| British Columbia (Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District), Port Alberni — Bicentennial of the Spanish Expeditions to the Northwest Coasts of America — 1771–1991 |
| | [Upper Marker]:
Pedro de Alberni, Captain of the Catalan Volunteers and Commander of the Spanish Establishment at Santa Cruz de Nootka, 1790-1792.
Offered by the Government of Spain on the occasion of the visit of the Spanish training ship “Juan Sebastian el Cano” to the province of British Columbia, April 1991.
[Lower Marker]:
Generalitat de Catalunya
The Autonomous Government of Catalonia joins this bicentennial celebration in remembrance of . . . — Map (db m9155) |
| British Columbia (Columbia Shuswap Regional District), Field — Kicking Horse Pass — Le Col du Cheval-Qui-Rue |
| | First recorded in the report of the Palliser expedition of 1857-60, this pass takes its name from an incident in which Dr. James Hector, surgeon in the expedition, was kicked by his horse while exploring in this vicinity. The pass was virtually unused until after 1881 when the Canadian Pacific Railway decided to adopt it as their new route through the Rockies, foregoing the earlier preference for the more northerly Yellowhead Pass. This decision altered the location of the line across western . . . — Map (db m9202) |
| Ireland, Munster (County Kerry), Anascaul — Tom Crean — Antarctic Explorer — 1877 - 1938 |
| | Expeditions to Antarctica
Discovery, 1901-1904
Terra Nova, 1910-1013
Endurance, 1914-1917
In recognition of his invaluable
contribution to these expeditions
and of his many acts of
selfless heroism on behalf
of his companions
The Tom Crean Memorial Garden
Gardens Donated by the Crean Family.
Sculptor Eamonn O'Doherty July 2003 — Map (db m23045) |
| United Kingdom, Kent, Walmer — Caesar’s Invasion of Britain |
| | The first Roman invasion of Britain led by Julius Caesar landed near here LV BC. — Map (db m24553) |
| Alaska (Sitka Borough), Sitka — 250th Anniversary of the Bering- Chirikov Expedition — 1741-1991 |
| | [Top rim]:
К 250 летию экспедиции В. И. Беринга и А.И. Чирикова
Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Bering-Chirikov Expedition
(English version on left):
May the wheel of change forever turn with peace, justice and opportunity
(Russian . . . — Map (db m8448) |
| Arizona (Mohave County), Littlefield — The Old Spanish Trail — 1829 - 1848 |
| | The Old Spanish Trail, the main trade route between Santa Fe and Los Angeles, passed this way beginning in 1829. At the end of the Mexican-American War this portion of the route evolved into what was variously known as the Salt Lake Road, the Mormon Trail, the California Road, and eventually U.S. Hwy. 91. The original pack trail descended Utah Hill, passed through Beaver Dam, then followed the Virgin River toward Las Vegas. As wagon traffic increased in the 1850s the route veered westward near . . . — Map (db m22729) |
| Arizona (Mohave County), Wikieup — Big Sandy Valley |
| | First exploration probably by early Spanish explorers, Espejo in 1852 and Farfan in 1589. Explored later by Lt. Amiel W. Whipple in 1854. Important agriculture, mining, milling, and smelting area in our early days. The McCrackin Mine discovered by Jackson McCrackin and H. A. "Chloride Jack" Owen in 1874, lies 18 miles south. The Signal Mine was 12 miles south. Stamp mills were at Greenwood, 8 miles southwest and at Virginia City, 9 miles southwest. Cofer Hot Springs 3 miles east. — Map (db m20733) |
| Arizona (Pima County), Sikul Himatk — Quijotoa |
| | This is a Papago word meaning, mountain shaped like a carrying basket.
Discovery of a pocket of gold and silver ore led to a fabulous boom development here in 1883.
The desert has reclaimed the original site and its suburbs of Logan City, New Virginia, Brooklyn and Allen City. The mine was a complete failure—a tiny pocket of riches on the mountain. — Map (db m7002) |
| Arizona (Yavapai County), Prescott — Prescott's Beginnings: The First Mining District in Yavapai County |
| | The City of Prescott had its beginnings in the Spring of 1863 when a party of explorers and would-be gold miners led by the famed Joseph R. Walker arrived near the headwaters of the Hassayampa River. On May 10, 1863, at a location some six miles south-southeast of this Plaza, twenty-five members of the Walker Prospecting and Mining Company adopted "Laws and Resolutions" governing members of the first mining district in what would later become Yavapai County. The rules for the "Pioneer Mining . . . — Map (db m20623) |
| Arizona (Yuma County), Yuma — U.S. Army of the West — Mormon Battalion |
| | Longest Sustained March in U.S. Military History, 1846-1847.
