#138: Lyon Park/United States Arsenal

I parked my truck right behind the park and in front of the well-secured United States Arsenal so I can do my own walking, scenic tour of the southern part of Soulard. This was my first stop.

Monument dedication to Nathaniel Lyon at the park

Unfortunately I didn't find very much to take pictures of, except for the Anheuser-Busch brewery next door. Here are some facts about Lyon Park:

• Named for Nathaniel Lyon, who was the first Union general to die during the Civil War (1861).
• Park consists of two ball diamonds, walking trails, and statues. Not surprisingly, they are mostly used by Anheuser-Busch employees.
• Lyon Park is 10.92 acres.
• The park was dedicated in 1869, under the condition from the government that they build a monument dedicated to Lyon. The monument was eventually dedicated in 1874.
• There is also a monument with Gen. Lyon on horseback at the northwest corner of the park.

The United States Arsenal, while historic, is still being used as a U.S. Air Force facility. It is used for mapping purposes. Unfortunately, it is restricted. Some of the buildings that were used during the Civil War still exist. 

Top of the cake

Right side of the cake

Back side of the cake

Left side of the cake

Wikipedia link
Official website from St. Louis' Parks website

3100 South Broadway, ST. LOUIS, MO, 63118
Cake artist: Rich Brooks

The cake was sold on 1/1/2015 for $480. It is however, still in public view, and as of 8/24/2016, it is located at Crown Square, temporarily.