Maibaum Pole Legacy Project
About The Project
The Maibaum Pole Legacy Project celebrates the people, places, and traditions that have shaped Saint Charles while creating a lasting symbol of our community’s German heritage. Located in Frontier Park, the Maibaum features heritage emblems that tell the story of Saint Charles and recognize the history and character that make our community unique. Created as part of Saint Charles Oktoberfest’s 40th Anniversary, this permanent landmark is a gift to the community—honoring our past, celebrating the present, and preserving our heritage for generations to come.
Explore the Plaques
St. Charles Borromeo
Established in 1791, St. Charles Borromeo is recognized as the first Catholic parish in Saint Charles County and one of the earliest Catholic communities in Missouri. Its history reflects the deep French Catholic roots that helped shape the faith, culture, and identity of early Saint Charles.
First Permanent European Settlement
Founded by French-Canadian settler Louis Blanchette as Les Petites Côtes (“The Little Hills”), Saint Charles grew from a small Missouri River settlement into one of Missouri’s most historic communities. This plaque recognizes the beginning of the city that would become Saint Charles.
St. Charles Borromeo
Established in 1791, St. Charles Borromeo is recognized as the first Catholic parish in Saint Charles County and one of the earliest Catholic communities in Missouri. Its history reflects the deep French Catholic roots that helped shape the faith, culture, and identity of early Saint Charles.
Lewis & Clark Expedition
Saint Charles served as the final major staging point for the Lewis and Clark Expedition before the Corps of Discovery journeyed west. This plaque honors Saint Charles’ unique place in one of the most significant explorations in American history.
Frenchtown
Frenchtown reflects Saint Charles’ strong French heritage and the families, workers, and businesses that helped build the community north of Main Street. Its historic homes, streets, and neighborhood character preserve an important part of the city’s identity.
Sacred Heart
Founded in Saint Charles by St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, the Academy of the Sacred Heart became the first free school west of the Mississippi River and the first Sacred Heart school in the United States. Its founding began a remarkable legacy of faith and education in Saint Charles that continues more than two centuries later.
Missouri’s First State Capitol
When Missouri became a state, Saint Charles was selected to serve as its first state capital. From buildings that still stand on Main Street today, Missouri’s earliest legislators helped establish the government and laws of the new state.
Lindenwood University
Founded by George and Mary Easton Sibley, Lindenwood grew from an early school for young women into a university with a lasting impact on Saint Charles and the region. This plaque recognizes nearly two centuries of education, leadership, and service to the community.
German Immigration & Influence
German immigrants arriving during the 19th century profoundly influenced Saint Charles through their craftsmanship, businesses, churches, traditions, and community life. Their heritage remains visible throughout the city today and is especially fitting on a Maibaum rooted in German tradition.
Gateway for Westward Expansion Mid
Saint Charles’ location along the Missouri River made it an important stopping, trading, and supply point for those traveling west. This plaque recognizes the city’s important role in connecting communities and travelers with America’s expanding western frontier.
River & Railroad Boom Late
Steamboats and railroads helped transform Saint Charles into an important center for commerce, transportation, and travel. The former Katy Railroad corridor lives on today as the Katy Trail, connecting the city’s transportation history with its modern riverfront.
Franklin School — African American Education
Franklin School holds an important place in Saint Charles history and in the story of African American education. During segregation, Franklin became the only school in Saint Charles County serving African American students, educating generations of children from Saint Charles and surrounding communities. Its legacy represents education, perseverance, and the generations of students and educators who helped shape our community.
SSM Health
The arrival of the Sisters of St. Mary established a tradition of compassionate healthcare and service in Saint Charles that has continued for generations. This plaque honors the people and institutions that made caring for the health of the community an important part of the city’s legacy.
Historic Preservation
Saint Charles residents and community leaders made a deliberate commitment to protect the historic buildings, streets, and character that make the city unique. Their preservation efforts helped protect Historic Main Street and the riverfront while ensuring Saint Charles’ history remains visible for future generations.
Transportation & Missouri River Trade
The Missouri River has been central to Saint Charles since its earliest days, carrying people, goods, ideas, and opportunity through the community. This plaque recognizes the river, roads, bridges, and transportation systems that helped Saint Charles grow and connect with the region and nation.
Manufacturing & Industry
Generations of manufacturers, craftsmen, laborers, and local businesses helped build Saint Charles into a thriving working community. This plaque recognizes the industries and people whose innovation and hard work created jobs, strengthened families, and contributed to the city’s economic growth.
Leave Your Mark on St. Charles
Help bring a new piece of history to Frontier Park by supporting the Maibaum Project.
You can be part of this lasting community landmark by purchasing a personalized brick. Your contribution helps support the Maibaum, a new cultural landmark celebrating the history, heritage, and community of St. Charles.
Purchase a brick. Add your name, family, business, or special message. Be part of a legacy that will stand for generations.