11 Oldest Settlements in Missouri Every History Buff Needs to See

Step Back in Time: The Oldest Towns in Missouri to Visit Today

Click Here for the 10 Oldest Counties in Missouri

Ste. Genevieve (1735)

2020 Population: 4,999
Peak Population: Current

Established in the mid-18th century by French settlers, Ste. Genevieve was born from a desire for rich soil, river access, and the prosperity of the fur trade. Though devastating floods eventually forced the community to retreat to higher ground, the town never lost its foundational spirit. Today, that heritage lives on in a picturesque destination celebrated for its vibrant festivals, curated antique shops, and local dining.

St. Louis (1764)

2020 Population: 301,578
Peak Population: 856,796 in 1950

Established in 1764 by Pierre Laclède and Auguste Chouteau, St. Louis was strategically positioned to become a premier hub for trade and westward expansion. By the early 20th century, the city’s influence peaked, ranking as the fourth-largest in the nation with nearly 900,000 residents by 1950. While the population has since declined to approximately 300,000, St. Louis remains the region’s primary economic engine, distinguished by its historic architecture, expansive park systems, and world-class professional sports venues.

St. Charles (1769)

2020 Population: 70,493
Peak Population: Current

In 1769, French-Canadian fur trader Louis Blanchette established the settlement of St. Charles. Captivated by the rolling bluffs that lined the Missouri River, he originally christened the site Les Petites Côtes, or ‘The Little Hills.’ It later became Missouri’s first state capital from 1821 to 1826, cementing its political and cultural importance. St. Charles is still a growing city with a charming downtown showcasing the city’s history.

New Madrid (1778)

2020 Population: 2,787
Peak Population: 3,350 in 1990

Colonel George Morgan established New Madrid in 1789, fueled by an ambitious vision of creating an American settlement under the jurisdiction of the Spanish crown. Spain granted Morgan permission to settle the region in hopes of boosting population, developing agriculture, and strengthening control of the Mississippi River corridor. Its location made it a vital hub for trade, transport, and early frontier expansion along the Mississippi.

Florissant (1786)

2020 Population: 52,533
Peak Population: 65,908 in 1970

Tracing its roots back to Native American settlements, Florissant transitioned into a French colonial village in the 1780s. Formerly known as St. Ferdinand, the community’s early development was defined by its agricultural landscape and Catholic missions. Today, it stands as one of St. Louis County’s most historic and enduring municipalities.

Herculaneum (1808)

2020 Population: 4,672
Peak Population: Current

In 1808, Moses Austin—a visionary of American industry—founded the town of Herculaneum, drawing inspiration for its name from the ancient Roman city. More than just a settlement, it became a landmark of industrial progress as the first successful lead smelting operation west of the Mississippi. Located along the Mississippi south of St. Louis, the town became a key industrial center supporting Missouri’s early mining economy.

Jackson (1814)

2020 Population: 15,481
Peak Population: Current

Jackson, which dates back to 1813, is among the most historic settlements in southeast Missouri. It served as a regional trading center and later as a hub for agriculture, particularly cotton and corn. The arrival of railroads in the late nineteenth century boosted economic growth and population. Today, Jackson is the county seat of Cape Girardeau County, blending historic roots with modern development.

Franklin (1816)

2020 Population: 70
Peak Population: 355 in 1960

Established in 1816, Franklin stood as a pioneering outpost in the American West. Settlers were drawn to the area by its elevated terrain, rich soil, and strategic location on the Missouri River. By 1821, the town cemented its place in history as the official birthplace of the Santa Fe Trail. However, the river that once promised prosperity eventually forced a retreat; frequent flooding drove residents to higher ground, where they founded New Franklin.

Boonville (1817)

2020 Population: 7,964
Peak Population: 8,319 in 2010

Established in 1817 on the banks of the Missouri River, Boonville emerged as a vital gateway for westward pioneers and river trade. This frontier outpost blossomed into a thriving agricultural hub, fueled first by its bustling port and later by the iron rails of the westward expansion. Today, the town’s legacy lives on through its beautifully preserved historic architecture and rich German heritage, serving as a testament to its foundational role in Missouri’s early economic and political landscape.

Clarksville (1817)

2020 Population: 372
Peak Population: 1,493 in 1880

Clarksville’s roots stretch back to 1817, making it a cornerstone of the Mississippi River’s early shipping history. Despite the decline of river commerce following the expansion of the rail system, this Pike County gem never lost its identity. By protecting its historic architecture and riverfront, Clarksville has evolved into a peaceful small town with timeless riverside scenery.

Marthasville (1817)

2020 Population: 1,245
Peak Population: Current

Nestled along the Missouri River in western Warren County, Marthasville is a charming river town with deep historical roots. Originally named Wilber, the community was later rechristened in honor of Martha, the wife of a local railroad official. While its history has been shaped by the ebb and flow of frequent river floods, modern Marthasville has blossomed into a destination known for its rural beauty, local wineries, and direct access to the Katy Trail State Park.

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Oldest House in Missouri (1792)

The oldest standing building in Missouri is generally considered the Louis Bolduc House in Ste. Genevieve. The French Colonial home was built around 1792

Oldest Restaurant in Missouri (1834)

J. Huston Tavern in Arrow Rock is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Missouri. Judge Joseph Huston built the restaurant in 1834.