Bloomsdale: History, Farms and Wine

Bloomsdale combines an early settlement history with longstanding customs, seasonal farm offerings, and wine. When planning your trip, it is worth distinguishing historical topics from offerings with dates that vary. This can help you decide whether to focus on local history, a tasting, or an outdoor excursion.

Settlement History and the Town’s Name

The Janis and Du Clous families were among Bloomsdale’s first settlers. They arrived there around 1790 after migrating from Ste. Genevieve. Thus, two families with early ties to the town, an approximate date, and their origin in Ste. Genevieve are all part of its early history.

Bloomsdale was first called Village of Du Clous. The name Bloomsdale was explained by the word “dale”: a flat place surrounded by hills, where everything bloomed in spring. This explanation combines a landscape image with seasonal blossoms and adds an interpretation of the name to the town’s early settlement history.

Cultural Heritage

The early French settlers introduced LaGuinae as a French custom for celebrating the New Year. This historical tradition connects the town’s settlement history with a specific occasion in the annual calendar.

Saint Agnes in Bloomsdale also has a historical connection: the church was formerly the Saint Matthew Mission. Together with the history of the settlers and LaGuinae, it offers another way to understand the town’s cultural connections.

Landscape and Farm

Baetje Farms is located in Forche du Clos Valley in Bloomsdale, among rolling hills and beside a stream fed by a natural spring. The farm is three miles from Interstate 55. Baetje Farms has received more than 70 national and international awards for its cheese; the number may change as further honors are received.

Seasonal Offerings

As fall attractions, Bloomsdale Fun Farm offers a corn maze and a pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Both offerings are seasonal. Check current operating dates before your trip if you plan to visit either one.

Wine Tastings and Visits

At Chateau Sainte Genevieve Winery, tastings of the full wine selection are offered daily during tasting room hours, with no reservation required. Check current operating details before setting out. The winery also offers a visit that includes a walk through the vineyards, information about the winemaking process, and a wine tasting. Dates and registration requirements for this visit may change.

These offerings differ in their timing: for the fall attractions, take the season into account; for a regular tasting, check the tasting room hours; and for a visit with a vineyard walk, check the specific date and registration requirements.

Access to Magnolia Hollow Conservation Area

To reach Magnolia Hollow Conservation Area from Bloomsdale, first take Highway 61 south, then Route V east, and finally Magnolia Hollow Drive north. River conditions may affect access; factor this into your plans and check conditions before your visit.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Ste. Genevieve, St Mary.

For the broader travel overview: Ste. Genevieve County.