loved through generations

our story

grant's farm history

Grant’s Farm is a historic landmark in St. Louis with storied American roots. Originally home to decorated Civil War General and future American President, Ulysses S. Grant, the property would become home to the log cabin he built here in 1855. In 1903, the Busch family, founders of Anheuser-Busch, purchased the property, transforming it into a unique blend of wildlife preserve and family estate. Grant’s Farm was opened to the public in 1954 and has become a beloved family-friendly destination, known for its animals, history, and connection to two iconic American families.

our timeline

The History of Grant’s Farm

Grant’s Farm has been in the Busch family since 1903. There are many illustrious people and milestones that make up the property’s history. The roots of Grant’s Farm go deep, as does the love and care the Dent, Grant and Busch families have all shared for this special place.

st. louis’ first family for fun

Renowned worldwide for their legacy in American brewing, the Busch family are long-time owners of Grant’s Farm. As descendants of Adolphus Busch, founder of the Anheuser-Busch brewing empire, our family has owned and operated Grant’s Farm since 1903.

In 2021, five members of the Busch family cemented an ongoing commitment to conservation, history, and hospitality as the latest owners. Today, we’re proud to continue preserving the rich heritage of Grant’s Farm to create lasting memories with your family.

Andrew Busch

ANDREW BUSCH

Peter Busch

PETER BUSCH

beatrice

BEATRICE BUSCH
VON GONTARD

Robert hermann Jr

ROBERT
HERMANN JR.

Trudy Busch Valentine

TRUDY BUSCH
VALENTINE

a historic backdrop for adventure

Grant’s Farm is home to a collection of remarkable architectural landmarks reflecting its rich and storied history. At the heart of the estate stands “Hardscrabble,” the hand-built log cabin constructed by Ulysses S. Grant in the 1850s, one of the few remaining structures built by a U.S. president before taking office. Nearby, the Bauernhof, a traditional Bavarian-style carriage house and courtyard built by the Busch family in 1911, combines European elegance with Midwestern charm, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of craftsmanship and legacy. Visit today for an unforgettable look at one of St. Louis’ greatest treasures.

our team

Grant’s Farm is managed by our experienced, locally based leadership team.

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Steve Byrd

General Manager

Craig Thomas

Curator, Animal Care

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Patrick Cummings

Director, Culinary

Jeanna Kasten

Director, Finance

Nash Headshot 2025

Nash Miller

Manager, Guest Operations

James vavak

Busch Estate Manager

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Tara Sondag

Director of Marketing and Events

Danielle Wagner

HR Manager

Joe krebs

Director, Maintenance

partnerships

Andrew Busch

“I love watching the glee and utter amazement in the eyes of our guests, admiring the animals and natural beauty of Grant’s Farm.”

Peter Busch
Peter Busch

“I remember attending all the beautiful parties that my mother and father would host at the Bauernhof and the Big House.”

Beatrice Busch von Gontard
Beatrice Busch Von Gontard

“We used to ride our horses through herds of bison, elk, deer, and exotic cattle in Deer Park.”

Robert hermann Jr
Robert Hermann Jr.

“Grant’s Farm is filled with years of happy memories…family gatherings filled with laughter, amazing people sharing stories around the dinner table, and sneaking in card games in the kitchen!”

Trudy Busch Valentine
Trudy Busch Valentine

“I love that my dad taught me how to drive a coach with four horses. He was a perfectionist and pushed me hard to do it right. Dad had a very big and loving heart.”

Andrew Busch
Andrew Busch

“I love watching the glee and utter amazement in the eyes of our guests, admiring the animals and natural beauty of Grant’s Farm.”