Missouri’s long and storied history just makes exploring the state – from the landmarks and the parks to the mines and the museums – so much more fun. In fact, we probably stumble across historical sites all the time without even realizing it. If you’re looking for an unforgettable historical site to add to your bucket list, the oldest church in Missouri – which also features a convent, a rectory, and a schoolhouse – certainly deserves consideration.

Nestled in Florissant, Old St. Ferdinand Church's story begins in 1789, when the church was first established. Early congregants worshiped at a log church, built that same year.
Facebook/Old St. Ferdinand Shrine
Throughout the early 1880s, the church would grow significantly with the addition of a rectory, a convent, and a schoolhouse.
Facebook/Old St. Ferdinand Shrine
In 1821, a new church was built, replacing the old log church. Visit the rectory to see a replica of the original log church and a collection of church artifacts dating back to the 1700s.
Wikipedia/Chuck Morris
The growing parish survived and thrived for many years until in the 1950s, a new, larger complex was required, putting the future of the Old St. Ferdinand Church in jeopardy.
Facebook/Old St. Ferdinand Shrine

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An uproar in the community resulted in saving the church complex in 1958. Then, Old St. Ferdinand Shrine earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
Facebook/Old St. Ferdinand Shrine
Today, Old St. Ferdinand Church holds distinction as the oldest Catholic Church west of the Mississippi.
Facebook/Old St. Ferdinand Shrine
For a tour of the Old St. Ferdinand Shrine, call 314-837-2110. Visit the Gift Shop, open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Or, stop by the Book Store Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Facebook/Old St. Ferdinand Shrine
Old St. Ferdinand Shrine is located at 1 Rue St Francois, Florissant, MO 63031.
Facebook/Old St. Ferdinand Shrine
Click here for the official website of Old St. Ferdinand Shrine and Historical Site. Or, go here for Facebook.

Have you ever visited the oldest church in Missouri? Share your experience in the comments! Then, click here to read about a little known Missouri church that’s simply a work of art.

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1 Rue St Francois, Florissant, MO 63031