198 Merchant Street
Sainte Genevieve, Missouri
573-883-7102

The Felix Vallé State Historic Site consists of several buildings that preserve and interpret various examples of the architecture and history of Sainte Genevieve. The centerpiece of the site is the Felix Vallé House, built in 1818 by its original owner, Jacob Philipson. This combination mercantile store and residence was constructed out of native limestone in the Federal style and illustrates the influence Americans had on the community following the Louisiana Purchase. Philipson sold the house in 1824 to Jean Baptiste Vallé, the son of Francois Valle, who was the first Spanish commandant of the town when it was under Spanish rule. Felix Vallé, the fourth son of Jean Baptiste became the owner in 1835. The building housed the trading firm of Menard & Vallé as well as the residence of Felix and his wife Odile. With the help of recovered ledgers the mercantile store (photo right) is currently stocked with items that would’ve been available during Felix Vallé’s time.

While holding firmly to their French traditions, including language and religion, the Vallés embraced the modern features of 19th century life that became available with the advent of steamboat traffic on the Mississippi River. The residential portion of the building is spacious and furnished with period pieces including furniture, clothing, glass and house wares. Some of the pieces on display originally belonged to the Vallé family. In back of the home is a building which housed the kitchen and in the yard is a typical family garden. Guided tours of the home that explain the history and lifestyle of this period are included with the price of admission.

Across the street is the Dr. Benjamin Shaw House. Built ca. 1819 by Jean Baptiste Bossier, this building served as a store house for his mercantile business. In 1837 Bossier sold the building to Shaw who made significant additions to Bossier’s small building and converted it for use as a residence. The restored building is now used as an administrative office for the site. The newest addition to the site is the Bauvais-Amoureux House on St. Marys road which is an example of the earlier French Creole style of architecture. The site is operated by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Visiting the Felix Vallé State Historic Site
From April 1 to October 31, the site is open daily: Wednesday - Sunday: 10 am - 4 pm and Sunday from 12 - 5 pm
From November 1 to March 31, the site is open Thursday - Sunday: 10 am - 4 pm and Sunday from 12 - 5 pm
The Bauvais-Amoureux House is open on weekends April 1 through October 31, and open daily June 1 through mid-August
Group tours are available year-round with advance reservations.
The Beauvais-Amoureux House and the Dr. Benjamin Shaw House are part of the Felix Vallé State Historic Site. Admission covers access to both sites.