#31: Wainwright Building

When people hear the name Wainwright, they probably think of the Cardinals starting pitcher Adam Wainwright. St. Louis happens to celebrate another famous Wainwright, Ellis Wainwright. He was a famous brewer; in fact, one of the most popular at the time (this was in the 1890s). Wainwright needed more space, mostly office-type. He recruited famed architects Dankmar Adler and Louis Sullivan for his project.

The finished product in 1891 became one of the buildings that helped change not only America, but the world. It is known as one of 'America's first modern skyscrapers'. Of course, it would be laughed upon today as it stands 10 stories tall. But just picture yourself 120 years ago. One would be amazed at how tall a building can be, just by pushing the limits. There have been skyscrapers in New York City and Chicago at that time, but more like, say, wedding cake style.

Today, the Wainwright building holds government offices, mostly by the state government. Times have not always been easy as it had similar-styled buildings next to it. Those buildings have been torn down as different-styled ones rose about (including a parking garage). At one time, it was rescued from demolition by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Wikipedia link

111 7th St., ST. LOUIS, MO, 63101
Cake artist: Carey Seven