Originally, Washington University was located in downtown St. Louis.  Robert S. Brookings, Washington University board president, found a hilly site for the new campus while riding on horseback west of the city, near the “Wilderness” end of Forest Park. The University purchased the land in 1893.  The new site was used by the Louisiana Purchase Exposition for the 1904 World’s Fair.

In January 1905, Washington University students began their first classes at the new campus, which was known simply as “west of Forest Park.” By the 1920s, the campus was described as “at Skinker Road and Lindell Boulevard.” Generally known as “main campus,” in the 1950s Washington University publications began to refer to the “Hilltop Campus” with a nod to Robert S. Brookings’ initial description of the land’s “hilly” nature.

In February 2006, Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton announced that the Hilltop Campus would be renamed the Danforth Campus on September 17, 2006, in recognition of the role that William H. “Bill” Danforth, chancellor emeritus and life trustee; the Danforth family; and the Danforth Foundation have played in the evolution of the University.  The Danforth Campus name took effect on September 17, 2006, marked by an official dedication ceremony.