We Serve to Preserve

Rocheport is a small town with a rich history, located in the middle of Missouri. Rocheport was a site on the Lewis and Clark Expedition and hosted a Whig Party gathering in the 1840s. It once was a thriving shipping port and was located on the MKT railroad. It was the home of the only tunnel on the MKT railroad and that tunnel was featured in a Stephen King movie. Many historic buildings remain. Because of its historic significance, Rocheport was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

The Friends purchased and restored the oldest Rocheport building, now in use as a museum. The organization also has sponsored the repair of the Community Hall, the purchase and partial restoration of the 1914 school building and the erection of the markers at the ice house and north and east entrances to Rocheport.

From 1967-1980, the Friends sponsored an annual Friends Fest. Today the Friends sponsor fundraising and celebratory events throughout the year to support the maintenance and preservation of buildings in the community and provide information regarding the history of Rocheport.

Our 2025 bicentennial celebration included an entire year of special events.

These activities would not be possible without our tireless volunteers and the financial support of those who love Rocheport and all that it has to offer.

Board of Directors

Ina Linville, President
Marcia Voss, Vice President
Tim Carson, Secretary
Steve Baumgartner, Treasurer
Phyllis Barks
Gene Baumann
Debbie Netemeyer
Louise Stanley

1967 Founding Directors

Melvin Avery • Mrs. Dorothy Caldwel • Pete Christus • Mrs. J. C. Cope • Carl Rapp • George Grazier • Mrs. C. B. Brooks • Mrs. George Russell