Village History

The Village of Glen Carbon as we know it began as smaller pioneer communities. People had been living in the area for almost a century in what was known as the Goshen Settlement, though the Village was officially established in 1892. Workers from the Madison Coal Company and the St. Louis Press Brick Company wanted to create a company town that provided for its workers. Within a decade, Glen Carbon had annexed surrounding areas, like Peters Station in the west and the Mont Settlement in the east, growing with its population.

As a mining and railroading town, the Village was a center of travel for both goods and people. It was common for residents and visitors to board a train and travel to Saint Louis using one of the two local train depots. These railroads were essential to agricultural, brick, and mining operations, as it was the easiest and most efficient way to deliver goods from Glen Carbon’s flourishing industries.

Glen Carbon was home to the St. Louis Press Brick Company that supplied bricks to surrounding towns and the construction of the 1904 World's Fair buildings in Forest Park, a few of which still stand today.  

Main Street was a bustling mercantile center with various merchants, grocers, and saloons. In 1894, the Village passed an ordinance called “In Relation to Misdemeanors,” putting a law enforcement team directly in town rather than relying on the Township or County Constable. With 13 taverns and no churches in 1895, it is clear why the growing population would pass such an ordinance. The lively community then created its first volunteer fire department in 1898.

Because of the local brick and mining industry, Glen Carbon became a hub for immigrants, each gathering with others from similar areas and recreating familiar spaces. As a result, many neighborhood organizations sprang up, their mission to preserve their heritage, but with events open to all and offering a sense of community rivaled by none. The Village’s new residents watched out and cared for each other, something that continues today.