Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park

Established by 1750, Ste. Geneviève was the first permanent European settlement in Missouri. Early French Canadian settlers were drawn here by the rich agricultural land known as Le Grand Champ (the Big Field). After the flood of 1785, the town relocated to its present location on higher ground approximately three miles to the northwest of its original site.

From north of Ste. Genevieve (e.g. St. Louis), take I-55 South to exit 150. Follow MO-32 East for about 4 miles. Turn right on Market Street. From south of Ste. Genevieve (e.g. Cape Girardeau), take I-55 North to exit 150. Follow MO-32 East for about 4 miles. Turn right on Market Street. From southern Illinois, you can also take the Ste. Genevieve - Modoc Ferry across the Mississippi. Please visit http://stegenmodocferry.com/ for hours and rates.