Between 1846 and 1848, the United States and Mexico went to war. One of the major directives of the United States during this war was to secure its western border and to occupy California and the territory of New Mexico. The government asked for volunteers, and over 500 members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints answered the call. Their unit became known as the Mormon Battalion.
The Mormon Battalion was . . . — Map (db m22686) |
| Arkansas (Monroe County), Holly Grove — Beginning Point of the Louisiana Purchase Survey |
| | This stone marks the base established Nov.10,1815
from which the lands of the Louisiana Purchase were surveyed by the United States Engineers. The first survey from this point was made to satisfy the claims of the soldiers of the war of 1812 with land boundries. — Map (db m6037) |
| California (Alameda County), Livermore — William M. Mendenhall 1823 – 1911 / DeAnza Expedition Campsite |
| | [Located at the Livermore Civic Center is a two-sided monument. Side 1 is a marker dedicated to William M. Mendenhall, founder of the town of Livermore. Side 2 is a marker marking this site as a campsite of the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition of 1975 -76]
[Side 1:]
William M. Mendenhall
1823 – 1911
Pioneer settler, a descendant of Quakers who emigrated from England with William Penn. He crossed the plains on horseback in 1845. Was a member of Fremont’s . . . — Map (db m19981) |
| California (Alpine County), Bear Valley — Old Emigrant Road |
| | This Sierra Crossing used by Jedediah Smith 1821 - Major John Ebbetts 1850 - Snowshoe Thompson 1856-76 - Gold Seekers 1850's. Old road left Carson Pass Road in Hope Valley, crossed Border Ruffian Pass to Hermit Valley, Pacific Summit and through Bear Valley to Big Trees. Big Trees Carson Valley Turnpike Co. built toll road over Ebbetts Pass to Silver Mountain in 1860's. Harvey Blood collected tolls at this point from 1864-1910. — Map (db m10730) |
| California (Alpine County), Kirkwood — Kit Carson |
| | On this spot, which marks the summit of the Kit Carson Pass stood what was known as the Kit Carson Tree on which the famous scout Kit Carson inscribed his name in 1844 when he guided the then Captain John C. Fremont, head of a government exploring expedition over the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Above is a replica of the original inscription cut from the tree in 1888 and now is in Sutter’s Fort, Sacramento. — Map (db m12032) |
| California (Alpine County), Kirkwood — Naming of Carson Pass |
| | In February of 1844, John C. Fremont led a group of men over these mountains as they struggled to reach Sutter’s Fort. Little did they know that the pass, which lay 20 to 30 feet under the snow beneath them, would be a major route for the Gold Rush in just a few years. Kit Carson, for whom the pass eventually be named, was among the group. Payroll records show that he was hired as a hunter and Indian Fighter and that Thomas Fitzpatrick was the official guide for the expedition.
On this . . . — Map (db m21278) |
| California (Alpine County), Kirkwood — Snowshoe Thom(p)son — (John Tostensen) — A True Pioneer |
| | “…there ought to be a shaft raised to Snow-Shoe Thompson: Not of marble; Not carved and not planted in the valley, but a rough shaft of basalt or of granite, massive and tall, with top ending roughly as if broken short, to represent a life which was strong and true to the last. And this should be upreared on the summit of the mountains over which the strong man wandered so many years, as an emblem of that life which was worn out apparently without an object…” Attributed to: Dan . . . — Map (db m12028) |
| California (Alpine County), Markleeville — Beautiful Hot Springs Valley — draws people now as it has for thousands of years |
| | Summer after summer the Washoe Indian people visited the valley. Eventually their idyllic retreat was discovered.
During the winter of 1844 Captain John Fremont may have seen this place during his crossing of the Sierra. Fremont’s diary of his crossing west over the Sierra has been interpreted by some historians with his route passing through Hot Springs Valley.
Just ten years later John Hawkins, the first white settler in the valley, began his cattle ranch here. His ranch house was . . . — Map (db m11001) |
| California (Alpine County), Markleeville — Ebbetts Pass — Historical Landmark |
| | Named after Major John Ebbett and pointed out in 1853 to surveyor G.H. Goodard who referred to it as a “route of great promise – probably the best one for a transcontinental railway.”
