Nestled in the heart of St. Louis, the Field House Museum recently reopened its doors after an unexpected restoration from a dramatic pipe burst that turned the historic house into a water park. Stephanie Bliss, the museum's dynamic executive director, joins hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston to wade into the saga of recovery and renovation that the museum has undergone. The discussion kicks off with a vivid recounting of the unfortunate Christmas Eve incident when water cascaded down three floors of the historic site, leading to a restoration project that was both extensive and essential. Stephanie shares the behind-the-scenes efforts, including the artisans who meticulously restored the building's historical features, ensuring it remains a tribute to its past while embracing the future.

As the conversation flows, we learn about the rich history of the Field House, tied intricately to the life of Roswell Field (Dred and Harriet Scott's attorney) and his famous son, poet Eugene Field. Stephanie shares the fascinating backstory of the house, built in 1845, and how it became a significant landmark in St. Louis due to the family's contributions to history, especially in the context of the Dred Scott case. The dynamic between the hosts and the guest is playful and engaging, peppered with light-hearted banter that keeps the audience entertained while educating them about the importance of preserving local history.

Listeners will also get a glimpse into the museum's current exhibits, including a look at Eugene Field's life and works, as well as the intriguing toy collection honoring the poet's childhood passions. Stephanie's enthusiasm for the Field House Museum and its rich legacy is infectious, making this episode a delightful blend of humor, history, and a call to action for local heritage appreciation.

Join us for a journey through time and community spirit at the Field House Museum, where every corner tells a story, and every story deserves to be heard!

[00:00] Introduction to St. Louis Hidden Gem: Field House Museum

[00:36] Hosts' Coffee Chat and Sponsor Acknowledgment

[03:03] Community Announcements and Tornado Cleanup

[04:03] Field House Museum's Water Damage Incident

[07:18] Restoration Efforts and Historical Significance

[10:52] Roswell Field and the Dred Scott Case

[15:36] Eugene Field: The Poet and Prankster

[19:40] Current Exhibits at the Field House Museum

[27:05] The Evolution of Little People Toys

[27:32] Exploring the Music Exhibit

[28:39] Eugene Field's Legacy and the Museum's History

[31:51 The Field House Museum's Name Changes and Expansion

[34:58] Reciprocal Programs and Community Engagement

[38:28] Upcoming Events and Croquet Tournament

[46:12] Fun Facts and Closing Remarks

Takeaways:

• The Field House Museum is a hidden gem in St. Louis, and it just reopened after extensive renovations.
• Stephanie Bliss, the executive director, shared fascinating stories about the museum's history and its connection to Roswell and Eugene Field.
• The museum is not just about history; it hosts fun events like croquet tournaments and exhibits about toys and music.
• Eugene Field, born in the house, became renowned for his poetry, notably 'Wynken, Blynken, and Nod', which has inspired musicians and artists alike.
• The museum's toy collection honors Eugene's passion for toys, and currently features a Fisher Price exhibit that's a blast from the past.
• With its rich historical significance, the Field House Museum is a must-visit for anyone wanting to learn about St. Louis' cultural heritage.

• Field House Museum
• Croquet in the Lou | Field House Museum