Sainte Geneveive, MO

Old Brick House

In 2014, Don and I visited the old Missouri town of Ste. Geneveive.  Since it was established in 1735 by French Canadian Colonists, it seemed like a good place to enjoy some historic dining. We started with drinks at the Old Brick House, which is the oldest establishment in town... I believe. The locals were talking politics, but soon the discussion turned towards area history. One woman knew a lot of local history, since she was born in an old house just up the road. She and others talked about when the Mississippi River ran backwards, due to an earthquake in 1812.  

The Anvil

It was close to 8:00 when we decided we better rush, before food service closed in the small town.  We headed towards The Anvil,  just a few steps away.  The building first opened as a hardware store in 1850.  In 1855, the Vaeths bought the store and opened a Gentleman's Bar called The Anvil Saloon. The Vaeth family owned the business until 1978. I should have asked if there are still Vaeths in town. 

The Bar

We grabbed a table not far from the bar.  I've been inside a lot of old saloons, so my eyes were actually more drawn to the framed image of The 3 Stooges and the sad clown art,  mounted on the brick wall.  But really, the bar was worthy of my attention.  In 1855, the heavy pieces that made up the bar and back bar, had been traveling down the Mississippi by steamship.  When the ship became stranded on a sandbar not far from Ste. Genevieve, they needed to lighten the load.  The bar pieces were unloaded and moved by ox cart to this location.

Food

I have to thank "YELP" for the bar photo, because I forgot to get a shot.  But I did capture a photo of the food on my plate. Mostly I wanted to document the fact I ate LIVER DUMPLINGS and gravy!  The grilled chicken, and German potatoes were very yummy. The roll reminded me of grade school lunch. (which is a good thing) and the dumplings... well, they did not get finished.  That's because I hate liver. But I did enjoy the opportunity.  And the gravy was tasty.  

Dessert?

This is where I would have had dessert, had it not been dark and closed, when we walked past after dinner.  All in all, our drink & dining experience was about the buildings and history. Our meal at The Anvil, was fine but we did feel rushed, knowing the kitchen wanted to close. The town was charming and well worth the stop!