No emigrant train used this route but a stage road was completed here in 1864 to serve mining region of Silver City. — Map (db m11444) |
| California (Alpine County), Markleeville — Grover Hot Springs |
| | Telltale signs of geologic activity surround Grover Hot Springs State Park. Bold granite peaks to the northwest are the work of immense mountain building forces. Old lava flows cover hundreds of square miles to the east, giving the Markleeville area its distinctly volcanic appearance. Ice Age glaciers carved this valley into the rugged form that visitors admire today.
The hot-springs here are a by-product of similar processes – the interplay of rock and fire and ice. Water melted from . . . — Map (db m13239) |
| California (Amador County), Kit Carson — 338 — Tragedy Spring — No 338 — Erected 1967 |
| | This campsite on the Kit Carson Emigrant Trail was a resting place for California settlers. It was named by members of the Mormon Battalion enroute to Salt Lake Valley. Three of their men, serving as advance trail scouts, were murdered here by unknown persons June 27, 1848. Battalion friends, arriving a few days later, buried them in a common grave and carved their names (Henderson Cox, Ezra Allen, Daniel Browett) on a nearby tree, thus preserving the grave’s location. — Map (db m21273) |
| California (Calaveras County), West Point — 268 — West Point |
| | Named by famous scout Kit Carson while searching for pass over Sierras. One emigrant road forked at Big Meadows, and north branch came directly to West Point. A thriving trading post prior to gold discovery. Bret Harte, famous author, lived here for a period — Map (db m11972) |
| California (El Dorado County), El Dorado Hills — 699 — Mormon Tavern — Overland Pony Express Route - California |
| | At this site on the old Clarksville-White Rock Emigrant Road was Mormon Tavern. Constructed in 1849, this popular stage stop was enlarged and operated by Franklin Winchell in 1851. It became a remount station of the Central Overland Pony Express and on April 4, 1860, pony rider Sam (Bill) Hamilton changed horses here on the first eastbound trip. — Map (db m12056) |
| California (Kern County), Arvin — Francisco Garces O.F.M |
| | Padre Garcés, first recorded non-Indian to visit this locality, came in April of 1776, seeking a new route from Mexico to California. His epic journey covered more than two thousand miles of uncharted wilderness, opening trails that later became highways and railroads. — Map (db m11932) |
| California (Kern County), Lebec — 283 — Don Pedro Fages |
| | In 1772, Don Pedro Fages, leaving the first written record of explorations in the south San Joaquin Valley, passed this site, traveling from San Diego to San Luis Obispo via Cajón Pass, Mojave Desert, Hughes Lake, Antelope Valley, Tejón Pass, Cañada de los Uvas (Grapevine Canyon), and Buena Vista Lake.
Dedicated
October 9, 1938
Bakersfield Parlor No.42 N.S.G.W.
El Tejon Parlor No.39, N.D.G.W.
Kern County Historical Society
Kern County Chamber of Commerce
Department of . . . — Map (db m20132) |
| California (Kern County), Lebec — 129 — Fort Tejon |
| | This military post was established by the United States Army on June 24, 1854, to suppress stock rustling and for the protection of Indians in the San Joaquin Valley. As regimental headquarters of the First Dragoons, Fort Tejón was an important military, social, and political center. Camels for transportation were introduced here in 1858. The fort was abandoned September 11, 1864. — Map (db m2605) |
| California (Lassen County), Susanville — Burial of Peter Lassen |
| | “In November 1859 – almost half a year after Lassen’s death, another party with Joe Kitts, Antone Storff, and John Tutt, began a new trip back to Black Rock. The men were going to bring the remains of Peter Lassen’s body back to Susanville and Honey Lake Valley. Lassen was buried outside Susanville, with Masonic honors, on November 27, 1859. He was buried under the big tree, where he had camped his first night in the valley – and where he had wanted, that his last resting . . . — Map (db m14233) |
| California (Lassen County), Susanville — Lassen’s Bosquejo Rancho |
| | “When Lassen returned to Sutter’s Fort he was still haunted by memories of the beautiful scenery in the North Valley. He decided to apply for land and settle there. There were no settlements at all in this region, so there would be room enough for Peter Lassen. Soon after Lassen sent his application for a grant to the Governor of California, General Manuel Micheltorena. The application was filed on October 11, 1843. Peter Lassen applied for: ‘A vacant place on the River Sacramento, which . . . — Map (db m14226) |
| California (Lassen County), Susanville — Migration of Peter Lassen |
| | “We do not know the exact date on which Peter Lassen arrived in America. Let us suppose that he landed in the early spring of 1831. Most reports say that Lassen arrived in Boston, Massachusetts. Also his passport had Boston written as the destination. Besides, this town was at that time one of the most important immigrant gateways.
