Many people think the place they live is fit for a king, but Manchester took that saying to heart. The city derives its name from French nobility, which comes from its original French inhabitants. Manchester has been around for more than 200 years, and it has undergone a significant transformation since then. Once a rural community with roots in farming and agriculture, it is a happening city in the St. Louis metropolitan area today. Regardless of whether you're just stopping in for a brief visit or you are a resident looking to learn more about your city, there is never a shortage of attractions to check out in Manchester.
Manchester's Roots
There is evidence that the first explorers reached Manchester in the late 1600s. However, it was not until the 1800s that the city was officially settled. The first inhabitants were likely Native Americans, particularly of the Osage tribe. But Manchester's settlement is linked to French explorers, specifically two men named Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet. The explorers quickly accumulated land in the area. As with other parts of the nation, the city's growth was spurred by the arrival of the railroad. While the region's warm, relatively mild climate continued to support farming and agriculture, the railroad brought more industry, business, and tourism to the area. This influx of people and enterprises caused the community's population size to expand significantly. Although it began as a town, Manchester was incorporated as a city in 1951.
Today, Manchester is a city that is still rich in history, but it has many modern attractions, too. Its rural beginnings are still evident in the city's vast park system, which includes nearly ten parks that cover more than 60 acres. Manchester also has a quaint downtown center, and it is home to several institutes of higher education. Although the original railroad that served the area is no longer in operation, Manchester is served by many types of transportation today. These forms of transportation, which include the nearby St. Louis International Airport, have been instrumental in facilitating the city's growth, connectivity, and expansion in the past few decades.
Events and Activities
Each year, Manchester hosts many fun and engaging community events. From children's activities like an annual Easter Egg hunt to a craft beer festival and group exercise classes, there is something on the calendar that everyone can enjoy.
Craft Beer Festival
When the weather gets warm, what better way to cool down than with a cold, refreshing beer? Each May, the city hosts a craft beer festival that highlights products from local breweries. There are more than 20 craft breweries represented at the festival. Collectively, they cover many types of beer. There is also an abundance of food at the beer festival. Special beers are on tap throughout the festival, and there is also a window of time for unlimited tastings. Proceeds from the event benefit a local shelter.
Summer Concert Series
Missouri loves its music, which means that you will always find a musical event on the community calendar. The city's famous summer concert series kicks off in early June. The event is free to the public, and everyone is encouraged to bring family and friends. The event takes place in Schroeder Park. Concerts are held outdoors, which means they'll be rescheduled in case of rain. A rotating list of musicians ensures that there is always a new and exciting act to look forward to.
4th of July Celebration
Each year on the 4th of July, Manchester celebrates the nation's independence in a big way. This event also takes place in Schroeder Park. The ceremony begins with a musical performance, and a fireworks display follows it. Residents are encouraged to bring their blankets and lawn chairs for the celebration. A tasty selection of food and beverages is available for sale at the park. A grand display of fireworks, which starts around 10:00 PM, brings the fun-filled evening to a close.
Manchester's continued growth means that more open spaces are being converted to developments and office buildings. However, you can still retain elements of Manchester's rich agricultural past by keeping your own yard in top shape. Maybe you've decided that this season, you want to revamp your lawn or perhaps your property could use some landscaping and trimming. No matter what your needs are, contact Lawn Love for expert lawn care services.
