County of ste. genevieve

History & Founding

Located in southeastern Missouri, this county holds a rich and layered history, deeply intertwined with the French colonial period. Established in 1798 from part of St. Louis County, it stands as Missouri’s oldest county. The name itself derives from Sainte Genevieve, a French settlement founded in 1735 by Louis-Auguste de la Ville de Sainte-Genevieve, who relocated the settlement from across the Mississippi River in Illinois. Originally part of the Illinois Country, the area’s early history is a testament to French exploration and trade. During the American Revolutionary War, the area remained loyal to France, and later became part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. A fascinating anecdote illustrates the region’s early identity: during the War of 1812, British forces briefly occupied Sainte Genevieve, raising the French flag once more, a symbolic moment reflecting the area's complex heritage. The county played a vital role in Missouri’s early development as a frontier agricultural region and a gateway to the west.

Geography & Landscape

The county occupies a distinctive geographical position within the Mississippi River Valley. Spanning 502 square miles, the landscape is characterized by rolling hills, fertile river bottoms, and limestone bluffs. The Mississippi River forms its eastern boundary, while several smaller rivers and creeks, including the Saline River and the Cherry River, crisscross the interior. The terrain is generally gentle, making it conducive to agriculture. The climate is humid subtropical, with warm, humid summers and mild winters. The region experiences occasional severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes. Notable natural features include the numerous sinkholes and caves formed by the underlying limestone bedrock, a testament to the area's karst topography.

Economy & Communities

This county maintains a predominantly rural character, with a population of approximately 17,842. There are no incorporated cities or towns within the county; instead, it comprises unincorporated communities and census-designated places. The economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with soybeans, corn, and livestock being major commodities. While agriculture remains crucial, there’s a growing presence of small businesses and tourism related to the area's historic significance. Notable employers include agricultural cooperatives, local retailers, and businesses catering to the tourism sector. The area’s identity is deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage and its connection to the French colonial past, fostering a strong sense of community and tradition.

Points of Interest

Several points of interest draw visitors to the county. The Ste. Genevieve Historic District, a National Historic Landmark, showcases remarkably well-preserved French colonial architecture. Numerous historic homes, churches, and buildings offer a glimpse into the area’s past. Numerous parks and recreational areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The annual Ste. Genevieve Wine Festival celebrates the region’s burgeoning wine industry. The county is also home to several notable residents throughout its history, including figures involved in early Missouri politics and business. A unique record held by the county is its remarkably intact collection of French Creole architecture, offering an unparalleled window into 18th and 19th-century life along the Mississippi River.