“In Boston, Lassen got his first impression of his newly adopted country, America. He must of felt confused by hearing all the different tongues: . . . — Map (db m14190) |
| California (Lassen County), Susanville — Peter Lassen Grave |
| | In memory of
Peter Lassen
the pioneer who was killed by the Indians
April 26, 1859
Aged 66 years — Map (db m10261) |
| California (Lassen County), Susanville — Peter Lassen In California |
| | “In Camponit Peter Lassen and his party had been waiting for the winter to be over. Instead of crossing the mountain ranges on their way south, he and six other persons decided to go by ship from Fort Vancouver. A small steamship, “Lausanne,” from a New York shipping company had landed at Fort Vancouver. On its way back, it should make a stop-over in Yerba Buena – which today is San Francisco. Peter Lassen and his party had the opportunity to be on this boat. Lassen had . . . — Map (db m14213) |
| California (Nevada County), Truckee — Donner Pass — Who Passed This Way |
| | For thousands of years, people have crossed the Sierra Nevada near this place called Donner Pass.
Traveling by foot, wagon, train or automobile, the journey has always been challenging.
By Foot
Long before it’s “discovery” by Euro-Americans, this 7,000 foot pass was used as a travel corridor by Native Americans.
The Washoe Indians trekked through the area, from their Great Basin home enroute to the foothills of California, to gather acorns and to trade. They . . . — Map (db m23571) |
| California (Sacramento County), Franklin — Alexander Hamilton Willard |
| | Born, Charlestown, N.H. Aug. 24, 1778; Died Franklin, Mar. 6, 1865 Last surviving member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He kept a journal and gave valuable service as a gunsmith. — Map (db m10520) |
| California (Sacramento County), Gold River — 746 — The Coloma Road |
| | Alder Springs, South of this point, marks the Old Coloma Road, running between Sutter’s Fort and Culluh-mah (Coloma). Established in 1847, this road was used by James W. Marshall in January 1848 to bring the first gold from Sutter’s Mill to the Fort. Later, travelled by thousands to and from the diggings, it became the route of California’s first stageline, established in 1849 by James F. Birch — Map (db m11901) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — El Camino Real Bell |
| | This commemorative bell celebrates a combined century of service by the California Federation of Women’s Clubs and California State Automobile Association including the establishment of bell markers along the historical El Camino Real. — Map (db m14819) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — Father Junipero Serra — 1713 – 1784 |
| | Dedicated to the Memory of
FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA
1713 - 1784
the first Franciscan missionary
to whom California owes an
everlasting tribute – he brought
civilization to our land and in deed
and character he deserves a foremost
place in the history of our state — Map (db m14817) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — John Sutter Landing |
| | On the south bank of the American River near this spot General John A. Sutter landed August 12, 1839 and founded New Helvetia which is now Sacramento City. Also on this river in the mill race at Coloma fifty miles east of here on January 24, 1848 gold was discovered by James W. Marshall an employee of General Sutter. This monument is erected to commemorate these important historical events — Map (db m14925) |
| California (Sacramento County), Sacramento — Sutter's Fort — This Tree Came From Kandern, Baden, Germany — The Birthplace of General John A Sutter |
| | The Native Sons and Native Daughters of the Golden West planted it on July 19, 1939. and dedicated it September 9, 1948, on the occasion of the celebration of Admission Day and the Centenary of the founding of the modern City of Sacramento. — Map (db m11886) |
| California (San Benito County), San Juan Bautista — De Anza Expedition 1775 – 1776 |
| | Lt. Colonel Juan Bautista de Anza by decree of Carlos III of Spain led and expedition near this site – The mission being to colonize the San Francisco Bay Area. — Map (db m15366) |
| California (San Benito County), San Juan Bautista — 181 — Fremont Peak — – 11 Mile Marker - |
| | In March 1846, Jose Castro, Mexican Military Commander, ordered John C. Fremont from the country, and with Kit Carson and 60 men he moved to top of peak. Built entrenchments, raised flag and awaited attack. Bear Flag Incident and Mexican War followed. State Historical Monument
Historical Landmark No.181
Department of Public Works, Division of Highways — Map (db m15321) |
| California (San Benito County), San Juan Bautista — 181 — John Charles Fremont — 1813 – 1890 |
| | John Charles Fremont was a naturalist, explorer, scientist and Captain with the U.S. Topographical Engineers on his third expedition to the West when he camped on this mountain. His assignment was to survey, map, chart trails and find the shortest route between the East and the West for the U.S. Government.
