Ste. Genevieve Memorial Cemetery - Image 1
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Ste Genevieve Memorial Cemetery

4.7
·18 reviews·Ste. Genevieve, United States

Step back over 250 years into Missouri's French colonial past at this historic cemetery, a true gem for history buffs.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

October evenings

Experience the 'Deja vu' event

CrowdMedium
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Ste. Genevieve Memorial Cemetery - Image 1

Ste Genevieve Memorial Cemetery

Best Time

October evenings

Experience the 'Deja vu' event

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back over 250 years into Missouri's French colonial past at this historic cemetery, a true gem for history buffs.

4.7
(18 reviews)

"Not often you can see graves of people that lived in Missouri before it was US territory."

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TIP

👻 Halloween Fun

Perfect for a spooky Halloween visit or attending the 'Deja vu' event in October!

📜 Research Names

Look up historical names beforehand to enhance your appreciation of the early settlers' graves.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Colonial Era Graves

Colonial Era Graves

See tombstones from the 1700s, offering a tangible link to Missouri's French Settlement history.

Historic Sarcophagus

Historic Sarcophagus

Discover an intriguing above-ground sarcophagus, a unique burial style from centuries past.

Familiar Historical Names

Familiar Historical Names

Recognize names of early settlers, connecting the cemetery to the broader history of Ste. Genevieve.

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Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time

Explore a cemetery with residents from the 1700s, predating US territory status. It's a unique glimpse into Missouri's French colonial past and a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Plan Your Visit

While free to visit, consider timing for events like 'Deja vu' in October. Researching family names beforehand can enhance the experience of seeing graves from over 250 years ago.

Best Times

When
October evenings
Why
Experience the 'Deja vu' event
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime, any day
Why
Quiet exploration of history
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

What should I absolutely do in St. Louis if I'm interested in its history?

👻 Halloween Fun

Perfect for a spooky Halloween visit or attending the 'Deja vu' event in October! Reddit

📜 Research Names

Look up historical names beforehand to enhance your appreciation of the early settlers' graves. Reddit

reddit.com

Is Ste. Genevieve worth a visit?

reddit.com

My top 8 history things to do with a visitor to Mid-Missouri, what are cool things to see in your region of Missouri?

🚶‍♀️ Walk with Respect

Tread carefully and respectfully among the ancient tombstones, some over 200 years old. Reddit

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Tips

from all over the internet

👻 Halloween Fun

Perfect for a spooky Halloween visit or attending the 'Deja vu' event in October! Reddit

📜 Research Names

Look up historical names beforehand to enhance your appreciation of the early settlers' graves. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk with Respect

Tread carefully and respectfully among the ancient tombstones, some over 200 years old. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(18 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ste Genevieve Memorial Cemetery as a historical gem, offering a unique glimpse into Missouri's French colonial past with graves dating back to the 1700s. The chance to see tombstones from before the US territory era is a highlight. Some note the absence of original wooden crosses and the potential for a spooky Halloween visit.

"A great gem for history buffs. This cemetery has not had a new resident since 1881. That's because it was founded in the 1700s. Not often you can see graves of people that lived in Missouri before it was US territory.

If you catch a lot of the town history you will see a lot of familiar names here. Kind of makes your hair stand up when you think about people standing here over 250 years ago. Highly recommend a visit."

Matt Alvino

"Looking for a relatives marker from 1801 Francois Coleman, old wooden crosses are long gone."

James Coleman

"Beautiful cemetery and wonderful history."

Andy Chandler

What People Like

Fascinating historical significance
Graves from 1700s
Unique sarcophagus

What People Dislike

Old wooden crosses gone

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The cemetery is located in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri. It's easily accessible by car. Use GPS navigation to find its exact location within the town. Reddit

Typically, there is street parking available near the cemetery. Be mindful of any local parking restrictions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to the cemetery is free. However, special events like 'Deja vu' may have a small entrance fee. Reddit

The cemetery is generally open during daylight hours for visitors to explore. Special event hours may vary. Reddit

Yes, the cemetery is accessible year-round, though weather conditions might affect comfort during winter months. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

This cemetery is significant as it contains graves of residents from the 1700s, predating Missouri becoming a US territory. It's a key site for French Settlement history. Reddit

Expect to see very old tombstones, some over 200 years old, including unique burial markers and potentially an above-ground sarcophagus. Reddit

While official guided tours might not always be available, the historical context makes self-guided exploration very rewarding. Check local historical society listings for potential tours. Reddit

Yes, it's a place for walking and reflection. Be prepared for uneven ground as it is an old cemetery. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use. Please be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ste. Genevieve has several charming restaurants and cafes offering local cuisine. You can find options for various tastes and budgets nearby. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the unique, weathered tombstones and the sarcophagus for striking historical photos. The overall atmosphere offers great photographic opportunities. Reddit

Yes, taking photos of gravestones is generally acceptable for personal memories. Ensure you are respectful and do not disturb the site. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ste Genevieve Memorial Cemetery can be a fascinating, albeit somber, educational stop for families interested in history. Encourage children to look for dates on the tombstones and discuss how old they are. The 'Deja vu' event in October offers a more interactive and engaging experience for younger visitors, turning historical figures into characters. Ensure children understand the importance of respecting the cemetery grounds. Reddit

📜 History Buffs

This cemetery is a goldmine for anyone passionate about early American history, particularly the French colonial period in the Midwest. Researching prominent families or individuals buried here before your visit can significantly deepen your appreciation. The chance to see graves from before Missouri was a US territory is a rare and compelling draw. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into French Colonial History

Ste Genevieve Memorial Cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it's a living testament to Missouri's earliest European settlers. Founded in the 1700s, it predates the Louisiana Purchase and offers a rare opportunity to see graves of individuals who lived in the region before it was even part of the United States. Many of the names found here are familiar from the town's historical records, providing a tangible connection to the founding families of Ste. Genevieve. Visiting this cemetery is like walking through a history book, with each weathered stone telling a silent story of a bygone era. Reddit

Unique Burial Practices and Features

The cemetery showcases a variety of historical burial practices. While many graves are marked with traditional headstones, some are more elaborate, including an intriguing above-ground sarcophagus. This particular feature, with its visible signs of age and wear, sparks curiosity about the individuals interred within and the customs of the time. The presence of old wooden crosses, though long gone, is also noted in historical accounts, hinting at the evolving landscape of memorialization over the centuries. Reddit

Experiencing the 'Deja vu' Event

For a truly immersive historical experience, consider visiting during the 'Deja vu' event held annually in October. This unique event brings history to life as actors, dressed in period costumes, stand by grave sites. They portray the deceased, sharing narratives of their lives and historical context. It's a popular and engaging way to connect with the past, offering a memorable and educational evening for visitors. Reddit

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