The Dogtown Historical Society will present a photographic trip back to the days when the Forest Park Highlands was the largest amusement park in St. Louis. If you grew up in St. Louis in the 1930’s, 40’s, or 50’s, you may recall looking forward to school picnics or family gatherings at the Forest Park Highlands, and you may have your own memories of the penny arcade, the fun house, and the thrill rides, such as the Comet, the Flying Turns, or the Rockets. You may even be lucky enough to have old photos of summers there and have collectables from the beer garden, the swimming pool, or the band concerts.

Please join us on Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 7:00 p.m. in the St. James School Cafeteria, 1360 Tamm Ave., for this very special presentation: THE FOREST PARK HIGHLANDS. Admission is free, and refreshments will be served.

Our speaker, Doug Garner, spent his early childhood in Berkeley, Missouri, within two miles of four amusement parks. Garner has been doing research on his favorite amusement parks, with emphasis on the Forest Park Highlands, since he was a teenager. He developed a love of roller coasters and amusement parks and his passion continues to this day. Mr. Garner, who lives now in Washington, D.C. will make a special trip to St. Louis for this lecture.

The presentation will include slides of the many wonderful photos and postcards Garner has collected. He will also display memorabilia that he has received from others who share his interest for the wonderful Forest Park Highlands. Check out Doug’s Web Site for some marvelous photos and more details.

This presentation is underwritten to honor Milt and Nina Kassing, Amelia and Bill Kassing, and Ludwig and Anna Reichel Steinrauf, former residents of Dogtown.

The Dogtown Historical Society is a non-profit organization established in Missouri in 2002. Click here for more information on the Dogtown Historical Society.