04/13/2020
August Busch Sr. (Son of Adolphus Busch) purchased farmland in 1911 in St. Charles Missouri. He named the farm Belleau (French beau, bel “lovely”+eau “water”). He lived there in a railroad cart where he loved to hunt ducks & snipe. His wife Alice Busch purchased thousands of acres of land in Defiance Missouri which was donated to the Missouri department of conservation. Alice had the land named The August A Busch Wildlife Area.
August A Busch Jr. Otherwise known as Gussie, was the third ceo of Anheuser Busch. He was extremely passionate about animals and conservation. Gussie founded the Clydesdale eight horse hitch, started Busch Gardens, and opened his home at Grants Farm to the public which he converted into an exotic animal attraction, breeding ground, and sanctuary. Gussie was also the founder of the Bridlespur hunt club in the 1920’s located next to The August A Busch Wildlife Area in Defiance Missouri. Gussie managed Belleau Farms which was passed down by his father August Sr.