One of the questions I hear the most from visitors to our town is, "Where can I buy books and items of the Colonial French culture?" They are not alone. I, too, asked the question when I first visited the town. While we enjoyed the tours, restaurants and shops, I went home with almost empty hands, taking little back of the culture. Yet, even then, the one place I found the book I sought was the 1819 Bossier Store at the Felix Valle House State Park. Now, I'm thrilled to say, there is an even wider selection of Colonial French influenced items that are very affordable. It is a great place to shop for embracing the culture. Donna Rausch, Site Administrator, has done an amazing job of stocking the two room gift shop.
Located in the Bossier-Shaw House, there is no store front--only a sign directing you to tickets and the gift shop, much as it would have been in the 18th-19th century. Inside you'll find two rooms filled with quality items. . .such as. . .
teas and chicory coffee from Oliver Pluff & Company, with the collectible Felix Valle House label on front. If you don't know about Pluff teas and coffees, you're in for an award-winning, "early American experience through its historic beverages." And, anyone who has visited New Orleans and eaten at Cafe du Monde, knows how delicious the chicory coffee and beignets are for breakfast. The Bossier Store also has Pralines, my favorite Creole sweet treat.
You'll find dinnerware, bowls, pitchers, napkin rings and more by the ROUX Company. . .Wish I had had the Jambalaya plate for our Christmas dinner. . .but there's always this year. . .
Jewelry. . .scarves. . .hats. . .and other smaller items can also be found. . .many with the Fleur-de-Lis. . .the ancient symbol of French royalty. . .
The best selection of Colonial French history books you'll find in town are displayed in the first room. . .Some shops carry a few books, but the Bossier-Shaw Store has just about every book available on the subject. There are cookbooks, too, with recipes for those Jambalayas, Gumbos and other dishes from the Creole/Cajun foodways, as well as books for children.
There is redware. . .
Hand-blown glass. . .and handmade baskets. . .
18th century inspired hand-made bentwood containers. . .
And. . .if you're lucky, you'll meet Felix. . .the gift shop resident. . .who loves greeting guests. . .and having his photo taken. . .(???)
If you are planning a trip to Ste. Genevieve to soak up the Colonial French/Creole culture, put the 1819 Bossier-Shaw Gift Shop on your list of places that are a must-see. . .
By-the-way, tour the Felix Valle House while you are there to see the Menard &Valle Trading Post and home. You'll step back in time. . .and learn more about the Colonial French. . .guaranteed. . .
