Last updated: March 21, 2023
Thing to Do
Visit the Bauvais-Amoureux House
The Bauvais-Amoureux House was built in 1792 for Jean-Baptiste Bauvais. It is one of only three known surviving poteaux-en-terre style houses in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri and one of only five such houses known in North America. Here, Pélagie Amoureux, a woman who was formerly enslaved, and her husband Benjamin, a Frenchman, raised their family after purchasing the house from the Bauvais family in 1852.The Bauvais-Amoureux House has long been recognized for the importance of its architecture, but it is also important for its ability to illustrate the varied backgrounds of Ste. Genevieve residents and the African American experience in the community.
Visit the Bauvais-Amoureux House to explore the meaning of "home." The grounds are open year round. The interior is open during scheduled ranger programs.
The Bauvais-Amoureux House and grounds are currently closed for a roofing project.
Learn more about the Bauvais-Amoureux House.
Pets are not allowed inside the house, but leashed pets are welcome outside on the grounds. Service animals are allowed inside the house.
Free guided tours are offered daily, depending on staffing and weather. Tours are limited to 15 individuals and free tickets are required. Tour tickets are available at the Welcome Center on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Advanced reservations are always required for groups of 15 or more. Make a reservation or get more information about current availability by calling 573-880-7189 or sending us an email.
The home is about 200 feet from the parking area across a mostly-level, mowed lawn. Limited parking is available in the driveway directly adjacent to the house for visitors with mobility limitations.
The Bauvais-Amoureux House is in the process of being improved to meet accessibility standards. Please inquire at the Welcome Center for up-to-date accessibility information.