Community

More than a century ago, there were St. Louis names that would become well known to local residents: Busch, Erker, Lemp, Cramer, Mayer, Stix, Stifel and many others. These prominent St. Louisans and the Founders of the Altenheim, joined together to provide a comfortable and caring haven to St. Louis’ elderly, regardless of their religious or cultural background, and who could no longer maintain a home.

However, the catalyst behind the development of a residence for the elderly resulted from the extraordinary vision of six women who decided to issue a “General Appeal to German Women of the Community.” Thus, the Ladies Society of the Saint Louis Altenheim was officially established.

From this start, the founders purchased the historic Chouteau mansion on the scenic bluffs of the Mississippi River and made some renovations before the first Altenheim residents moved in.

The Ladies Society, conceived by six extraordinary women more than a century ago, has evolved into the Altenheim Society, which remains active today. The Society includes men and women, families and friends of residents, both current and past who volunteer their time and services to help residents feel at home. They have become our residents extended family.