling Tilles Park. They found that most people using the park lived in the county, not in the city. More than 80 percent of visitors were from the county.
The city also realized it needed more park space within its own borders. So, in 1956, the City of St. Louis decided to sell the park. They planned to sell it to companies that would build on the land.
However, the St. Louis County Council stepped in. On April 17, 1957, they voted to buy the park. This saved Tilles Park from being developed. The county paid $429,625 for the park. After this, the City of St. Louis created a new Rosalie Tilles Memorial Park inside the city.
In 2018, Tilles Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized as an important historical site.
Fun Things to Do at Tilles Park
Tilles Park is a great place for picnics. Many families and friends gather there to eat and relax.
Winter Wonderland Light Show
Every December, Tilles Park becomes famous for its annual Winter Wonderland Light Show. This outdoor event is a magical display of lights. You can see many structures, animals, and other Christmas decorations made from electric lights.
You can drive your car through the show. You can also ride in a carriage, which is popular for special occasions like wedding proposals. This amazing light show has been a tradition at the park every winter since 1985.
