In the late 1800s, an eccentric inventor and long-time riverman built a home next to the Mississippi River near Minneiska, Minnesota. Putnam Gray's home was so unique that people talked about it for decades, and people like me are still fascinated by it today. Gray was born in Ohio in 1833 and began working
Population (2010) 2,819 Introduction Once a bustling port at the confluence of two of the biggest rivers in the US, Cairo (pronounced CARE-o) today is a shell of its former self. The reasons for its shocking decline aren’t too hard to figure out. History The
Population (2010) 603 Introduction Prairie du Rocher is another of the old French colonial settlements in the American Bottom. Today, it is also a popular stop for day-trippers and bikers (motorized and not) out for a ride on warm weekend days. History Founded in 1722
Population (2010) 499 Introduction Another remnant of the French Colonial influence in the region, East Carondelet today is a modest small town with a tall levee as its next-door neighbor. History Like its neighbors at Dupo and Cahokia, East Carondelet is in an are that
Population (2010) 15,241 Introduction Cahokia is the exception to the industry-dominated towns in St. Louis’ Metro East. Established in 1699 by French-Canadian missionaries, Cahokia was the first European settlement on the Mississippi River—it is older than New Orleans and St. Louis—it has just had a different trajectory since its
Population (2010) 8,580 Introduction An old river town, most of which sits atop a bluff high above the river, Chester draws visitors in with its Popeye-themed attractions, but it is also near a collection of old French Colonial villages and some good hiking. Visitor Information
