Cities and Towns in Sainte Genevieve County, Missouri
Founded in 1812, Sainte Genevieve County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Sainte Genevieve County was one of the five original counties. The city of Ste. Genevieve is the county seat. With FIPS code of 186, Sainte Genevieve County has a population of 18,588 and area of 502 square miles (1,300 km²).
List of all cities in Sainte Genevieve County, MO alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Bloomsdale, MO | 63627 | 573 |
Clearwater, MO | 63670 | 573 |
Coffman, MO | 63670 | 573 |
Lake Forest, MO | 63670 | 573 |
New Offenburg, MO | 63670 | 573 |
Rocky Ridge, MO | 63670 | 573 |
Saint Marys, MO | 63673 | 573 |
Sainte Genevieve, MO | 63670 | 573 |
Ste Genevieve, MO | 63670 | 573 |
Weingarten, MO | 63670 | 573 |
Zell, MO | 63670 | 573 |
Major Cities and Towns in Sainte Genevieve County, Missouri
Ste. Genevieve
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 7.35 sq mi
- Population: 4,400+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 63670
- Latitude: 37.9833° N
- Longitude: 90.5500° W
Location and History
Ste. Genevieve is the county seat and oldest permanent settlement in Missouri, located in the southeastern part of the state along the Mississippi River. The town was established in 1750 by French Canadian settlers, making it one of the earliest European settlements west of the Mississippi. Ste. Genevieve served as an important fur trade center and a gateway to the Missouri Territory. The city’s French colonial heritage is evident in its historic architecture, particularly the French-style “poteaux en terre” (post-in-the-earth) houses, which are a unique feature of the region. Ste. Genevieve was an active center during the American Revolution and the early years of the United States, and it remained an important site during the 19th century for trade, agriculture, and mining. The city’s strategic location along the Mississippi River also made it a critical stop for riverboat traffic, helping its economy flourish. Ste. Genevieve was incorporated as a city in 1882, and its rich history has led to its designation as a National Historic Landmark District, with numerous preserved structures from its colonial past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ste. Genevieve is served by the Ste. Genevieve R-II School District, which includes Ste. Genevieve High School. The district is known for its academic achievements and strong extracurricular programs, including athletics and the arts. Ste. Genevieve is also home to the Valle Catholic Schools, a private institution offering K-12 education with a strong focus on academic rigor and faith-based values. Major landmarks in Ste. Genevieve include the Ste. Genevieve National Historic Landmark District, a collection of preserved French colonial homes and buildings that reflect the city’s unique architectural heritage. The city is also home to the historic Sainte Genevieve Catholic Church, built in the 19th century, and the Felix Vallé House State Historic Site, which showcases the life and legacy of a prominent early settler. Another notable site is the Governor Alexander McNair House, which was the home of Missouri’s first governor and serves as a museum. The town’s picturesque setting along the Mississippi River, along with its historical buildings and cultural institutions, makes Ste. Genevieve a major tourist destination for history enthusiasts.
Bloomsdale
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.89 sq mi
- Population: 900+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 63627
- Latitude: 37.9222° N
- Longitude: 90.3450° W
Location and History
Bloomsdale is a small community located in the northern part of Ste. Genevieve County, about 10 miles north of Ste. Genevieve city. Originally settled in the mid-19th century, the town grew as an agricultural center and benefited from its location near the Mississippi River and major trade routes. Named for its local blooms and the fertile soil surrounding the area, Bloomsdale’s economy was historically driven by farming, particularly fruit and vegetable crops, as well as mining. It served as a rural farming hub, with many residents working in agriculture or in small local businesses. Over the years, Bloomsdale has retained its small-town character and rural atmosphere, though it has seen some growth due to nearby urban developments. The town is an example of the many rural communities that were established during the settlement of southeastern Missouri, with roots dating back to the early 1800s. Bloomsdale remains largely agricultural, with many residents involved in farming or related industries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bloomsdale is served by the Ste. Genevieve R-II School District, which includes schools such as Bloomsdale Elementary. This small school provides quality education to the area’s children, offering a personalized learning environment with a strong emphasis on community involvement. There are also several private schools in the region, including those connected to nearby Catholic churches. While Bloomsdale does not have as many major landmarks as larger cities, the town is home to several historic buildings and structures that reflect its rural past, such as old farmhouses and barns that tell the story of the area’s agricultural history. One key landmark in Bloomsdale is the St. Agnes Catholic Church, which is central to the community’s religious and cultural life. The church, with its traditional architectural style, is a gathering place for residents and hosts various community events. Additionally, the surrounding countryside offers scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, hunting, and fishing, making the area a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and tourists alike. Bloomsdale is also located near several regional parks and recreational areas, which provide additional space for outdoor leisure and community events.
River aux Vases
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.56 sq mi
- Population: 400+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 63670
- Latitude: 37.9240° N
- Longitude: 90.4780° W
Location and History
River aux Vases is a small, rural community located in the western part of Ste. Genevieve County. The town’s name, meaning “River of Vases,” was derived from the nearby stream that runs through the region. Originally settled in the early 19th century, River aux Vases developed around agriculture and trade, with its early residents primarily involved in farming and fishing. The settlement benefited from its proximity to the Mississippi River and the town of Ste. Genevieve. The area saw some industrial growth in the 19th century, though it remained relatively small and rural. River aux Vases is one of the more isolated communities in Ste. Genevieve County, but its rural setting gives it a strong sense of community, where many families have lived for generations. Over time, the area has remained agricultural, with most residents involved in farming, ranching, and related industries. The community remains one of the county’s smaller but cherished rural settlements, preserving its historical charm and natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
River aux Vases is part of the Ste. Genevieve R-II School District, so students typically attend schools in the nearby town of Ste. Genevieve. The small community has limited commercial development, but its residents rely on the nearby towns of Ste. Genevieve and Bloomsdale for most of their educational, recreational, and retail needs. The town has a few notable landmarks, including the River aux Vases Baptist Church, a key religious and social hub for the community. This church serves as a gathering place for worship and social events, fostering a tight-knit community spirit. The surrounding natural environment is a major draw for those who enjoy rural life, with many residents involved in agriculture or nature-based industries. The area’s proximity to the Mississippi River allows for outdoor recreational activities, and the nearby Mark Twain National Forest offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities. River aux Vases is also a short drive from historic Ste. Genevieve, making it a peaceful, rural place with easy access to the cultural and historic landmarks of the larger city.