first missouri state capitol state historic site

My husband and I recently visited St Charles and had a simply marvelous time at the First Missouri State Capitol. It’s a Missouri state historic site, and administered by park rangers. We paid $4.50 each for admission for a REALLY good tour; our guide was Dominic, and he was very knowledgeable about local history as well as relative world events (e.g., the Napoleonic Wars and westward expansion of the US). Since we were the only two people on the tour, he customized our visit; we spent a great deal of time in the various rooms, took a stroll through the grounds, and had some lovely talks about historic preservation and urban archaeology. It was so interesting to see the original buildings which had been so lovingly restored; even if the furnishings weren't the original items, they were certainly authentic to the period. It was fascinating to stand in the legislative chamber, look through the wavy glass panes of the second-story windows, and see the cobblestone streets and storefronts as they must have looked a century and a half ago. Dominic was able to bring the past alive through story and demonstration; it was delightful!The standard tour lasts an hour, but can be customized as ours was if the group needs more (or less) time. It was the perfect way to start our day in the St Charles historic district and really set the tone for our visit. I highly recommend it for any new visitors to the area.

Wonderful History! The historians dress in period wear and know are very friendly. Enjoyed learning about Missouri history.

The whole town is decked out for the holidays in its period 1700's finest. You can see old world Santa's, Fife and Drum corps, and even Sugar Plum Fariey.

This is the original Missouri State Capitol set up like it was about 170-190 years ago before it was moved to Jefferson City. Inside and outside are pretty much the same except for electricity and AC in some spots.

You are guided through a row of several buildings. They give you the history, show you examples, and you learn a lot.

We went to the Visitor's Center and borrowed a pre-loaded iPod that guided us and informed us about the various historic buildings (this was free). This is a very charming area.

If you are there, you should visit! The area is a treat to wander and experience - the historical landmarks are interesting to note.

This place seemed to get crowded at various times over the weekend we visited. However, there is alot of history and interesting information to be found here. Definitely worth checking out while in St. Charles.

Many things to see here, the staff was helpful event though there were a log of people going thru, truly a must see if you are in the old part of St Charles, a lot of history documented here

The kids and I were just walking down Main Street one day and I said, "Let's stop in here." Little did I know they were celebrating Missouri's birthday and we were directed out back to enjoy some activities. One was to show how to start fire with a flint rock, which my daughter loved. Another was to explore the old store, capital rooms and see how they made things back then. It was so wonderful! I love St. Charles and I LOVE the people who participate in activities like this.This is a wonderful place to visit!

While the Capitol was being built in Jefferson City ,Mo-St. Charles was the capitol for about five years. Basically because the state was given free rent.The building has been restored to it original look. The visitors bureau offer guided tours. The main street of St. Charles is filled with restaurants and shops.You can also take a buggy ride for $12.00 for adults for 20 minutes.Main street has its share of Ghosts and Ghost tours are available!.

worth the time and short walk from the Arch. self directed tour but there is a park ranger available to answer questions. City Garden is within walking distance.

When Missouri achieved statehood in 1821, its constitution stipulated that the capital be located within 40 miles of the mouth of the Osage River. That site turned out to be Jefferson City, but in 1821 there was nothing there, so the new government needed a place to meet. The residents of the small French fur-trapping village of St. Charles offered a free meeting place and the state government moved here from St. Louis. The building they used for the legislative meeting space and governor's office was saved from demolition by the state in 1961 and restored to how it may have appeared in 1821. The lower level was a dry-goods store and a residence for its owners. The tour shows you the space used by the government as well as the residence and store. The spaces are furnished with period furniture and the store features items typical of a store of that type and period. Together, they give the visitor a glimpse at life in the 1820s. The tour includes an explanation of Missouri's route to statehood, slavery's role in the debate, and how it was another step in the nation's march toward civil war.

This is the site of the first MO state capital. The tour guide was very informative and toured us through all of the buildings on the site grounds. It was very authentic and took you back in the times of when it was a working capital. Learned lots of historical trivia

Walking up and down Main Street along with a nice riverfront park offers something for everyone. Main Street has many restaurants and other drinking establishments. Main Street also offers a different variety of shops and offices. On many of the buildings is a plaque offering a pIcture of what each building looked lIke at one time along with a short story of what each building was used for. As mentioned, located behind Main Street is a tree lined park to walk through or sit in. Many festivals are held throughout the year on Main Street itself and/or in the park. A suggestion is to arrive early for any of the festivals as parking can become a real challenge.