Ferguson, MO
County: St. Louis
History
Ferguson, Missouri is a suburb located in St. Louis County, Missouri, in the United States. The city is named after William B. Ferguson, a landowner who laid out the original town in 1855.
Ferguson's early history was closely tied to the expansion of the railroad in the mid-19th century, as it became a convenient stop along the Wabash Railroad route connecting St. Louis and Kansas City. This helped spur economic growth and development in the area, attracting settlers and businesses to establish themselves in Ferguson.
In the late 1800s, Ferguson began to experience significant growth and development. The town had a thriving downtown area with shops, hotels, and factories. It also had a streetcar line that connected Ferguson to St. Louis, making it an attractive place to live for those who worked in the city.
Throughout the 20th century, Ferguson continued to grow and develop with a strong manufacturing and industrial sector. However, like many other cities in the region, Ferguson faced challenges as industries declined and populations shifted. By the late 20th century, Ferguson, like many inner-ring suburbs, experienced racial and economic demographic shifts.
However, it was not until 2014 that the city gained national attention. The shooting of Michael Brown, an unarmed black teenager, by a white police officer on August 9, 2014, sparked widespread protests and unrest in the city. Demonstrators called for justice and an end to racial profiling and police brutality. The events in Ferguson sparked a national conversation about race relations, police misconduct, and inequality in the criminal justice system.
Since the events of 2014, Ferguson has made efforts to address the concerns raised by the protests. The city has implemented various reforms, including changes in its police department, court system, and city government, aimed at promoting transparency, fairness, and accountability.
Today, Ferguson continues to recover and rebuild, working towards healing and reconciliation. The city seeks to celebrate its diversity and create opportunities for economic development and community empowerment. It remains an important part of the St. Louis metropolitan area, playing a vital role in the region's history and future.
Attractions
Ferguson Brewing Company
A local brewery known for its craft beers and delicious food.
January Wabash Park
A small community park with a playground, basketball courts, and picnic areas.
Cave Springs Lanes
A family-friendly bowling alley offering good food, live music, and fun events.
Historic Main Street
A charming street with quaint shops, restaurants, and local businesses.
Jeske Sculpture Park
A unique outdoor park featuring contemporary sculptures and artwork.
Steinberg Skating Rink
An outdoor ice skating rink that offers open skating sessions, lessons, and special events.
Emerson Performance Center
A venue that hosts various performances, including live music, plays, and dance shows.
Old Ferguson West Historic District
A well-preserved historic district with beautiful Victorian-era houses and architecture.
Wellspring Church
A community-focused church that offers worship services and organizes various events and programs.
Little Creek Nature Area
A small forested area with walking trails and picnic spots, perfect for nature lovers.
These are just a few of the attractions you can explore in Ferguson, MO.
Climate
Ferguson, Missouri has a humid continental climate, which means it experiences all four distinct seasons throughout the year. Here is a breakdown of the climate in Ferguson:
Summer (June to August)
Summers in Ferguson are typically hot and humid with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 29-35 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels can be quite high, making the weather feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are relatively common during this season.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn in Ferguson brings cooler temperatures, with highs usually ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 18-24 degrees Celsius). Nights can be quite chilly, especially in the later months, with temperatures dropping into the 40s Fahrenheit (around 4-9 degrees Celsius).
Winter (December to February)
Winters in Ferguson are cold and often snowy. Average temperatures range from the 30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 0-8 degrees Celsius), with occasional dips below freezing. Snowfall can vary but typically ranges from a few inches to several feet throughout the season.
Spring (March to May)
Springs in Ferguson are mild with gradually increasing temperatures. Highs range from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 13-23 degrees Celsius). This season can bring occasional rain showers and thunderstorms, but overall, the weather becomes more pleasant.
It's important to note that these temperature ranges are approximate and can vary from year to year. Additionally, extreme weather events like heatwaves, severe storms, or heavy snowfalls can occur occasionally, impacting the normal climate patterns.
Neighborhoods
Ferguson, Missouri is a suburb located in St. Louis County. The city is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and demographics. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Ferguson:
Ferguson Downtown
The downtown area of Ferguson is the heart of the city and serves as its commercial center. It is filled with small businesses, shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. This neighborhood is known for its lively atmosphere and community events.
North Ferguson
Located in the northern part of the city, this neighborhood is primarily residential. It is characterized by tree-lined streets and a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartment complexes. North Ferguson is home to a diverse population and has a strong sense of community.
Walnut Grove
Situated on the southwestern side of Ferguson, Walnut Grove is a residential neighborhood close to Forestwood Park. It features a mix of housing styles, including ranch-style homes and bungalows. This neighborhood is known for its quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere.
Sherwood Place
Located in the southeast corner of Ferguson, Sherwood Place is a predominantly residential neighborhood. It offers affordable housing options and has a diverse population. It is known for its proximity to local schools and parks, making it popular among families.
Airport Road
Situated in the western part of Ferguson, Airport Road is a mixed-use neighborhood with residential and commercial areas. It is named after its close proximity to Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. The neighborhood offers a range of housing options and is known for its easy access to major highways.
Canfield Green
Canfield Green is an apartment complex located in Ferguson, just east of the downtown area. It gained national attention in 2014 following the shooting of Michael Brown, which sparked protests and civil unrest in the city. The neighborhood has since undergone various community-driven initiatives to rebuild and strengthen community bonds.
These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods in Ferguson. Each neighborhood brings its own unique charm and diversity to the city, contributing to the overall character and sense of community in Ferguson, Missouri.