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Historical September–October 2022 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
If you were a resident of Skinker DeBaliviere in 1972 you can remember the conditions in the U City Loop. For those not born in 1972 or those who came here in more recent times, we offer a little history. Throughout U.S. urban areas 50 years ago, the federal government, insurance companies, and chain businesses disinvested in any areas undergoing integration. White areas, under these circumstances, often quickly became black areas.
In 1972, the U City Loop showed clear disinvestment. At least half the storefronts were vacant. Enter two young people who decided to do something there that went on to alter the trajectory of the Loop. Joe Edwards had returned home from college at Duke and was at loose ends.
His wife Linda had grown up on 6000 Pershing . Edwards decided to try to open a place that featured music, drinks, and food (especially burgers!).
He was able to find a couple investors to cover the initial investment.
As the accompanying photo shows, Blueberry Hill was much smaller then. Adopting the name of a classic Fats Domino song, this quixotic venture succeeded. Artist Linda Edwards decorated the windows of the venue which attracted considerable attention.
They even produced rock and roll beer for a time! Many years later, they enticed rock and roll legend Chuck Berry to perform once a month in the Duck Room, which has been a mainstay of the local music scene.
As Joe Edwards has noted, turning things around takes considerable time. Blueberry Hill succeeded to some people’s amazement.
A business association was formed in the Loop. Joe and Linda Edwards made things happen. Joe Edwards ran a tight ship: no hassling unaccompanied women, acting quickly on any neighbor complaints re noise, etc. Blueberry Hill proved to be a key catalyst for the redevelopment of Delmar in U City, and Joe extended that magic across Skinker almost three decades later. Working again with neighbors and fellow businesses (especially the Delmar Commercial Committee and yours truly), Joe built the Moonrise Hotel, with a fanciful decor and wonderful views from the rooftop bar with the “world’s largest Moon”. Joe and partner Pat Hagin made the Pageant a world-renowned reality.
They created Delmar Hall and many other rehabs nearby.
Then there’s the fabulous St. Louis Walk of Fame, linking the City and U City into one seamless Loop. And later this year, we’ll see completion of another exciting Joe Edwards development next to the totally renovated former Olivet church, quite an accomplishment during a pandemic.
Original photograph caption
Blueberry Hill in 1975.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, September–October 2022.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times2022_09.pdf, printed page(s) 1; PDF page(s) 1.
