Aug. 7, 2024

Lindbergh Schools and the Sappington-Concord Historical Society hosted a special meeting at the Concord Farmers Club on Aug. 7 to learn more about Lindbergh Schools’ plan to build a PK-12 Agricultural STEM learning center on this historic site in South County. 

Meeting attendees lined up lawn chairs on the old dance floor as chandelier-style lighting hung overhead, and members of the Historical Society shared memories of their families’ involvement with the Farmers Club, which was established in 1873, and served as a social landmark in the community for 148 years. Lindbergh Schools purchased the property in 2021, with plans to develop a real-world learning site for students.

Lindbergh Schools STEM Coordinator Doug Barton shared a brief presentation about the school district’s plan for Lindbergh Farmers Club, which is made possible through community support of Prop R 2024, a $150 million bond issue that will also support building equity across elementary schools, much needed middle school renovations and safety upgrades districtwide. Barton presented a timeline for program development and construction, which will culminate with a grand opening scheduled for Fall 2027.

Barton explained that the Farmers Club will be a home for place-based, connected learning that focuses on five key pathways: agriculture, agricultural technology, sustainability, entrepreneurship and the humanities. An essential part of the humanities pathway is learning about the history of farming in South St. Louis County and honoring the past in a way that is meaningful for students.

“As part of this project, we would like to work with students to curate a museum that celebrates the history of this property and the people who made the club what it is,” Barton said. “This is a great opportunity for our students to learn about the community, and to learn about the past.”

Following the district presentation, Karen Hurych of the Historical Society presented an in-depth history of Concord Farmers Club, and members shared memories of wedding receptions, dances, and Fish Fry events with Turtle Soup!

The Sappington-Concord Historical Society is seeking stories and photographs from the community related to the Farmers Club and farming history in South St. Louis County.