Olivette, MO
County: St. Louis
History
Olivette is a city located in St. Louis County, Missouri, United States. The history of Olivette dates back to the early 19th century when European settlers started moving into the area. The land that would become Olivette was originally a part of Spanish and later French colonial territories.
The area began to be developed in the 1850s when Benjamin Olive, a prominent St. Louis lawyer, purchased land in the region. Olive built a country estate on his property and named it "Olivette," which was derived from his last name.
In the late 19th century, the area experienced growth with the expansion of the railroad network, which led to the development of small communities. Olivette remained a rural area with 36 farms well into the 20th century. However, the construction of Interstate 170 in the 1950s dramatically changed the landscape and character of the city.
The post-World War II era marked significant development in Olivette. The town experienced a surge in population and suburbanization along with the surrounding areas. New housing subdivisions were built, attracting young families who desired a suburban lifestyle close to St. Louis.
Incorporated as a city in 1930, Olivette continued to grow in the latter half of the 20th century. In 1974, Olivette joined the cooperative agreement with 23 other municipalities to form the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District, which aimed to maintain and improve sewer systems in the region.
Over the years, Olivette has focused on maintaining and improving its infrastructure, schools, and amenities. The city has several parks and recreational facilities, including the Olivette Community Center and Stacy Park. In recent years, there has been a push for redevelopment and revitalization efforts to enhance the city's economic growth and quality of life.
Today, Olivette is a thriving suburban community with a diverse population and a rich history. It continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its residents while preserving its small-town charm.
Attractions
Bellerive Country Club
A prestigious golf course historically hosting major tournaments.
Millennium Park
A well-maintained park with walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
University City Farmers Market
A popular weekly farmers market offering fresh produce, local products, and food vendors.
Memorial Park
A community park with tennis courts, sports fields, and a playground.
The Family Arena
A multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sporting events, and family entertainment.
Olivette Lanes
A bowling alley with a retro vibe, offering public bowling, leagues, and arcade games.
Sugar Creek Park
A small park with a stream, fishing ponds, and walking trails.
Midland Valley Trail
A scenic walking and biking trail that stretches through multiple communities, including Olivette.
Olivette Ice Rink
An ice-skating rink offering public skating, hockey leagues, and ice-skating lessons.
The Magic House at MADE
A children's museum focused on creativity, design, and innovation.
Climate
Olivette, Missouri experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (26-32 degrees Celsius). The region can also experience occasional heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).
Winters in Olivette tend to be cold, with average temperatures in the low to mid-30s Fahrenheit (-1 to 3 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, particularly during the winter months, with December and January being the snowiest months.
Spring and autumn in Olivette are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-25 degrees Celsius). These seasons can vary in terms of weather conditions, with spring bringing occasional thunderstorms and rainfall, while autumn experiences cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage colors.
Overall, Olivette experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of around 40 inches (1016 millimeters). However, the area is prone to occasional severe weather, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and heavy snowfall in the winter.
It's worth noting that this information is a general overview of the climate in Olivette, MO, and weather patterns can vary from year to year. It is always advisable to check current weather forecasts and local sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Neighborhoods
Olivette is a small suburban city located in St. Louis County, Missouri. It is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, strong sense of community, and convenient location. While Olivette is relatively small, it has several distinctive neighborhoods that offer different amenities and characteristics.
Dielman
Dielman is one of the oldest and most established neighborhoods in Olivette. It features tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and well-manicured lawns. The area is closely knit and has a mix of older and more recently constructed houses.
Olive Lake Estates
Olive Lake Estates is a newer neighborhood located in the southern part of Olivette. It is characterized by larger custom-built homes with modern amenities. Many of the houses in this area overlook scenic lakes and ponds, adding to the overall charm of the neighborhood.
Pine Lawn
Located in the northwestern part of the city, Pine Lawn is primarily a residential area with a mix of housing styles. It is known for its quiet streets and large lots. Pine Lawn offers a more suburban feel compared to other areas of Olivette.
Warson Woods
Although technically a separate municipality, part of the Warson Woods neighborhood is located within Olivette's boundaries. Warson Woods features tree-lined streets, large homes, and a strong sense of community. Residents here have access to amenities such as parks, recreation areas, and a community pool.
Old Bonhomme
Old Bonhomme is another well-established neighborhood in Olivette. It is named after Old Bonhomme Road, a historic street that runs through the area. The neighborhood is characterized by a mix of architectural styles, including traditional ranch-style homes and newer custom builds. Old Bonhomme is known for its peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere.
Lorraine
Lorraine is a small, tranquil neighborhood tucked away in eastern Olivette. It features a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. Lorraine has a close-knit community feel and is known for its well-maintained properties.
Each neighborhood in Olivette offers its own unique charm and amenities, making it a desirable place to live for families and individuals seeking a suburban lifestyle with convenient access to the amenities of the St. Louis metropolitan area.