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

The Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion, located in the historic Benton Park neighborhood, stands as a testament to St. Louis's rich French heritage and 19th-century life. Originally a modest seven-room cottage built in 1848 by fur trader Henri Chatillon, the home was transformed into a grand Greek Revival mansion by Dr. Nicholas DeMenil, who purchased it in 1856. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored rooms, filled with original furnishings and period décor, which tell the stories of the Chatillon and DeMenil families. These families, including members of the founding families of St. Louis and Carondelet, a nationally known Western trailblazer, the family of an Oglala leader, and a literary scholar who was a director of the 1904 World's Fair, significantly contributed to the city's cultural fabric. The mansion also houses the largest permanent collection of 1904 World's Fair memorabilia, with over 1,200 pieces. The mansion's history is intertwined with the development of St. Louis. Situated on a hill overlooking the Mississippi River, it served as a landmark for steamboat pilots. In 1961, the house faced demolition due to the I-55 highway project but was saved by local preservationists and a donation from Union Electric. Today, the Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion stands as a reminder of the city's past, offering guided tours and special events throughout the year.