Ballwin, incorporated in December 1950 as a small village of 750 people is now a thriving city of 27,000.The town, named after its founder, John Ball, is the only "Ballwin" in the entire United States.Ball established the town when present-day Manchester road was built to link St. Louis with Missouri´s capitol in Jefferson City.
Missouri Highway 100/Manchester Road was important to the growth of Ballwin as a city.The road originally lay out as an overland mail route between St. Louis and Jefferson City provided easy access for business owners and consumers. He capitalized on the accessibility it provided for his property.
In the early part of the 20th century the Ballwin Bus Line served as a means for traveling about WestCounty.John F. Bopp, owner of the livery stable at the time, started the bus line which carried passengers as well as mail.
Another landmark found in Ballwin is the Barn at Lucerne.Erected in 1916, this was one of the first dairy barns in the country and the largest and best equipped in the state.The Barn at Lucerne experienced extensive damage from a fire which occurred in 1968.However, in 1974 work began to change the barn into a shopping center.Presently the Barn features shops and restaurants made from the old stalls.
Ballwin natives especially appreciate baseball as a pastime.The first ball diamond was laid out in the 1920s and was located behind the Schrader Funeral Home.Since then, the ball diamond has moved several times, but currently are located Jefferson St. and Lyons Road.From Ballwin´s long history of baseball came two professional baseball players-Hank Arft with the old St. Louis Browns and Don "Red" Loehr with the St. Louis Cardinal Association.
Other activities of interest might include a visit to The Pointe.The Pointe is a state of the art recreation center featuring two full gymnasiums, an indoor track, full circuit weight system, cardiovascular equipment, free weight area, dance/aerobic studio, locker rooms, baby sitting room, concession area, game room and kids play area.
Ballwin also has several city parks including FerrisPark, The Pointe, NewBallwinPark, VlasisPark and HollowayPark.A comparison of each park´s offerings can be found here.
Ballwin also offers a variety of dining experiences including barbeque from Charlotte´s Rib BBQ.Charlotte´s Rib has been serving customers for over 20 years.For a more formal dining experience, try Harry´s West, serving up a variety of entrees including contemporary, New American, seafood and steakhouse.
Ballwin, located in the heart of WestSt. LouisCounty, provides access to all the major highways and is conveniently located near numerous shopping, entertainment and recreational facilities.
