Thomas Dunn Learning Center

The City of St. Louis, the Dutchtown neighborhood, and the Thomas Dunn Learning Center have all been enriched by the life and legacy of Bill Bowersox. Our award-winning facility was intentionally designed to reflect the wishes and vision of Thomas Dunn in his legacy, here on the southeast corner of Marquette Park.

I had the pleasure of walking through our purpose-built facility with Mr. Bowersox on multiple occasions as he described the many architectural details woven into the building. He explained why the north-facing glass wall never becomes too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter; why the classrooms have glass blocks on one side and clerestory windows positioned on the other; why one side of the facility features a hipped roof that dampens sound while the other side has a hipped roof that projects sound; why the backsplash in the kitchen is fuchsia pink; and even why the internet barely works in the library. Not only did Mr. Bowersox design classroom space Mr. Dunn wrote of in 1930, the English garden wall and arbor are also a nod to Thomas Dunn’s heritage. And I have not even mentioned the beacon, the visual landmark above the front door that has been illuminated by sunlight or subtle light 24 hours a day since 1991.

We will miss you, Mr. Bowersox. Thank you for the vision, craftsmanship, and care you left to the community: a place designed to educate, gather, inspire, and endure. - Paula

Obituary information for William A. "Bill" Bowersox View William A. "Bill" Bowersox's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.