Besides his military activities in California, Fremont is remembered for giving San Francisco’s “Golden Gate” its name; he was the military Governor of California for 50 days; . . . — Map (db m15318) |
| California (San Benito County), San Juan Bautista — 195 — Mission San Juan Bautista |
| | . . . — Map (db m15353) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — Cabrillo’s Ships |
| | The first three sailing vessels to enter San Diego Bay came from the direction you are facing. They were the San Salvador, the Victoria and the San Miguel - Spanish vessels commanded by Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo. The San Salvador, a galleon, was about 100 feet (30 meters) long and weighed about 200 tons. The Victoria was a caravel, a smaller ship built for sailing in coastal waters. The bergantin San Miguel, with sails and oars, was used mainly for . . . — Map (db m15439) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — 784 — El Camino Real |
| | This plaque is placed on the 250th anniversary of the birth of California’s Apostle Padre Junipero Serra O.F.M., to mark the Southern terminus of El Camino Real as Padre Serra knew it and helped to blaze it.
1713 – November 24 – 1963 — Map (db m11958) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — First Raising of U.S. Flag |
| | On this site the United States Flag was first raised in Southern California by Lt. Stephen G. Rowan U.S.N., Commanding Sailors and Marines July 29, 1846. — Map (db m13043) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — 54 — Fort Stockton |
| | Fortified briefly by Carlos Carrillo in 1838. This site became Fort Dupont (July –November 1846) after American forces took Old Town during the Mexican War. Retaken and held briefly by the Californios, it fell once more to the Americans, who renamed it Fort Stockton and used it as campaign headquarters for ending the Californio Revolt in early 1847. The Morman Battalion stayed here later that year. The post was abandoned on September 25, 1848. — Map (db m11784) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — Fray Junipero Serra |
| | Aca estaba “Cosoy” Antigua Ranchero de los indios Cabrillo la descurrio y la llama “San Miguel” 1542. Viscaino la visito y la nombro “San Diego de Alcada” 1602 aca
FRAY JUNIPERO SERRA
Apostol de California y fundador de su civilizacion Erigno la Primera Cruz – Consagro la primera mission fundo el primer pueblo – San Diego
Julio 16, 1769 — Map (db m13055) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — Joao Rodrigues Cabrilho 1542 — Ao-Navegador-Portugues — Homena-Gen.DaMarinha D-Guerra Portuguesa |
| | To the Portuguese Navigator
Joao-Rodrigues Cabrilho
A tribute from the Portuguese Navy — Map (db m12887) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — Juan Bandini |
| | Dedicated to
JUAN BANDINI
1800 – 1859
Patriot and Friend of the United States — Map (db m13062) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — La Playa Trail |
| |
JEDEDIAH STRONG SMITH
Pathfinder of the Sierras
Here completed the first trail from
The Atlantic to the Pacific, Jan. 1827 — Map (db m14502) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — La Playa Trail |
| | The Oldest Commercial Trail
in the
Western United States — Map (db m14504) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — 242 — Mission San Diego de Alcala |
| | On Sunday, July 16, 1769 Fathers Junipero Serra, Juan Viscaino and Fernando Parron raised and blessed a cross to establish Alta, California’s 1st Mission. Relocated from Presidio Hill to this site in August 1774 the Mission was the mother of those founded in California by the Franciscan Order. The present buildings, first completed in 1813 were rebuilt in stages from 1915 to 1931 after many years of deterioration. They have been in use as a parish church since February 1941. — Map (db m15262) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — 51 — Old Point Loma Lighthouse |
| | This lighthouse built in 1854, was one of the first eight lighthouses on the Pacific Coast. It continued in use until 1891, when the new Pelican Point Lighthouse began operating. The Point Loma Lighthouse became the site of the Cabrillo National Monument in 1913. During World War II the Navy used it as a signal tower. Restored by the National Park Service in 1984, it remains as a reminder of contribution of 19th Century Lighthouse Keepers and their families to California’s maritime past. — Map (db m12881) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — 59 — San Diego Presidio Site |
| | Soldiers, sailors, Indians, and Franciscan missionaries from New Spain occupied the land at Presidio Hill on May 17, 1769 as a military outpost. Two months later, Fr. Junípero Serra established the first San Diego Mission on Presidio Hill. Officially proclaimed a Spanish Presidio on January 1, 1774, the fortress was later occupied by a succession of Mexican forces. The Presidio was abandoned in 1837 after San Diego became a pueblo. — Map (db m11134) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — 67 — Serra Palm |
