Cupples House built in 1890 with historic architectural design

Samuel Cupples House

Samuel Cupples House: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in St. Louis

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Samuel Cupples House, located on the Saint Louis University campus, is a stunning example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture and a celebrated symbol of St. Louis’s Gilded Age heritage. Built between 1888 and 1890 for entrepreneur Samuel Cupples, this mansion stands today as both a museum and gallery, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its architectural grandeur, fine and decorative arts collections, and vibrant community programming (Saint Louis University; National Register of Historic Places).

This guide covers everything you need to know for a memorable visit: historical background, architectural highlights, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, special events, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or first-time visitor to St. Louis, the Samuel Cupples House promises a rich and immersive experience at one of the city’s premier historical sites.

Cupples House historic building on Saint Louis University campus viewed from the west

Historical Background and Preservation
Architectural Significance
Restoration and Preservation
Visiting: Hours, Tickets, and Admission
Travel Tips and Accessibility
Special Events, Guided Tours, and Photography
Museum Collections and Exhibitions
Visitor Experience and Tours
Nearby Attractions
Cultural Impact and Community Engagement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

Historical Background and Preservation

Commissioned by Samuel Cupples, a leading St. Louis businessman in the woodenware and railroad supply industries, the mansion was constructed at a cost of approximately $500,000 (over $15 million today). Its creation coincided with St. Louis’s rise as a national industrial and cultural center. The home’s location on West Pine Boulevard marked it as a prestigious city address and showcased Cupples’s commitment to quality and innovation (Saint Louis University).

In 1976, the house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing both its architectural and historical value. The mansion’s survival and restoration—spearheaded by Father Maurice McNamee and community advocates in the 1970s—have made it a touchstone for preservation efforts throughout St. Louis (National Register of Historic Places; About St. Louis).

Architectural Significance

Exterior Craftsmanship

Samuel Cupples House exemplifies Richardsonian Romanesque style, rarely chosen for private homes in the Midwest. Its asymmetrical façade features locally sourced Missouri red granite and gray limestone, turrets, gables, and massive chimneys, giving it an imposing yet artful presence (SLU Architecture and Design). Decorative elements include hand-carved vines, whimsical gargoyles, and a copper-clad roofline, all reflecting the era’s fascination with medieval revivalism and the English Arts and Crafts movement (About St. Louis; Esotouric).

Interior Mastery

The mansion boasts 42 rooms and 22 unique fireplaces. Interiors are adorned with hand-carved oak, mahogany, and walnut, Tiffany-style stained glass windows, and period furnishings. The floors, made from English quartersawn oak, and elaborately carved mantels and staircases, highlight the craftsmanship of Victorian artisans. Each fireplace and stained glass window is distinct, further illustrating the house’s attention to detail and artistic ambition (SLU Architecture and Design; About St. Louis).

The Architect: Thomas B. Annan

Local architect Thomas B. Annan designed the house, synthesizing influences from the English Arts and Crafts movement and medieval revivalism. After training under notable St. Louis architects and traveling to England for inspiration, Annan’s design for the Cupples House became his most celebrated work and a key contribution to St. Louis architecture (SLU Architecture and Design).

Restoration and Preservation

By the mid-20th century, the mansion had suffered significant wear, including a stint as a student center. Restoration efforts in the 1970s, led by Father McNamee and university supporters, returned the home to its original splendor. Today, the Samuel Cupples House stands as a model of historic preservation and adaptive reuse, housing museum galleries and serving as a landmark for community engagement (Castlesy; Esotouric).

Visiting: Hours, Tickets, and Admission

Visiting Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays. Hours may vary during special events—check the official website for updates.
Admission: Free for all visitors; donations are appreciated to support ongoing preservation and programming.
Guided Tours: Free guided tours are available by advance reservation and typically last 45–60 minutes. Self-guided tours are available during regular hours without reservation (SLU Cupples House Visits).

Travel Tips and Accessibility

Location: 3673 West Pine Mall, Saint Louis University campus, Midtown St. Louis.
Parking: Metered street parking and university lots are available nearby. Early arrival is recommended during busy periods.
Public Transit: Accessible via MetroBus routes that serve the university area.
Accessibility: Main exhibition spaces are generally wheelchair accessible, though some historic areas are limited. Visitors with specific needs should contact the museum in advance.
Amenities: Restrooms and a small gift shop are available onsite. No on-site dining, but nearby campus cafes and restaurants are accessible (Explore St. Louis).

Special Events, Guided Tours, and Photography

Special Events: The house hosts lectures, seasonal celebrations, and art openings, often aligned with campus and citywide cultural events (All Events in St. Louis).
Educational Programs: School groups, university classes, and the public can participate in tours, workshops, and lectures on art, architecture, and history.
Photography: Non-flash photography for personal use is allowed; flash and tripods may be restricted to protect historic interiors.

Museum Collections and Exhibitions

Fine and Decorative Arts

The house displays an extensive collection of fine and decorative arts, with a focus on works from before 1919. Period furnishings, paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects provide insight into Gilded Age tastes and lifestyles (SLU Cupples House; WhichMuseum).

Eleanor Turshin Glass Collection

A highlight of the museum is the Eleanor Turshin Glass Collection, featuring Art Nouveau and Art Deco glassware, including vases and stained glass panels that complement the mansion’s historic interiors.

McNamee Gallery

Located in the basement, the McNamee Gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art from university students, faculty, and visiting artists, bridging the mansion’s historic past with ongoing creative expression.

Visitor Experience and Tours

Self-Guided Tours: Visitors may explore at their own pace with interpretive signage and downloadable guides (SLU Cupples House Visits).
Group Tours: Available for groups of 20 or more at $5 per person; school groups receive free docent-led tours by reservation.
Duration: Plan for 45–90 minutes to fully appreciate the house and exhibitions. Combine your visit with other campus or Midtown attractions for a full day out.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring nearby sites:

Saint Louis University Museum of Art
Forest Park (St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, Science Center)
Central West End (shopping, dining, historic architecture)
City Museum

Cultural Impact and Community Engagement

Preservation Leadership

Saved from demolition in the 1970s, the Samuel Cupples House’s restoration became a model for historic preservation in St. Louis, earning regional and national recognition (SLU Cupples House).

Education and Community

As both a museum and educational center, the house connects the community with St. Louis’s Gilded Age legacy. The McNamee Gallery’s contemporary exhibitions and year-round cultural programming make the house a dynamic space where past and present meet.

Urban Evolution and Identity

The mansion’s journey—from private residence to student center to museum—reflects the adaptive spirit of St. Louis. Its prominent place on the university campus strengthens local identity and cultural tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Q: How much does it cost to visit?
A: Admission is free; donations are appreciated.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, free guided tours are offered by reservation; self-guided tours are available during regular hours.

Q: Is the house wheelchair accessible?
A: Most main spaces are accessible, but some historic areas are limited. Contact staff for specific accommodations.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, non-flash photography for personal use is allowed.

Q: Where should I park?
A: Metered street parking and university lots are nearby; check the university website for current policies.

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

For the latest updates, tour bookings, and special events, visit the official Samuel Cupples House website. Download the Audiala app for interactive audio guides and curated tours. Follow the house on social media to stay informed about upcoming exhibitions and programs.

Embark on a journey through St. Louis history and craftsmanship—discover the Samuel Cupples House, where the past comes vividly to life.