This property is absolutely cool. The renovations are amazing, and it was fun to think about what life might have been like for the original owners. Great restaurants are only a short drive away, and so are some good hiking spots. There is a place called Mary's Market right down the road where you can get groceries, and we recommend the Main & Mill Microbrewery in Festus for takeout. There is also a Starbucks in Festus if you just have to have it, but the house has a coffee pot along with tea and coffee, which was perfect for us. We loved the quiet setting and the views from the back deck. It was far enough removed to be nice and peaceful, yet close enough to town to not feel isolated. The house is furnished with antiques from the period, and it was like walking back in time. The kitchen has modern amenities but also antiques, such as lights that are wired with electricity to suit modern day living. The owners keep the place very clean and stocked with water, kitchen utensils, dishes, pots & pans, and cooking essentials. They even left wine and crackers for us, which was super thoughtful. The only thing we didn't like was that the neighbors didn't seem too friendly to outsiders. A lot of giant Trump flags, no trespassing signs, and suspicious looks. That's not under the owner's control, of course. And, well....if you like that kind of thing you'll feel right at home. My husband (White, cisgender male) went running a couple of times, and he felt uneasy as several men stepped out of their houses to look him over. Just something to be aware of. We mostly just enjoyed the house itself and a quiet weekend for our anniversary. The owners have really done a wonderful job!! :)
