Fullerton's Westminster Place

Last week's cooler weather prompted me to get on my bike and revisit parts of the neighborhood that aren't on my usual route. That's how I rediscovered the beauty of the 4300 & 4400 blocks of Westminster Place and the lush plantings in the cul-de-sacs that border Taylor at the west end, and Boyle on the east. 

Fullerton's Westminster Place was developed between 1902 and 1909 by General Joseph Scott Fullerton (see history here). In 1974, after a rough patch during the late 60's and early 70's (some of the mansions had become rooming houses), the street was included in the CWE's Historic District, which helped promote and protect this valuable part of St. Louis' architectural heritage. Westminster Place houses have always been among the prettiest in the neighborhood, and there is a definite pride that's exhibited by the perfectly restored and maintained houses, and beautiful front yards.

The cul-de-sacs were designed by Westminster Place resident and garden designer Katie Delmez. For the last four years William Wells & Trevor Acton of Wells & Acton Horticulture have added plantings to the original design and maintained the gardens.

Obviously, the key to maintaining landscaping in hard-to-reach places is irrigation. Both cul-de-sacs have in-ground sprinkler systems.

Residents have  placed memorial markers in the west garden. One is situated beneath the stone bench, right; and another, dedicated to Jacqueline Tatom, rests underneath a Japanese Maple.

 

 

 

Because the available land at the east end at Boyle is narrower than its western counterpart, it isn't as densely planted but is just as handsome and well cared for.

 

A new 30' roundabout was recently completed in the intersection between the 4300 and 4400 blocks of Westminster, above. The handsome addition was financed by the Cathedral Square Special Business District with additional funding from the City of St. Louis via Alderman Lyda Krewson. (FYI, the CSSBD extends from Lindell to Westminster, and Taylor to Boyle.)

In a spirit of neighborly cooperation the Cathedral Square Special Business District coordinated with The Greystone (at McPherson & Newstead) to update the electrical system in the Greystone's poolhouse in exchange for water and power for lighting and irrigation in the roundabout. Irrigation was also extended to the little triangular park at Newstead and McPherson, which has made tireless gardener and McPherson resident Wade Crowder's life as chief water bearer a lot easier.

Comments

[Katie]

These are two of my favorite blocks in the neighborhood! I "discovered" them not long after we moved to the CWE; as a STL native, I was floored to find them - I'd never known they were there. The beautiful houses, mature trees and lovely cul de sac gardens keep them on my route for neighborhood strolls; whomever designed the new roundabout plantings did a wonderful job. I'm curious about the property at the easternmost end of the south block, though - it appears to be owned by a religious organization, perhaps a retreat center or a home for retired clergy members or something. Do you know, Nicki?

[Nicki]

The Daughters of Charity occupy that beautiful property. I am hoping to be able to post a story about the order sometime soon but am waiting for permission to do so. Thanks so much for your comments, Katie.

[Lyda Krewson]

Fullerton's Westminster Place is really a gem! Beautiful street... and great folks. Can you believe how good their landscaping looks considering the horrendous heat and drought we have had this summer!