Following Grant’s Footsteps

Samuel Clemens/Mark Twain, was born at this Florida, Mo., site in 1835 - 50 years later, he published Grant's Memoirs. Grant, at the time a colonel, made a one-night headquarters in Florida while searching for Missouri State Guard General Thomas Harris.

Learn more about Twain, who published Grant's Memoirs, with a self-guided tour of the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. The Boyhood Home is designated a National Historic Landmark.

This museum is housed in a mansion that hosted then Col. Ulysses S. Grant during the early days of the Civil War. Nine of its rooms house displays that permit visitors to experience the Victorian elegance of the past as well as the rich history of Audrain County. Admission is $5 for adults; $3 for children ages 12 and younger.

This 9.65-acre National Park Service site interprets the lives of Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia. Their house, White Haven, is a National Historic Landmark; it is one of several historic structures on the property. A visitor center, introductory film, museum, and interpretive tours are available daily.

Grant's Farm is the 281-acre ancestral home of the Busch family, located of the city of St. Louis. The Farm is home to more than 900 animals representing more than 100 species from six continents. The farm takes its name from our 18th president, Ulysses S. Grant. In the 1850s, Grant founded and farmed a portion of the 281 acres. Admission to Grant's Farm is free to all ages.

After spending a day learning about the past, unwind with all the comforts of today. This 108-room European-style boutique hotel blends stylish sophistication with modern luxury in every guestroom and suite.

Jefferson Barracks was established in 1826 as the country's first "Infantry School of Practice." It was named in honor of former President Thomas Jefferson. It served as a major United States military installation until 1946 and played an important role in the Unites States westward expansion.During its early years, Ulysses S. Grant, Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis, and William T. Sherman were but a few of the famous U.S. Army officers who served there.

Located at Historic Jefferson Barracks, this museum focuses on Missouri's unique Civil War history and famous figures, from Ulysses S. Grant to Jesse James.

After spending the morning in the St. Louis area, enjoy a drive to Southeast Missouri, an area rich in Civil War history. In Ironton, find the Ulysses S. Grant Monument, which commemorates Grant receiving his commission as a brigadier general. The monument is outside Ste. Marie Du Lac church.