Foundation

Our mission is to preserve the house of the Chatillon and DeMenil families and to serve as a resource for historic preservation in St. Louis.

The Chatillon DeMenil House is a magnificent example of the late Greek Revival style in St. Louis, but its significance is more than architectural. The house embodies the stories of the families who lived here, including members of the founding families of St. Louis and Carondelet, a nationally known Western trailblazer, the family of an Oglala leader, the first chain drugstore operator in St. Louis, and a literary scholar who was a director of the 1904 World’s Fair. We also tell the story of the caves underneath the property, the highway system that almost destroyed the house, and the preservation efforts that saved it. We are open for tours four days a week, and lunch and private parties are available at the Cafe DeMenil.

The Chatillon-DeMenil House Foundation is the 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation entrusted with the conservation and interpretation of the Mansion. The Foundation is supported by individual gifts and memberships, foundation grants, income from the Café DeMenil restaurant and special events, tour revenues, and a gift shop. Fundraising and planning are overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors.

Donations of time, materials, and money are always welcome and appreciated. The Foundation’s “wish list” includes items both large and small.

There are many opportunities to participate in the work of the Foundation. Whether member, donor, volunteer, or simply as someone who spreads the word, thousands of individuals all over the region are involved in making the vision of the Foundation a reality. Please consider getting involved with the Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion – we hope to see you soon!