Ste. Genevieve

Ste. Genevieve sits on elevated ground overlooking the Mississippi River, with its historic district filled with vertical wooden post structures and limestone buildings that showcase colonial construction methods. The homes reflect the craftsmanship of early French settlement.

French Canadian colonists founded this settlement in 1735 as the first European community west of the Mississippi River in present-day Missouri. It quickly became a center of early French trade along the waterway.

The city celebrates its French colonial heritage through the yearly tradition of La Guiannée, when performers sing traditional songs from door to door on New Year's Eve.

A visitor center on Market Street offers guided tours and information about the preserved colonial buildings. The streets are easy to walk, allowing you to explore the historic neighborhoods at your own pace.

Natural salt springs near Saline Creek provided early French settlers with essential minerals for food preservation, making this location ideal for early survival and trade. This resource was instrumental in establishing and growing the community.

Location: Ste. Genevieve County

Inception: 1735

Elevation above the sea: 117 m

Website: http://stegenevieve.org

GPS coordinates: 37.97690,-90.04860

Latest update: December 14, 2025 21:19