Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion: A Glimpse into St. Louis' Past

Step back in time at the Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion, an architectural gem nestled in St. Louis' historic Benton Park. This meticulously restored house museum, dating back to 1848, offers a unique window into the lives of two families who shaped the city's cultural landscape. The mansion began as a modest, seven-room cottage built by Henri Chatillon, a fur trader and guide known for his travels on the Oregon Trail. In 1856, Dr. Nicolas DeMenil, a French physician, purchased the home and transformed it into the grand Greek Revival mansion you see today. The DeMenil family resided in the home until 1928. Inside, you'll discover a treasure trove of Victorian-era furnishings, family heirlooms, and artifacts, providing an immersive glimpse into 19th-century life. The mansion also houses a remarkable collection of memorabilia from the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. The Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion stands as a testament to St. Louis' rich French heritage and the enduring legacy of its early settlers. Saved from demolition in the 1960s, this landmark offers guided tours that bring its captivating history to life.