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Graceland Museum

The Graceland Museum was built by John P. Clark, a native Virginian, as a reminder of the more genteel society he once knew “back home.”

In the midst of the Civil War, when the country was divided and the future of the Union hung in the balance, a significant yet often overlooked moment occurred in the small town of Mexico, Missouri. This moment was the visit of then-Colonel Ulysses S. Grant to Graceland Mansion, a stately home that would later become a cherished historical landmark. Grant’s visit to Graceland in the early 1860s is a fascinating chapter in the history of both the mansion and the nation, offering insight into the complexities of the war and the role Missouri played in the conflict.

Nine of its rooms contain displays that permit visitors to experience the Victorian elegance of the past as well as the rich history of Audrain County.

The Graceland Museum also houses the Cauthorn-Stribling Library, sponsored by Col. Charles R. Stribling III and his sister, Mrs. Robert J. Koster, as means to honor their ancestors: member of the Cauthorn and Stribling families. The room is furnished as a library of an 1870-1900 period home. It is considered to be a working library for research and learning.

Click here for a list of current library volumes and museum collections.

Graceland is a true gem of Audrain County, offering a fascinating journey through the history and culture of the region. With its stunning architecture, beautifully preserved interiors, and rich historical significance, the mansion stands as a testament to the elegance and grandeur of the Victorian era.

A visit to Graceland is not just a trip to the past; it’s an opportunity to connect with the stories and experiences of those who helped shape the history of Missouri.