Lost to Time: The Crunden Martin MFG Buildings

On November 28th, 2025 the Crunden Martin MFG complex in the St Louis was lost to everyone that loved it. The 5 alarm fire took out the rest of the main structure, along with the other buildings part of the complex.

Built in the 19th century, the building is a storied part of the St Louis area history. Over the years, it had many roles it was home manufacturing, later it severed as a storage facility, and was a space for small businesses.

The manufacturing chapter of its history end in 1992 via a bankruptcy.  While in operation the company crafted a wide range of goods like woodenware, metal containers, and paper goods (notably kites and flyswatters).

In total the seven buildings made of the entire complex.  Sadly, I never saw any of it before the 2011 fire.  The version I ever knew of was the one altered the earlier fire.

By the time I discovered it, one could see that multiple sections were falling apart, yet somehow it stayed together.  Different sections each had their own look, this giving the whole a patchwork feel.  I lovingly referred to it as the “Frankenstein” building.

The building is probably one of my most photographed locations.  It was a great place to test out new camera capabilities.  Each side of the building had a something unique and there always seemed to be someone new to discover.

While part of it still remains, the magic that it once held was is pretty much gone.  Still though it offers a unique view of the area.  I still find myself drawn to what remains.

This area of the city is set to get redeveloped, so it was a matter of time before was lost to time.