Building the Dream

Why is the Arch here? How was it built?

shiny steel display of monitors in gallery — National Park Service, Tom Dewey

By the 1930s, railroads absorbed a large share of the freight once shipped by river and businesses relocated from the riverfront. Two years after World War II, the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Association sponsored an architectural competition to revive the riverfront. Learn how the Gateway Arch became a reality. When Eero Saarinen’s design was chosen, no one had ever built anything like it. Discover the innovative builders who created the monument.

Stories Related To This Gallery

True Mid Century Modern Architecture
Gateway Arch Architecture

Learn about Eero Saarinen and the building of the Gateway Arch.
What else could've been built here?
The Architectural Competition

Look through the drawings entered in the 1947-1948 architectural design competition. What would you have entered?
Give us a concept in two weeks!
Dick Bowser, Inventor of the Tram

The tram system was custom-made for the unique constraints of the Gateway Arch. Learn about the fascinating man who made it happen.

Last updated: August 22, 2025

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Building the Dream

Why is the Arch here? How was it built?

Stories Related To This Gallery

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Contact Us

Building the Dream

Why is the Arch here? How was it built?

Stories Related To This Gallery

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Phone:

Contact Us

Tools

Stay Connected