The Foundation for Restoration of Ste. Genevieve

Promoting the preservation and restoration of historic structures in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri.

Events

Joint History Conference

September 27, 2025

Click here for more information and registration.

Check back soon for a full list of events!

Our Mission

The Foundation for Restoration of Ste. Genevieve is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization that was founded in 1967 with the expressed purpose of promoting preservation and restoration of historic structures and other property that illustrate Ste. Genevieve's early history and culture.

The Foundation also supports the acquisition of knowledge concerning the early settlements and its people by maintaining and sharing the area's history with the public.

In order to accomplish our mission, the Foundation for Restoration of Ste. Genevieve:

Maintains and presents the 1806 Guibourd-Valle Historic House, a registered NRHP Site, and provides public tours, events & services.
Maintains and presents the 1813 Kiel Schwent historic house as its administrative office, and the location of the Mecker Research Library on its premises, as a source of information on the history of the area.
Manages the restoration and upkeep of Ste. Genevieve's Memorial Cemetery.
Provides guidance and assistance to individuals, organizations, and governments desiring to preserve and restore Ste. Genevieve's historic structures.
Promotes tourism as a means to preserve Ste. Genevieve's French Colonial History.
Is the sponsoring organization for the annual events of the King's Ball, the Living in Ste. Genevieve House Tour, the French Heritage Festival, the Deja Vu Spirit Reunion in Memorial Cemetery, the Fall History Conference and the Holiday House Tour.
Maintains a Speakers Bureau presenting informative presentations on the area, its people and customs at no cost for non-profit organizations.
Provides educational awards to stimulate further interest in the area of historic preservation.

Join the Foundation

Join the Foundation for Restoration of Ste. Genevieve and help preserve some of our nation's past!

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Preservation and Restoration

Ste. Genevieve is home to the best collection French Colonial architectural treasures including three of the five existing poteaux en terre (posts in the ground) buildings remaining in the United States as well as many poteaux sur solle (posts on sill) structures. In addition, the town includes early 19th century American and German vernacular buildings that show the influence of migrations into the area after the Louisiana Purchase.

As part of its mission, the Foundation for Restoration of Ste. Genevieve actively sup- ports the preservation and restoration of these important buildings.

The Ste. Genevieve National Historic Landmark district was established in and recognizes the historic and cultural importance of the town’s buildings.

See related articles and information in Wikipedia on:

National Historic Landmark District
Ste. Genevieve's History

The Foundation has developed a Guide for Homeowners in the Historic District to help them understand the ordinances, standards, and available tax credits applicable to the District. To download the guide, click the button below.