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After 50 years, Gateway Arch remains iconic symbol of St. Louis and Missouri, Gov. Nixon says

Exterior of Arch was completed 50 years ago today; Governor’s proclamation recognizes significance of tallest national monument in U.S.

JEFFERSON CITY – The Gateway Arch has made the St. Louis skyline instantly recognizable around the world and is a lasting symbol of Missouri, Gov. Jay Nixon said today on the 50th anniversary of iconic stainless steel structure. It was on Oct. 28, 1965, that more than 10,000 people attended a riverfront ceremony hosted by then-St. Louis Mayor A.J. Cervantes to celebrate the completion of the Arch exterior.

Gov. Nixon issued a proclamation on behalf of the State of Missouri to honor the occasion. Celebrations as part of the Arch 50 Fest have been taking place in St. Louis this month as well to mark the anniversary.

“More than four million visitors from around the world come to the Arch each year, because it is a uniquely St. Louis and Missouri experience,” the Governor said. “Missourians are rightly proud that this monument has been so strongly associated with the Show-Me State for half a century and will be for many years to come.”

At 630 feet tall, the St. Louis Gateway Arch is the tallest arch in the world as well as the tallest national monument in the United States; it is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. It was designed by architect Eero Saarinen.