| | Traditionally the earliest planted tree in California. Directly in the rear, beneath the brow of the hill, lie the dead of the sacred expedition of 1769. Burial place of our first unknown soldiers. — Map (db m11959) |
| California (San Diego County), San Diego — Services of the Mormon Battalion |
| | The historic march of the Mormon Battalion -- -- More than 2000 miles through the wilderness -- -- was made in fulfillment of official U.S. orders. Brigham Young, Prophet – Leader of the Mormons, personally recruited these troops. The Battalion blazed the first wagon trail to the Pacific over the Southern Route, was instrumental in acquiring the vast southwestern empire for the United States; and raised the Stars and Stripes for the first time over Fort Tucson and Fort Moore. Later some . . . — Map (db m14379) |
| California (San Francisco City and County), San Francisco — Roald Amundsen — 1872-1928 |
| | Roald Amundsen, the Norwegian polar explorer, was the first to detect the magnetic North Pole and to navigate the Northwest Passage, the Arctic water route from the Atlantic to the Pacific. He left Norway with a crew of six on June 16 of 1903 in 1 69-foot converted herring boat named Gjoa. Amundsen spent three years on the perilous journey. The Gjoa continued on, sailing through the Bering Strait and anchored off Point Bonita, outside the Golden Gate, on October 19, 1906. The San Francisco . . . — Map (db m21336) |
| California (San Joaquin County), French Camp — 668 — French Camp |
| | Here was the terminus of the Oregon-California Trail used by the French-Canadian trappers employed by the Hudson’s Bay Company from about 1832 to 1845. Michel La Framboise, among others, met fur trappers here annually where they camped with their families. In 1844 Charles M. Weber and William Gulnac promoted the first white settlement colony on Rancho del Camp de los Franceses, which included French Camp and the site of Stockton. — Map (db m15957) |
| California (San Joaquin County), Lathrop — 437 — The Comet – 1846 – First Sail Launch |
| | First known sail launch to ascend San Joaquin River from San Francisco landed here autumn 1846. Carried 20 Mormon pioneers who founded New Hope agricultural project on the Stanislaus. Yoke of oxen and span of mules driven from Marsh’s Landing (Antioch) by two men who followed crude map drawn by Merritt the trapper. Two years later Doak and Bonsell operated here the first ferry on the San Joaquin River. — Map (db m11385) |
| California (San Mateo County), Millbrae — 27 — First Camp After Discovery of San Francisco Bay |
| | On November 4, 1769, the expedition of Captain Caspar de Portola, after crossing Sweeny Ridge, beheld the Bay of San Francisco for the first time. That night they camped at a small lagoon, now covered by San Andreas Lake. Finding the bay too large to go around and thinking they had by-passed Monterey Bay, the expedition camped here again on November 12, 1769 on their return to San Diego.
First made a State Registered Historical Landmark No.27, June 15, 1932, this site was rededicated as a . . . — Map (db m15245) |
| California (San Mateo County), San Gregorio — 26 — Portola Camp |
| | Captain Gaspar de Portola and his party of Spanish explorers, journeying overland from San Diego in a fruitless search for Monterey Bay, camped here by San Gregorio Creek for a three day rest and treatment of their sick, October 24-27, 1769. Having missed Monterey, they later discovered San Francisco Bay instead. — Map (db m11032) |
| California (San Mateo County), San Mateo — 47 — Historic Camp Site |
| | Here on the banks of San Mateo Creek Captain J. B. de Anza camped. March 29,1776, after exploring the peninsula and selecting the sites for the Mission and Presidio of San Francisco. Here also the party of families, soldiers, and priests, on the way to establish San Francisco, camped for three days, June 24-27, 1776. — Map (db m18418) |
| California (Santa Barbara County), Lompoc — La Purisima Mission State Historic Park |
| | Across this bridge lies California's eleventh mission and a glimpse of life during the 1820's. The Civilian Conservation Corps restored the buildings and grounds between 1934 - 1941. We hope you enjoy your visit to the past. — Map (db m11116) |
| California (Santa Clara County), Cupertino — Captain Elisha Stephens — 1804 - 1887 — A True Pioneer |
| | Captain Stephens brought the first wagons
over the snow covered Sierra Nevada
Truckee Pass with no casualties in the
Stephens-Murphy-Townsend party of 1844,
arriving at Sutter's Fort with 11 wagons
and 51 people plus 2 infants born on the
way. Later wagon trains followed his
trail less well. A blacksmith by trade,
Elisha served under Commodore Stockton in
ordnance in the Mexican war, 1846-48.
