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History

Richmond Heights’ rich heritage has played a large role in influencing the community’s progressive outlook, giving rise to its persistent dedication in such areas as education, business and residential development, healthcare and overall community vitality now and for the future. This distinct commitment shines through many of the City’s aspects — from the acclaimed Richmond Heights community center to the innumerable services and resources provided through such significant entities as the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Richmond Heights government. Standing as one of the region’s in-demand communities, it’s no wonder nearly 10,000 people and a multitude of businesses have established Richmond Heights as their permanent residence.

As legend explains it, Robert E. Lee happened upon the land that now makes up current-day Richmond Heights after being stationed in St. Louis with the Army Corps of Engineers before the Civil War. Lee was in awe of the area’s natural beauty, which reflected the beauty of the city of Richmond, Virginia — his home state. From this comment, the name Richmond was born. “Heights” was added to the community name at a later time due to the fact that its land sits among the highest in St. Louis County.

Area historical authorities have connected the beginning of the City’s development to a substantial section of land that, at one point, was owned by Frederick Neisen, a well-to-do real estate man from St. Louis. Neisen initially acquired the land from Arman Francois Robert, the Count of Giverville of the Cabanne family. After obtaining this piece of land in 1892, Neisen constructed a “mansion,” which was located at what is now the intersection of Dale and Bellevue Avenues. Several families joined him in the area during the next decade or so.

The 1904 World’s Fair brought in John Rankin Dyer, a developer who purchased 120 acres just south of Neisen’s property. Over the years, Neisen and Dyer worked together to develop more homes in the area. By Richmond Heights’ incorporation on December 29, 1913, the area was home to a population of 500 — the rest is history.

Prominent residents who have called Richmond Heights home include aviator Charles Lindbergh, engineer Leif Sverdrup, musician Chuck Berry, sportscaster Jack Buck and sculptor Ernest Trova.