Renovations to Wyeth Tootle Mansion progressing in lead up to America’s 250th anniversary

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- More than 145 years of history within the iconic Wyeth Tootle Mansion has be written, but the way the story unfolds now continues to evolve.

Located at the corner of 11th and Charles streets in Downtown St. Joseph, the Wyeth Tootle Mansion has stood the test of time since 1879 when it was built by William and Eliza Wyeth. The 43-room mansion has long been a key attraction for both locals and visitors, providing a window into both St. Joseph's history and it's ties to national political history.

Updates and renovations to the long-time building have come when needed. However, the current round of renovations will be geared toward highlighting Americas 250th anniversary this Fourth of July.

"A major part of the work with the new exhibits is highlighting lesser told stories. We've been digging into our archives and finding a lot of really cool stories from the Wyeth and Tootle families," St. Joseph Museums Curator Max Morgan said. "Both families and our mansion are kind of a microcosm of American History. We've been able to explore how their businesses shaped St. Joseph and their ties to national political figures like President Theodore Roosevelt and President (Rutherford B.) Hayes."

Beyond the exhibits being featured, the mansion's upstairs wedding suites are at the forefront of renovations. The brides and grooms exhibits will feature notable men and women who played significant roles in building aspects of St. Joseph such as brewing, railroads, banks, portrait paintings and jewelry.

QR code decals will also be placed around each exhibit to allow visitors to discover more information about items or artifacts peaking their interest.

In addition to new exhibits, the wedding suites will double as event space for weddings and social gatherings, including all-new amenities like a pool table, open bar and historical books.

"What I hope people take away from the whole project is just how deep and rich St. Joseph's history is. We're trying to broaden our horizons to different things about St. Joseph while also presenting it in a new way with the event wedding suites becoming an event space," Morgan said. "Their is something for everyone and catches their eye in these rooms."

The renovated exhibits are set to be completed by Saturday, July 4. For questions or more information about the museum visit https://www.stjosephmuseum.org/wyeth-tootle-mansion.