Spanish explorers were the first Europeans to arrive in the O’Fallon area in 1541; however, except for a brief period of time, the territory remained under French control until acquired by the United States in 1803 as part of the Louisiana Purchase. Fort Zumwalt was constructed in 1812 and was the site of the first battle of the War of 1812 in Missouri. Arnold Krekel, one of many Germans to settle in O’Fallon, was instrumental in the development of the North Missouri Railroad in the area. The city’s namesake and founder, John O’Fallon, was president and director of the North Missouri Railroad, which became a major artery of trade and passenger service through O’Fallon. The city was incorporated in 1912, but didn’t experience substantial residential or commercial growth until the construction of I-70. Centrally located, O’Fallon enjoys close proximity to the metropolis of St. Louis and three regional airports, including Lambert International and the Spirit of St. Louis airports. More than 130 industries are located in and around O’Fallon including Nordyne Inc., MEMC Electronics, True Manufacturing, PPG Industries, Novus International Inc., Mastercard International, CitiMortgage and Wainwright Industries, Inc. O’Fallon residents also enjoy the numerous arts, cultural and entertainment venues St. Louis has to offer including the St. Louis Art Museum, Dance St. Louis, Opera Theatre of St. Louis and the St. Louis Zoo, Symphony Orchestra, Science Center and Art Museum. Outdoor recreation is served by two major public parks, which anchor the city of O’Fallon. O’Fallon Park consists of 125 acres and contains facilities for tennis, basketball, boating and picnicking. Fairground Park is the site of the area’s annual fair. The O’Fallon Community Athletic Club provides amateur athletic opportunities, while nearby St. Louis is the home of baseball’s Cardinals and other professional sports. The city of O’Fallon is primarily residential with residents who value the quiet quality of life to be found on tree-lined streets with brick and frame single-family homes. Lush green parks are nearby to unwind in after a working day in the city. Innovative and challenging educational opportunities are offered in local community and magnet schools. Time marches on in O’Fallon, but the city is sheltered by its rich historical past, its time honored values and its hope for the future.