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Historic St. Louis County is the home of the Jefferson Barracks, a short drive away from Fenton. The Barracks, named in honor of Thomas Jefferson, were established in 1826 as the country’s first “Infantry School of Practice.” The Barracks was the first Army Air Corps basic training site and served as a major military installation until 1946. Stephan W. Kearny, Zachary Taylor, Jefferson Davis, Robert E. Lee, Ulysses S. Grant, William T. Sherman and Philip Sheridan are some of the famous Americans who served at the barracks. Jefferson Barracks was also a gathering point for troops and supplies bound for service in various Indian conflicts, as well as the Mexican, Civil, Spanish-American, Philippine and World wars.
Fenton residents also have easy access to all the parks and recreational opportunities of Jefferson County. The county’s many parks offer great recreation and a rich history. Visitors can fish the Big River at Morse Mill Park or watch the water cascade over the Old Mill Dam, float down the river in an inner tube or canoe to Cedar Hill Park more than 10 miles downstream. The Fletcher House was built in 1851 by Thomas E. Fletcher. The house is operated as a "House Museum" by Jefferson County Parks and Recreation Department and the Fletcher House Foundation. The Northwest Jefferson County Sports Complex provides ball fields on a 20-acre site. Youth instructional soccer programs and summer soccer camps are held here. Take a quiet walk in the 40-acre Pleasant Valley Nature Preserve. Enjoy a picnic, play at the playground, or hike the miles of trails offering views of wildflowers and animals. |