Stephens was the first American
resident to homestead 160 acres in
"Westside" . . . — Map (db m24125) |
| California (Sonoma County), Sonoma — 4 — Lachryma Montis — Home of General M.C. Vallejo |
| | Erected 1851
Purchased by
State Park Commssion
Through Funds Furnished by
The General Vallejo Memorial Association
And the People of the State of California
Donors Names Within Building
Plaque donated by Historic Landmarks Committee,
Native Sons of the Golden West
1933 — Map (db m15303) |
| California (Sonoma County), Sonoma — 3 — Mission San Francisco Solano |
| | On July 4, 1823, Padre Jose Altimira founded this northernmost of California’s Franciscan Missions. The only one established under independent Mexico. In 1834 secularization orders were carried out by military Commandant Mariano G. Vallejo. San Francisco Solano became a parish church serving the Pueblo and Sonoma Valley until sold in 1881.
This plaque replaces one originally dedicated by the Historical Landmarks Committee, Native Sons of the Golden West, 1926. — Map (db m15273) |
| California (Tuolumne County), Kennedy Meadows — Sonora Mono Toll Road |
| | Oldest of the Trans-Sierra Emigrant Trails to California is spectacular Sonora Pass crossed by Highway 108, second highest (9,626 feet) of all the highway crossings of the range. The Bartleson-Bidwell Party, with mules, horses and oxen, made the first crossing on October 18, 1841. This route was not attempted by wagons until 1852. “Grizzly” Adams took the trail over Sonora Pass in April, 1854, and reported “on all sides lay old axel trees and wheels ….melancholy evidence of . . . — Map (db m12481) |
| California (Tuolumne County), Kennedy Meadows — Sonora Pass — Elevation 9,628 — Historical Landmark |
| | The idea of a wagon road through this pass connecting Tuolumne County with mining towns of Mono County was first called to attention by Andrew Fletcher in 1862. The original trail through Sonora Pass was opened for pack animals in September 1862. The trail passed over this divide, departed from the route of the present highway, one mile west, climbed northwesterly through St. Mary’s pass. Elev. 10, 040 ft. Then down the canyon of the Clark Fork of the Stanislaus River.
Then in 1863 the route . . . — Map (db m12480) |
| Colorado (Conejos County), Sanford — Pike's Stockade |
| |
Near here, on the banks of the Conejos River, Zebulon M. Pike built a log stockade in early February, 1807, and for the first time raised an American flag over what is now Colorado. Pike's trek of 1806-07 was the second official United States expedition into the lands of the Louisiana Purchase, acquired in 1803. Exploring the southern region of the new territory, Pike crossed into the San Luis Valley in January, 1807. On February 26, at the stockade, he and his men were arrested by Spanish . . . — Map (db m22701) |
| Colorado (Costilla County), Fort Garland — Fort Garland |
| | This memorial is the
property of the State of Colorado
———
Fort Garland
United States military outpost
to protect settlers from
hostile Indians. Named for
Brig. Gen. John Garland
Commander of this district in 1858 Established 1858. Abandoned 1883
Commanded by Col. Kit Carson 1866-7
———
Erected by
the State Historical Society of Colorado
from
The Mrs. J. N. Hall Foundation
and by
The . . . — Map (db m22731) |
| Colorado (Denver County), Denver — In Honor of Christopher Columbus |
| | In Honor of Christopher Columbus
(Cristoforo Colombo 1451-1506)
Italian Visionary and Great Navigator
This bold explorer was the first European to set foot on uncharted land, on a West Indies beach in 1492. His four voyages brought Europe and the Americas together, forever changing history. A new nation was to rise. A new Democracy was born.
Sculptor Willaim F. Joseph — Map (db m4743) |
| Colorado (Denver County), Denver — Smoky Hill Trail |
| | This tablet is the
Property of the State of Colorado
——
Here was the end of the famous Smoky Hill Trail
Immigrant and stage road extending
from the Missouri River to Denver.
