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Martin-Boismenue House State Historic Site

Discover French Creole heritage at one of Illinois' oldest homes, showcasing 18th-century life along the Mississippi River.

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The Martin-Boismenue House State Historic Site in East Carondelet, Illinois, offers a glimpse into French Creole architecture and life in the late 18th century. Built around 1790 by Pierre Martin, it stands as one of the oldest surviving residences in Illinois, showcasing the poteaux-sur-sol technique.

A brief summary to Martin-Boismenue House State Historic Site

  • 2110 1st St, East Carondelet, East Carondelet, Illinois, 62240, US

Local tips

  • Call ahead to schedule a tour, as the house is not always open for walk-in visits.
  • Explore the grounds and gardens surrounding the house for a more immersive experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby historic sites in Cahokia for a fuller understanding of the region's history.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cahokia, Illinois, head south on Illinois Route 3. Turn right onto First Street in East Carondelet. The Martin-Boismenue House will be on your left. Parking is available on-site. There are no tolls on this route.

  • Public Transport

    From St. Louis, utilize the MetroLink to the Cahokia Heights station, then transfer to the 19 Cahokia Heights bus. From the bus stop, it is approximately 1 mile walk to the Martin-Boismenue House. A single ride on the MetroLink and bus is $3.

  • Ride Share

    From downtown St. Louis, a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to the Martin-Boismenue House will cost approximately $25-35, depending on traffic and demand.

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Discover more about Martin-Boismenue House State Historic Site

Step back in time at the Martin-Boismenue House State Historic Site, a French Creole residence constructed circa 1790 by Pierre Martin. Located in East Carondelet, Illinois, this historic site provides a window into the lives of early settlers in the Mississippi River valley. The house exemplifies the poteaux-sur-sol (post-on-sill) construction technique, featuring squared-log outer walls resting on a log sill mounted on a stone foundation. Broad porches, known as galeries, adorn the north and south sides, offering additional living space and protection from the elements. The interior consists of two rooms on the first floor, each with a fireplace, and a half-basement with a cooking fireplace. Today, the Martin-Boismenue House has been refurbished and furnished with period pieces, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Tours are available by request and emphasize the history of the building, preservation efforts, and the lives of the Martin family. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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