About Us

McKinley Heights, located on the near South Side of St. Louis, Missouri, is a neighborhood with a rich history that reflects the broader narrative of the city's development.
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Early Settlement and Development
‍The area now known as McKinley Heights was first subdivided in 1848 and 1859. Initially, it developed as a working-class neighborhood, primarily settled by German immigrants. These early residents established a community characterized by modest, yet sturdy, two-story brick homes. The architectural styles prevalent during this period included Italianate and Second Empire designs, which remain evident in the neighborhood's historic structures.

Transition and Demographic Shifts
‍Around the turn of the 20th century, McKinley Heights experienced a demographic transition. While it began as a predominantly German neighborhood, it soon saw an influx of Serbian and Russian immigrants. This shift contributed to the cultural and social diversity of the area, enriching its communal fabric.

Architectural Evolution
‍The neighborhood's architectural landscape evolved alongside its demographic changes. Between 1865 and 1931, a variety of residential and commercial buildings were constructed, with the majority built between 1900 and 1915. This period saw the introduction of new architectural styles and the expansion of housing to accommodate the growing population. The consistent scale and design of these structures lend a uniformity to the neighborhood, contributing to its historic charm.

Historic Designations and Preservation Efforts
‍In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, McKinley Heights was designated as the McKinley-Fox National Register Historic District in 1984. Further solidifying its commitment to preservation, it became a local historic district in 2008. These designations have helped protect the neighborhood's unique character and promote restoration efforts.

Community and Cultural Institutions
‍The neighborhood is home to several notable institutions that reflect its diverse heritage. For instance, the Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church serves as a cultural and spiritual center for the Serbian community. Additionally, McKinley Classical Leadership Academy, a 6th-12th grade school, is located within the neighborhood, contributing to its educational landscape.

Modern Developments and Community Initiatives
‍In recent years, McKinley Heights has seen various community-driven initiatives aimed at revitalization and engagement. Projects such as McKinley Meadows, an urban edible forest, have transformed vacant lots into productive community spaces. These efforts not only beautify the neighborhood but also foster a sense of community and shared purpose among residents.

McKinley Heights stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of cultures and histories that define St. Louis. Its blend of historic architecture, cultural institutions, and community initiatives make it a unique and vibrant part of the city.

Religious Institutions

Al Taqwa Islamic Center

1947 Gravois Ave

Al Taqwa Islamic Center, located in McKinley Heights, was established in 2016 as a community-focused nonprofit. It provides daily prayers, Islamic education, and community services. Al Taqwa continues to serve as a hub for local Islamic life, fostering education, worship, and community connections.

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Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church

1910 Serbian Dr

Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church, located in McKinley Heights, was established in 1909 by Serbian immigrants. The church purchased its first property in 1911 and moved to its current McNair and Geyer Avenue location in 1928. Over the decades, Holy Trinity became a vital community hub, aiding immigrants and celebrating Serbian culture, including hosting the annual SerbFest since 1987.

Quba Masjid

1925 Allen Ave

Quba Masjid, located in McKinley Heights, was established when the Qooba Foundation acquired property at 2008 Jefferson Avenue in 2012. The mosque serves the local Muslim community as a space for worship, community gatherings, and spiritual growth.

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St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church

1901 Ann Ave

St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church, located at 1901 Ann Avenue in St. Louis' McKinley Heights neighborhood, was founded in 1909 to serve immigrants from Russia, Serbia, Croatia, and other Eastern European countries. The current Byzantine-style building was completed in 1929 and features a distinctive dome. Today, the church is a parish of the Orthodox Church in America, offering services in English and engaging in various community ministries.

Schools

McKinley Classical Leadership Academy

2156 Russell Blvd

McKinley Classical Leadership Academy, situated at 2156 Russell Boulevard in St. Louis' McKinley Heights neighborhood, was established in 1904 as McKinley High School, the first comprehensive public high school in south St. Louis. After closing in 1988, it reopened as a magnet middle school in the 1990s and expanded to include a high school program in 2007. The academy serves gifted and talented students in grades 6–12, offering a rigorous curriculum with Advanced Placement courses and a focus on leadership development. Notably, McKinley has earned College Success Awards in 2019 and 2022 for its effectiveness in preparing students for higher education.

Sigel Elementary School

2050 Allen Ave

Sigel Elementary School, located at 2050 Allen Avenue in St. Louis' McKinley Heights neighborhood, was constructed in 1905 and named after Franz Sigel. Designed by architect William B. Ittner, the building showcases Italian Romanesque Revival influences, characterized by minimal use of decorative terracotta and ornamentation created through brickwork. The school continues to operate as an elementary institution within the St. Louis Public Schools system, serving students from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade.