Eugene Field House Visiting Hours, Tickets, and St. Louis Historical Sites Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction: History and Cultural Significance
Nestled in the heart of downtown St. Louis, Missouri, the Eugene Field House stands as a celebrated testament to American literary and legal history. Built in 1845, this landmark is the boyhood home of Eugene Field, affectionately known as the “Children’s Poet” for works such as “Wynken, Blynken, and Nod.” The house also honors his father, Roswell Martin Field, the attorney who played a pivotal role in the Dred Scott Supreme Court case, a landmark moment in the history of civil rights in the United States.
Today, the Eugene Field House & St. Louis Toy Museum offers a unique immersion into 19th-century urban life, blending preserved Victorian architecture, rare manuscripts, and family memorabilia with interactive, educational programs. The museum is fully accessible, offers guided tours, and is located near major St. Louis attractions like the Gateway Arch and Old Courthouse. Whether you’re interested in literature, legal history, or simply wish to experience a well-preserved piece of the city’s heritage, the Eugene Field House Museum makes for an enriching destination for all ages (Eugene Field House Museum in St. Louis; Field House Museum Eventbrite; Eugene Field House official site).
Table of Contents
- Eugene Field House Overview
- Visiting Hours and Admission
- Accessibility and Amenities
- Directions and Parking
- Nearby Attractions and Itinerary Suggestions
- Historical Background
- Architectural and Cultural Significance
- Restoration and Landmark Status
- Educational and Community Engagement
- Exhibits and Interactive Resources
- Guided Tours and Visitor Experience
- Practical Information (Hours, Tickets, Location)
- Tips for an Enriching Visit
- FAQs
- Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
- Conclusion and Call to Action
Eugene Field House Museum: Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide
Visiting Hours and Admission
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; closed Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays.
- Admission: $5 for adults; free for children under 12 and St. Louis Public School students.
- Note: Hours and ticket prices may vary during special events or renovations; always check the official website or Eventbrite page for current information.
Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
- Wheelchair accessible entrances and restrooms.
- Guided tours available by appointment, with accommodations for visitors with special needs.
- On-site parking is limited; public garages and street parking are nearby.
Getting There
- Location: 634 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102.
- Public Transit: Accessible via MetroBus routes 10 and 70; nearest MetroLink station is 8th & Pine (10-minute walk).
- Driving: Easy access from Interstates 64/40 and 44; paid parking available on S. Broadway and surrounding streets.
Nearby Attractions and Itinerary Tips
- Gateway Arch National Park: 1 mile away.
- Old Courthouse Museum: 0.8 miles away.
- Missouri History Museum: 2.5 miles away.
- Dining & Culture: Explore the Soulard neighborhood, Mississippi riverfront, and other downtown amenities.
Historical Background
Early Origins and Construction
The Eugene Field House, originally part of “Walsh’s Row,” was built in 1845 and stands as a rare example of mid-19th-century Victorian row house architecture. The land’s lease funded public schools, reflecting early civic priorities (Field House Museum History).
The Field Family Legacy
Roswell Martin Field and his wife moved into the house in 1850, where Eugene Field was born. Roswell’s most notable contribution was advancing the Dred Scott case, a pivotal legal battle for civil rights (Saving Places: Field House Museum).
Literary and Legal Impact
Eugene Field is remembered for his charming children’s poetry and for pioneering the modern newspaper column. The museum preserves manuscripts, first editions, and personal memorabilia, offering insight into both his creative genius and his family’s historical impact (PL Firm: Field House Museum).
Preservation Efforts
In 1934, local advocacy, including a fundraising campaign by schoolchildren, saved the house from demolition. The museum opened in 1936 as St. Louis’s first historic house museum (Field House Museum History).
Architecture, Exhibits, and Visitor Experience
Architectural and Cultural Significance
The museum is the last surviving example of its kind in St. Louis, featuring restored Victorian rooms with period furnishings, rare books, and vintage toys. The house’s Greek Revival brick façade and original details provide a window into pre-Civil War urban life (PL Firm: Field House Museum).
Restoration and National Recognition
Renovations since 1999 have preserved the structure’s historical character, and the site was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2007 (Field House Museum History).
Educational Programs and Community Engagement
The Eugene Field House Foundation offers guided tours, school partnerships, and public programs, continuing a tradition of community involvement and educational outreach (PL Firm: Field House Museum).
Guided Tours and Interpretation
Docent-led tours (45–60 minutes) offer an immersive look at the Field family and their times. Tours explore restored rooms, family artifacts, and the broader historical context. Advance booking is recommended, especially for groups (Field House Museum Eventbrite).
Rotating Exhibits and Expansion
A modern expansion houses rotating exhibits on topics such as 19th-century literature and civil rights history. The Eugene Field Library provides rare books and resources for scholars, available by appointment.
Interactive and Family-Friendly Activities
The museum features scavenger hunts, poetry readings, creative workshops, and seasonal events like Victorian Christmas. National Poetry Month brings special activities led by local poets.
Practical Information
- Location: 634 S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (check Eventbrite and official website for updates)
- Tickets: $5 adults; free for children under 12 and St. Louis Public School students; group rates available (Field House Museum Eventbrite)
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrances and amenities; contact the museum for specific needs.
- Parking: Paid street parking and public garages nearby.
Tips for an Enriching Visit
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
- Book tickets and tours in advance, especially during special programs.
- Non-flash photography is generally allowed; confirm with staff.
- Allocate 1–2 hours to enjoy exhibits and the gift shop.
- Check the museum’s website for current health protocols and event schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Eugene Field House visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. Check online for special event hours.
Q: How much is admission?
A: $5 adults; free for children under 12 and St. Louis Public School students.
Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes; some historic rooms may have limited access.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment; included with admission.
Q: Can I visit virtually?
A: Yes, virtual tours and digital resources are available on the museum’s website.
Q: Where can I park?
A: Paid street parking and public garages are nearby.
Enhance Your Experience
- Enjoy high-quality images and virtual tours on the official museum website.
- The museum gift shop offers unique items related to Eugene Field and St. Louis history.
- Support the museum through membership for free admission and exclusive events (support page).
Summary and Call to Action
The Eugene Field House is a cornerstone of St. Louis’s historical and cultural landscape. Through its authentic architecture, literary heritage, and educational programs, it offers a compelling window into the past for visitors of all ages. Located near major attractions, the museum provides a rich cultural itinerary for history lovers and families alike.
For the latest hours, ticketing, and event details, visit the official website or Eventbrite page. Enhance your visit with the Audiala app for guided audio tours and exclusive content, and follow the museum on social media for real-time updates.
Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the stories that shaped St. Louis and American history.
References
- Eugene Field House Museum in St. Louis: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights, 2025, (Eugene Field House Museum History)
- Field House Museum Visiting Hours, Tickets & Guide to St. Louis Historical Sites, 2025, (Eventbrite)
- Eugene Field House Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to St. Louis Historical Sites, 2025, (Official Eugene Field House site)
- PL Firm: Field House Museum
- Saving Places: Field House Museum
