The History of the House
Construction of the magnificent Greek Revival home known as Mudd’s Grove got underway in 1859 and was completed in 1860 for John Hoffman, a local builder and real estate developer.
Using the soft salmon brick, common to the area, the house is built with masonry walls. In order to protect the brick’s fragile character, the exterior is painted. The first and second floors of the three-story dwelling were identical, having two rooms on the east and two on the west, separated by a central stair hall.
Each room has a nearly identical manteled fireplace leading to one of the distinctive twin chimneys in the gable parapets. The room arrangement, method of construction, fireplaces for heat and high ceilings for ventilation make this house a functional and practical design for the St. Louis climate.
Mudd’s Grove has been recognized as historically significant by the National Register of Historic Places. It was purchased by the Kirkwood Historical Society in 1992. Members of the Society have been lauded by the City of Kirkwood for their personal involvement in restoring the house to its original elegance. The Society operates it as a museum and resource center.
Rent Mudd’s Grove
Mudd’s Grove is a beautiful venue to host your next party, reception, lecture or wedding. Contact us at kirkwoodhistory1853@gmail.com to learn more about pricing, group sizes and guidelines.