ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - New management of one of the most popular family-fun facilities in the St. Louis region plans to make some changes, but also keep two very popular aspects of Grant's Farm exactly the same.
Former operator of multiple Sea World locations, Doug Stagner, was hired by the Busch family members who recently took ownership of the farm. His first official day is Nov. 1.
He says on that day, and beyond, patrons can still expect free admission and some complimentary Anheuser-Busch products, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Despite the farm reportedly losing an estimated $3.5 million-$4 million each year, Stagner says "the sky's the limit," for the 280-acre farm in south St. Louis County.
"I think it’s a sense of civic duty and pride," he told the Post-Dispatch of why Busch family is investing more into the farm. "They really want to ensure that this place is around for decades to come. It’s going to take a little time to get on our feet, but I’m confident that with the support of the family we’ll get there and then we can really start dreaming."
Some of Stagner's other ideas include more private tours of Deer Park, seasonal events, weekly concerts and expanding the food and beverages offered.
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Grant's Farm is home to more than 100 types of animals and a cabin built by former U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant.
The Busch family bought the property in 1903, and the site served as the country home of August Busch, Sr., who visited it on weekends when he could get away from his main residence at the Anheuser-Busch brewery in St. Louis. August Busch, Jr. (Gussie) opened the zoological park portion of Grant’s Farm to the public for free under a lease agreement with AnheuserBusch in 1954.
In 2017 Grant’s Farm was purchased by four of Gussie’s children, Andrew Busch, Peter Busch, Beatrice Busch von Gontard and Trudy Busch Valentine as well as grandson Robert Hermann, Jr.
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