2016 St Louis Convention

Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is the oldest botanical garden in continuous operation in the United States. It is a National Historical Landmark and a center for science, conservation, education, and horticultural display. Covering 79 acres, visitors are treated to various themed gardens, including Chinese, English Woodland, Victorian, Japanese, Ottoman, Perennial, and Vegetable. The Climatron® is a geodesic dome that covers almost one-half acre and houses an indoor tropical rain forest.

Visitors can also tour Tower Grove, the estate home of Henry Shaw, the Missouri Botanical Garden’s founder. Built in 1849, this Italianate mansion has been fully restored to its original splendor. Artifacts and furniture which belonged to the Shaw family, including Flow Blue china, are on display. While visiting the Garden, enjoy lunch on the terrace and take home a special gift from the Garden Gate Shop or the Little Shop Around the Corner.

A short distance from the Missouri Botanical Garden is the Thomas Sappington House. Also a National Historic Landmark, this home and surrounding 2.5 acre park appear as they did nearly 200 years ago. The house is thought to be the oldest brick home in St. Louis County and a rarely-found example of Federal architecture in Missouri. Take a stroll by the pond, relax under the old shade trees, and enjoy homemade desserts, tea, and coffee at the quaint and cozy Barn Restaurant and Gift Shop located on the grounds.

St. Louis hosted the 1904 World’s Fair, as told in the 1944 musical Meet Me in St. Louis starring Judy Garland, Margaret O’Brien, and Tom Drake. At the time of this highly-acclaimed cultural event which celebrated the purchase of the Louisiana Territory, Flow Blue and Mulberry were fashionable and in high demand by American consumers. With a turn-of-the-century theme reminiscent of yesteryear, the 2016 FBICC Convention will provide opportunities to meet new friends, visit with long-time acquaintances, and learn more about Flow Blue and Mulberry through educational seminars. Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase Flow Blue and Mulberry items at the ‘Bluetique’ market, auction, and dealer table sales.