A Region Rich in History
Our Students Lead the Way in Preserving It
Visit SEMO
Old Town Cape is a nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing downtown Cape Girardeau. They focus on preserving the area's historic charm while boosting local businesses and creating a vibrant, welcoming community.
Through this strong partnership between SEMO and Old Town Cape, Bailee is gaining experience in community-based preservation work, helping bring new life to downtown and building a resume that stands out.
15 Local Partnerships
Cape Girardeau isn’t just a beautiful river town; it’s the perfect backdrop for bringing historic preservation to life. As a SEMO student, you’ll go beyond the classroom into a city full of historic buildings, hidden stories, and community projects waiting for your expertise. In your first year, you’ll help preserve important places, connect people to their shared past, and build field experience.
These are just a few of the internship opportunities you’ll find:
/ SEMO Special Collections and Archives - Here, we preserve and share materials that document the history and culture of Southeast Missouri, the Mississippi River Valley, and the University itself.
/ The Glenn House - Built in 1883, the Glenn House is a beautifully restored Victorian-era museum in Cape Girardeau that offers a seasonal glimpse into 19th-century life through its architecture, furnishings, and period details.
/ Missouri Main Street Conference - This is an annual event that brings together community leaders and professionals to celebrate, strengthen, and learn new strategies for preserving and promoting the unique character of historic commercial districts.
/ Old Lorimier Cemetery - Established in 1808 on a 5.47-acre hilltop plot in Cape Girardeau, Old Lorimier Cemetery is the city’s first public cemetery and final resting place for over 6,500 people, including Civil War soldiers. Students regularly participate in cemetery headstone cleaning workshops.
Explore the full list of partnerships and internship opportunities!