Title: Ste. Genevieve, Missouri: A Walk through History
Author: Valerie Battle Kienzle, foreword by Bill Hart
Size: 8.5 x 11
Binding: Bookazine
Pages: 48
ISBN: 9781681065090
Price: $17.00

America has been called a melting pot of people and cultures from throughout the world. They, as well as Indigenous peoples who populated this land for thousands of years, contributed traditions, skills, and languages to the mix. Their influences still can be found in the Mississippi River city named Ste. Genevieve, Missouri.

Ste. Genevieve has a fascinating story to tell. This Midwestern settlement contains one of the oldest and finest examples of an authentic French Colonial village in the US. It was the first permanent settlement in the state of Missouri and was named for Sainte Geneviève, the fifth-century patron saint of Paris, France.

What began as a tiny settlement grew and changed as individuals from Germany and other areas incorporated into the population. Years passed and Ste. Genevieve became Americanized, but the area never lost its enthusiasm for French traditions and customs. Annual French-based celebrations continue today.

There’s no shortage of history in Ste. Genevieve. Thanks to the tireless efforts of concerned residents and preservationists, numerous historic structures were saved and revitalized. In 2020, three significant properties in the historic area became Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park, the 422nd unit of the US National Park. Parts of the city have been included in a National Historic Landmark District designation and many properties are included in the National Register of Historic Places.

This book includes five easy walks and some suggested side trips. Each walk includes a detailed map with points of interest accompanied by historical information and photographs. Check out the French architectural influence in centuries-old buildings. Savor the artistic splendor of public murals and Ste. Genevieve Catholic Church’s sanctuary. Visit the shores of the mighty Mississippi River and look for bird species as former resident John James Audubon did or marvel at the timeless craftsmanship and creativity of local residents at The Sainte Genevieve Art Center and Art Museum.

Join author and history enthusiast Valerie Battle Kienzle on this tour of Ste. Genevieve. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Ste. Genevieve, Missouri: A Walk through History will help you see the area from a new perspective.