All Arts and History in Sainte Genevieve

Milice Encampment – 18th-Century Living History in Sainte Geneviève Twice yearly—typically the second Saturday in April and October—the grounds of the LeMeilleur House transform into working 18th-century military camp as the Ste. Geneviève Militia, Inc. hosts the Milice Encampment, bringing colonial-era French and Spanish frontier life to vivid reality. This free, family-friendly living history event (9:30 AM-4 PM) operated by the Centre for French Colonial Life invites visitors of all ages to explore authentic demonstrations including gun building, chair seat weaving, spinning, and leatherwork, while children participate in hands-on period crafts and activities. Experience direct, engaging immersion in the skills and traditions that shaped early Sainte Geneviève—no ropes, no glass cases, no museum distance. Just artisans working in period dress, demonstrating 18th-century craftsmanship, answering questions, and welcoming curiosity about daily life when French colonists and Spanish administrators defended Missouri’s oldest settlement. Practical Information Event Name: Milice Encampment Schedule: Twice yearly, typically second Saturday in April and October Time: 9:30 AM – 4 PM Location: LeMeilleur House grounds, Centre for French Colonial Life, Sainte Geneviève, Missouri Host: Ste. Geneviève Militia, Inc. Operator: Centre for French Colonial Life Admission: Free Age Appropriateness: All ages welcome; hands-on children’s activities available Demonstrations: Gun building, Read more…

The Patron Saint of Paris Did you know the “Ste” in Ste. Geneviève is the abbreviated form of Sainte because the town is named after a French female saint? Ste. Geneviève lived around 400 AD and was well-loved by the French. She is known as the patron saint of Paris since she is attributed to having saved Paris from Attila the Hun. The Church of Ste. Geneviève has a large statue of her above the front doors, a side altar dedicated to her, and a famous painting “The Vows of Ste. Geneviève” which is purported to have been given to the parish by King Louis XV. Read more…

The King’s Ball (or Queen’s Ball during leap year) is an annual French-inspired celebration of music and dancing that was held in Ste. Genevieve over 200 years ago, and it continues today! Revelers are encouraged to dress in period attire to add to the ambience, and the musical ensemble will provide instructions for the period dances. What is hidden in the King’s cake will determine the “King” or “Queen” for the year. Guests are welcome to bring snacks, plus there will be a cash bar. The Queen’s Ball will be held at the VFW Hall on February 3, 2024 from 6:00p until 11:00p. Proceeds will go to the Foundation for Restoration of Ste Genevieve. Read more…

Sainte Genevieve Museum Learning Center – A Collection Born of Passion The Sainte Genevieve Museum Learning Center offers visitors an extraordinary journey through natural history, ancient cultures, and local heritage—but what makes this museum truly special is a story that often goes untold. Behind the impressive displays, detailed dioramas, and remarkable collections lies the lifetime dedication of individuals whose passion for discovery and craftsmanship created something far greater than any institutional budget could have purchased. One Man’s Lifelong Quest: The Guy Darrough Collection At the heart of this museum beats the collecting passion of Guy Darrough, whose journey began as a boy combing the banks of the Mississippi River for fossils, artifacts, and treasures. What he found along those muddy shores became the foundation for something remarkable—not just a collection, but a lifetime of learning, trading, and building relationships with collectors and institutions around the world. Guy didn’t just collect; he created. The impressive dinosaur models that dominate the museum’s Hall of Giants? Guy constructed those himself, bringing prehistoric creatures to life with his own hands and expertise. His brother Fred contributed his own craftsmanship, building the museum cases and display fixtures that house the collections—a true family endeavor where Read more…