Arnold Historical Society

Arnold is a community of both small town virtues and big city excitement. Arnold's history runs as deep as the two mighty rivers that wind their way by it. Prior to European settlement, Osage, Shawnee, Cherokee, Delaware and Seneca Indians were drawn to the fertile soils, abundant game and rich waterways of the area. In the early to mid-1800's Germans turned the rich soil of the area into bountiful cropland. The first church in the area, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, was established in 1840. Eight years later St. John's Lutheran Church was formed. During this time, what would become Arnold was a patchwork of small settlements. In 1972 Arnold was incorporated, keeping its history alive with the consolidation of the six townships named after those early settlements: Beck, Flamm City, Maxville, Old Town Arnold, Tenbrook and Wickes.

Just 15 miles to its north is the glitter of downtown St. Louis. Just minutes to the south is the gateway to Missouri's majestic Ozarks. Resting comfortably in between, the people of Arnold enjoy a blend of cosmopolitan and rural lifestyles. It is not surprising that more people and businesses are discovering that Arnold offers the best of both worlds. The talk in Arnold is of strong community, education, growth and friendliness.

Symbolic of Arnold's commitment to its growing community is the modern municipal complex housing city hall, the municipal court and police department. The city is governed by a mayor and eight council members. A city administrator manages its daily affairs. The police department includes more than 48 officers. Three fire stations provided by the Rock Community Fire Protection District serve Arnold residents with more than 30 full-time personnel. All of its rescue trucks are manned by emergency medical personnel.

With its lush trees and scenic rivers Arnold has unrivaled beauty in the metropolitan St. Louis area. New subdivisions with quality-crafted homes are being developed to suit diverse lifestyles. Beautiful churches of many denominations bless our City. One of Arnold's most prominent points of pride is its school system. The Fox C-6 School District is known for its quality education and excellence. The city's four parks are ideal for quiet getaways and family outings. A fantastic Community Recreation Complex offers swimming, fitness and sports facilties.

Arnold continues to progress and provide a quality community to work, live and raise a family while maintaining that small town atmosphere. Looking at the current and future projects, it appears the best is yet to come in Arnold, Missouri.