Not many staircases in public buildings have been in daily use for 170 years.
An exception would be the one in the east wing of St. Louis’ Old Courthouse. Installed when the 1828 courthouse building was replaced, it is believed to have been installed in 1854. The staircase is iron, ascends 32 feet from the first to third floors, and is entirely supported by embedding into the wall.
Look Ma! No posts!
More than once I’ve climbed these steps in one of my favorite downtown buildings. Twice, I’ve gathered the courage to climb a different set of iron stairs to take in a closer view of the rotunda decorations. (I’m timid with heights — it’s a l-ooo-ong way down.)
The sweet romance, New Dreams, takes place in 1851 – the year St. Louis got serious about replacing the 1828 section of the courthouse. The city was busy — steamboats bringing arrivals from Europe and many of the Eastern states. Join two of these European newcomers as they collect first impressions of America. Click on the link for the complete blurb and purchase information. https://amzn.to/3vWydWE
