THE HISTORIC
FORT JEFFERSON CROSS
About The Cross
A Historic Landmark Overlooking the Confluence of America’s Great Rivers
Rising 95 feet above the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, the Fort Jefferson Memorial Cross stands as a powerful symbol of history, faith, and community. Located in Fort Jefferson Hill Park in Wickliffe, Kentucky, the illuminated cross honors the region’s role in early American exploration and offers breathtaking views of Kentucky, Illinois, and Missouri.
THE FORT JEFFFERSON MEMORIAL CROSS
A PLACE OF HISTORY AND REFELCTION
The land beneath the Fort Jefferson Memorial Cross holds deep historical significance. In November 1803, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark explored this area while preparing for their legendary expedition west. Their journals record a visit to the site of Old Fort Jefferson, originally built in 1789 by George Rogers Clark and named for Thomas Jefferson.
Though the original fort stood for only a short time, its legacy remains an important chapter in America’s frontier story.
tHE sTORY bEHIND tHE cROSS
The history of the Memorial Cross began in 1937, when members of a local community choir erected a small wooden cross nearby. Over the years, the cross became a beloved landmark, traditionally illuminated during Easter and Christmas.
In 1981, a new vision emerged—to create a cross tall enough to be seen for miles and illuminated nightly as a lasting beacon. Today’s 95-foot Fort Jefferson Memorial Cross fulfills that vision, standing proudly on the bluff as a symbol of remembrance, hope, and unity.
“Standing at the Fort Jefferson Memorial Cross, overlooking the meeting of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, you can truly feel the history and peace of this place. It’s a powerful reminder of where our country began and a beautiful spot for reflection. Seeing the cross lit at night is something I’ll never forget.”
JAN Anderson
Savannah, GA
See The Cross
SCENIC VIEWS AND PEACEFUL SUPPROUNDINGS
Visitors to Fort Jefferson Hill Park are rewarded with:
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Panoramic views of the Ohio and Mississippi River confluence
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A quiet setting for reflection and photography
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A meaningful stop along the Lewis and Clark historical corridor
Whether visiting at sunrise, sunset, or after dark when the cross is illuminated, the site offers a memorable and inspiring experience.
