Pic Today 5/5/11

MISSISSIPPI RIVER MANSION

This fabulous mansion overlooks

the mighty Mississippi River in St. Louis.

Built on bluffs, overlooking the river

in an historic part of the city,

there are still 19th-century "captain's mansions"

side-by-side with modern estates, like this one.

At a recent dinner reception and barbecue,

a wealthy gallery owner showed off his new home,

which included a spacious living room,

well equipped kitchen and bar,

modern art in every nook and cranny,

multi-level balcony and patio area

for riverside dining and a magnificent view.

With the Mississippi at "flood stage",

the river barges were a stone's throw from every vista.

Less than 100 years ago, mighty "paddle wheeler" steam boats

churned up and down this great river,

carrying freight, passengers and a gambler or two.

My favorite touch . . .

a 100-year old oak tree next to the dining porch.

What a house. What a river. What a view!