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Samuel Cupples House: A Gilded Age Mansion

Explore Gilded Age opulence at the historic Samuel Cupples House, a Romanesque Revival masterpiece on the Saint Louis University campus.

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The Samuel Cupples House, a Romanesque Revival mansion on the Saint Louis University campus, showcases late 19th-century opulence and serves as a museum and art gallery. Built by wealthy entrepreneur Samuel Cupples, it features intricate woodwork, stained glass, and a collection of fine and decorative arts.

A brief summary to Samuel Cupples House

Local tips

  • Admission is free, allowing you to explore the mansion's art and architecture without any cost.
  • Visit between Tuesday and Saturday, 11 AM to 4 PM, to ensure the house is open for tours.
  • Take a self-guided tour to explore the house at your own pace, using the informative guidebooks available.
  • Check the SLU website or call ahead to confirm hours, especially during holiday breaks.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Samuel Cupples House via public transport, take the MetroLink to the Grand Boulevard Station. From there, walk four blocks north and turn left at the campus entrance nearest DuBourg Hall. The Cupples House will be ahead on the right. A one-ride fare on MetroBus or MetroLink is $1.

  • Walking

    If you're already on the Saint Louis University campus or in Midtown, walking to the Samuel Cupples House is straightforward. Head west on West Pine Boulevard until you reach 3673 West Pine Blvd. The house is located on the right side of the street.

  • Driving

    When driving to the Samuel Cupples House, be aware that there is no dedicated parking lot. Limited metered parking is available on Lindell Boulevard. Additional parking is available in Saint Louis University's campus parking garages. The Laclede Garage is the closest, costing $2 per hour or $6 per day. Street parking is typically $1.50 per hour, with a two hour limit.

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Discover more about Samuel Cupples House

Step back in time at the Samuel Cupples House, a stunning example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture located on the campus of Saint Louis University. Built between 1888 and 1890 for Samuel Cupples, a prominent St. Louis businessman, this 42-room mansion reflects the grandeur of the Gilded Age. Designed by architect Thomas B. Annan, the house boasts a unique blend of Anglo-Irish influences and intricate detailing. The exterior features purple sandstone from Colorado and pink granite from southern Missouri, while the interior showcases rich woodwork, leaded glass windows, and 22 fireplaces. Gargoyles and other mythical figures adorn the exterior, adding to its castle-like appearance. Originally a private residence, the house was acquired by Saint Louis University in 1946. It served as a student center for many years, even housing a bowling alley and bar in the basement. In 1973, a restoration project led by Maurice McNamee, S.J., returned the house to its original splendor. Today, the Samuel Cupples House operates as a museum and art gallery, displaying a collection of fine and decorative art from before 1919. Highlights include the Eleanor Turshin Glass Collection and exhibitions by SLU students and faculty in the McNamee Gallery. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored rooms and admire the period-appropriate furniture and decorations.

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