Visit the Campbell House Museum to be transported into the sumptuous Victorian life of a renowned fur trader. The Campbell House Museum was the first house built in the upscale Lucas Place neighborhood of St. Louis. In 1854 the property became the family home of the revered frontiersman, fur trader and merchant Robert Campbell. For over eight decades the Campbells adorned the house with exquisite furniture, paintings and artworks.
Opened in 1943, the house museum later underwent a long-term renovation project that finished in 2005. The catalyst for the refurbishment was the discovery of a collection of 60 photographs taken about 1885. Rooms were renovated to reflect the appearance captured in the photos and provide an accurate representation of the house during the Victorian era. Browse an exhibit of the original photos to compare the similarities and see how the Lucas Place neighborhood once looked.
Luxurious decor is a common theme throughout the house. Details, from the carpets to the painted ceiling patterns and wallpaper, have been re-created to showcase the tastes of the former residents. Peruse grand furniture pieces, family portraits, fine drapery and elegant chinaware and silverware. See examples of letters written by family members.
Located in the house’s basement, the museum store has souvenirs related to the history of the Campbells and St. Louis. Find books about the life of Robert Campbell and his influence during the westward expansion years. Purchase handmade jewelry, greetings cards, lithophane night-lights or Victorian skyhook balancing toys.
The house stands in the Washington Avenue Historic District of downtown St. Louis. Walk here in 15 minutes from the Union Station or Civic Center light rail stations. Some free parking is available next to the museum. Parking is metered on the surrounding streets. While here, see other nearby city attractions such as Central Public Library of St. Louis and the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum.
Campbell House Museum is open daily and has an admission fee. An hour-long guided tour is included in the entrance fee. Tours on Monday and Tuesday are by prior appointment only. Find more information on the museum’s official website.
