The association was created in 1995 (under the law of 1901) with the main purpose of preserving and enhancing the Grenouillère Island, the birthplace of the impressionnists, with the reconstruction of the celebrated 19th century floating music-hall café described by Maupassant in various novels and painted by Monet and Renoir in 1869.

The association carries out research related to the Grenouillère, Impressionnism, and boating on the Seine, holds conferences, organises exhibitions, visits, and festival events with painting competitions around the site. TheFriends of the Grenouillère (Les Amis de la Grenouillère) are continuously active in looking to expand and enrich the collection of paintings, drawings, and memorabilia.

Since its opening in May 1998, the museum of La Grenouillère situated in the Maison Joséphine , Croissy-sur-Seine, is run throughout the year by the association.