About Arcadia Valley Bungalows

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Arcadia Valley Bungalows are a wonder of a bygone era in American culture. Their story begins with the discovery and development of Bethesda Springs by one Mr. Louis Miller in 1888.

Mr. Miller was born in Missouri in 1853 and his family resettled in Arcadia, MO in 1860. A local prodigy, Mr. Miller was educated at the renowned Arcadia College and drew inspiration and purpose from his German Architect Grandfather. His love of Architecture led him to follow his passion and study under a well-known master Craftsman/builder. He eventually honed his architectural skills by working as a subcontractor to famous St. Louis architects William Eames, Thomas Young, and Theodore Link. He also published designs in the Journal of Carpentry and Building, Building Age, and the Craftsman.

Over his illustrious 50-year career, he designed and built buildings for many of the St. Louis upper class, as well as hotels, businesses, and Government buildings. He became a leader and influencer in the Craftsmen movement in American architecture and was an early adopter of conservation and sustainability. He was inspired by local materials and sustainably sourced local materials to give flair and texture to each new project. Mr. Miller’s love of Asian design led him to incorporate the Asian Roof lines into his home-grown American structures. He believed that amazing buildings should be aesthetically pleasing not just from the front, but from all sides they present. 

Louis Miller loved cobblestone and masonry of all kinds. The grounds of many of his projects would feature stones Urns, flowerpots, walls, and fountains. Louis Miller was a blessing to the Arcadia Community he loved and the greater Southeast Missouri region.

While his career spanned many years and hundreds of structures throughout Missouri, one place in particular remains a shining example of his prowess. That place is Arcadia Valley Bungalows, or, as he knew them, Bethesda Bungalows.

The culmination of his inspired Imagination, Mr. Miller designed and built 9 craftsman style bungalows in a small village arrangement adjoining his beloved Bethesda Springs. Nestled in the middle of the breathtakingly beautiful and historically rich Arcadia Valley, these amazing bungalows offer an intimate view into the mind of their creator. While the footprints are small, each bungalow offers a view of the design elements Mr. Miller cherished most. Aesthetically pleasing from any view, they have intricate cobblestone walls, expansive porches, elegant Asian turned-up roof lines, and efficient flowing interiors complete in every detail. Handsome fireplaces, rustic built-ins, and a sense of charm adorn every corner. It’s easy to see his fingerprints and his love for this particular project shine through in every detail.

The bungalows have also lasted the test of time.  Originally built in 1915 as a beautifully comfortable place to rest for weary travelers seeking refuge and peace of mind in the heart of the Ozark mountains, they have served many people and many different purposes over the past 110 years. They have housed temporary travelers as well as sheltered local families as permanent monthly rentals over the years. They have been the source of peace, tranquility, and fond memories for hundreds of people!

In 2016 the Bungalows began a new phase in their storied history. Bought by a local family with an eye for their historic value, the Bethesda Bungalows began a rejuvenation and revitalization. Worn from years of dedicated service, the distinct uniqueness of these Historic buildings began to be reclaimed by their new owners. Carefully incorporating modern upgrades into such important sentinels is a painstaking process, but with determination and an eye towards balancing historic features with modern conveniences, the restoration  became reality.

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Because of these ongoing restoration efforts, the Former Bethesda Bungalows will remain viable and relevant for generations to come. The Arcadia Valley Bungalows are available for all to come and experience the life and love of one man’s dream created over 110 years ago. They stand today to welcome all who are weary and in need of rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation!