Missouri’s Oldest Town – A Living Museum of French Colonial America
Historic Sites in Ste. Genevieve
Ste. Genevieve is one of the most significant historic destinations in the United States. Founded around 1735–1750, it is the first permanent European settlement west of the Mississippi River. The town preserves one of the finest collections of French Colonial architecture in North America and tells the story of early French, Spanish, and American frontier life.
experience everything this special town has to offer
Discover the Best of Historic Ste. Genevieve
Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park
The Heart of French Colonial History
Established in 2020, this National Park Service site preserves and interprets the story of early colonial life along the Mississippi River. Highlights include the Beauvais-Amoureux House, Green Tree Tavern, and Jean Baptiste Vallé House. The park offers ranger programs, walking tours, and a visitor center with exhibits and a short film.
Beauvais-Amoureux House
The Bauvais-Amoureux House features a Significant "Post-in-Ground" Style of Architecture
The Bauvais-Amoureux House demonstrates a unique form of construction, poteaux-en-terre (post-in-ground), which means the vertical logs that make up the home are foundational. Today, only three poteaux-en-terre houses remain in Ste. Genevieve with five total known to remain in the United States.
Bolduc & LeMeilleur Houses (Maison Bolduc)
Outstanding Example of French Colonial Architecture
A National Historic Landmark and one of the finest surviving French Colonial houses in the United States. Built in the 1790s with characteristic poteaux-en-terre (post-in-ground) construction and a detached kitchen. Operated by the Foundation for Restoration of Ste. Genevieve. Learn how French Creole culture evolved during the pivotal Mississippi Valley transitioning years.
Guibourd-Vallé House
1806 Creole-Style Home with Norman Truss System
An excellent example of early 19th-century Creole architecture with a distinctive Norman truss roof. Beautifully restored and open for tours, especially during holiday events.
The Guibourd House is an example of poteaux-sur-solle sealed with bouzillage construction.
Centre for French Colonial Life
Four Historic Houses + Museum Campus
A beautiful museum complex featuring multiple restored historic homes and exhibits that bring French colonial life to vivid detail. One of the best places to deeply understand daily life in 18th- and 19th-century Ste. Genevieve.
Jean Baptist Vallé House
Last Colonial Commandant of the Town Under Spanish Rule
The Jean Baptiste Vallé House is one of the most important historic homes in Ste. Genevieve. It was home to Jean Baptiste Vallé, the last colonial commandant of the town under Spanish rule. He held the highest local authority — handling law, military matters, trade, and relations with Native tribes.
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Ste. Genevieve?
Ste. Genevieve is more than just a destination — it’s an experience. Whether you come for world-class antiquing, rich French Colonial history, delicious local dining, or peaceful time in nature, this charming historic town offers something special for every visitor.