A Cultural Hub
The Sheldon Concert Hall and Galleries is a cultural hub located in St. Louis' Grand Center Arts District.
For over 100 years, The Sheldon has been beloved and adored. At times, it’s even been saved by community heroes whose generosity is only matched by their passion. We’ve remained steadfast in our belief that shared creative experiences are the ties that bind. That true human expression transcends age, class, race and creed.
Our History
The Sheldon Memorial is Built
1912
The Sheldon Memorial, designed by 1904 World’s Fair architect Louis Spiering, opens its doors in October 1912 as the home of the Ethical Society of St. Louis. Named for Walter Sheldon, a founding member of the Ethical Society in St. Louis, notable speakers include Thurgood Marshall, Buckminster Fuller, Martha Gellhorn and Margaret Mead.
The same year, the St. Louis League of Women Voters is founded in what is now the Mary Pillsbury Greenroom (then used as the Ethical Society library).
The Ethical Society Moves
1964-1984
The Ethical Society moves to St. Louis County and The Sheldon becomes a community center and music venue, changing hands a few times.
First, a former singer with the Duke Ellington Orchestra purchases the facility, transforming The Sheldon into a church and the site of many jazz and gospel concerts.
Then, a California attorney with a love of chamber music purchases The Sheldon at the urging of the Paganini String Quartet, saving the building from possible demolition.
1986
The Sheldon Concert Hall becomes a concert venue.
1988
The non-profit Sheldon Arts Foundation is formed.
The Start of Our Seasons
1991-1998
The Foundation purchases The Sheldon Concert Hall and the adjoining Annex and begins presenting a curated season of jazz, folk and classical concerts. The first official season, in 1994, includes 15 concerts.
1998-2001
The Sheldon completes the renovation of the Annex and creates The Sheldon Art Galleries and sculpture garden. The 500-seat Louis Spiering Room (now named The Konneker Room) opens on the third floor of the Annex.
In 2001 new stained glass windows designed by Rodney Winfield were installed by Emil Frei & Sons in the Sheldon Concert Hall.
2019
Steward Family Plaza, encompassing a walkway and vertical garden on the west side of The Sheldon, opens. The Sheldon presents over 350 events each year in the concert hall, art galleries, Ballroom and Konneker Room.
2025
The Sheldon embarks on a transformational renovation in June, 2025. With a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 1, 2025, The Sheldon reopened doors with a new visitor experience.