Traversed by pioneers in 1858.
Surveyed by W.G. Russell in 1860.
Route of Butterfield's Overland
Despatch and Wells Fargo Express.
The trail took its human toll -
Death by thirst and Indian raids. — Map (db m4678) |
| Colorado (Douglas County), Larkspur — Southwest Rises The Summit of Pikes Peak |
| | This mountain, 14,110 feet above the sea and the most celebrated peak in America, is named for the explorer, Capt. Zubulon M. Pike, who saw it first in 1806. He attempted to climb it, failed and reported it unclimbable. Ascended in 1820 by Dr. Edwin James, a later explorer. A cog railway reached the summit in 1890 and a highway, in 1915. Motor races up the peak are held annually. The resort city of Colorado Springs, founded 1871, nestles at its foot where the first town called Colorado stood . . . — Map (db m4846) |
| Colorado (El Paso County), Cascade — The Continental Divide |
| | The Rocky Mountains are the longest chain of mountains in the world. They divide the United States watershed between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Colorado has 53 peaks over 14,000 feet. One inch on the Horizon equals about 38 miles. — Map (db m4838) |
| Colorado (El Paso County), Cascade — Zebulon Montgomery Pike |
| | In recognition of the notable career of
Zebulon Montgomery Pike,
· Soldier -- Explorer ·
The people of Colorado have placed this tablet on the summit of the great mountain first seen by Pike, November 15, 1806.
General Pike was born at Lamberton, now Trenton, NJ, January 5, 1779; died April 27, 1813, after a victorious attack on York, later Ontario, Canada; buried at Madison Barracks, New York.
This tablet commemorates the One Hundredth
Anniversary of Pike's Southwestern Expedition. — Map (db m4865) |
| Colorado (Fremont County), Cañon City — Royal Gorge |
| | Lt. Zubulon M. Pike and his men, who traveled through this area in November and December 1806, were the first American explorers to view the Arkansas River Canyon now known as the Royal Gorge. A small party from the Maj. Stephen H. Long expedition visited the mouth of the canyon in 1820, as did members of Lt. John C. Fremont's expedition in 1845.
In 1878 a right of way through Royal Gorge became the focal point of a bitter struggle between The Denver and Rio Grande and the Atchison, Topeka . . . — Map (db m4329) |
| Connecticut (Litchfield County), Woodbury — Ancient Trading Path |
| | In past times the ancient paths in Connecticut were formed by large animals as they moved with the seasons and migrated to salt deposits. The Native Americans followed these same paths as they hunted these animals, traded with other tribes and also made war in troubled times. European colonials found these paths and used them to trade and migrate into the interior of this state and new nation. This foot path, Main Street, was used by local tribes as they traded and hunted, and colonials as they . . . — Map (db m17638) |
| Delaware (New Castle County), Newark — Enjoy the Pencader Area Today |
| | If you are just "passing through" or are a new resident or even a life-long Delawarean, we hope to spark your interest in the varied activities available in the Pencader Hundred Area. Whether your are experiencing these for the first time or rediscovering your heritage, we hope you enjoy what Pencader has to offer. Left Column Parks The Pencader Hundred Area has many parks for the public to enjoy. Lum's Pond is a state park located on Howell Road just east of Rout 896. Picnic . . . — Map (db m10871) |
| District of Columbia (Washington), Northeast — Christopher Columbus |
| | To the memory of Christopher Columbus whose high faith and indominable courage gave to mankind a new world.
Born MCDXXXVI - Died MDIV — Map (db m8603) |
| Florida (Duval County), Fort George Island — F-211 — Site of the Mission of San Juan del Puerto |
| | Marker Front:
The establishment of missions chiefly for the purpose of Christianizing the Indian population was one of the methods used by Spain in attempting to colonize Florida in the sixteenth century. The Mission of San Juan del Puerto was founded in the late 1500's by the Franciscan Order of friars to serve the Timucuan Indians living in the area. While working at this mission around 1600 Father Francisco Pareja prepared a Timucuan dictionary, grammar and several religious books . . . — Map (db m21654) |
| Florida (Hillsborough County), Tampa — De Soto |
| |
1539 1926
[ DAR Emblem ]
This Tablet Erected By
De Soto Chapter
D.A.R.
Marks the tree under which tradition say's
De Soto
Parleyed with the Indians — Map (db m20789) |
| Florida (Indian River County), Orchid — F-222 — Site of Survivors’ and Salvagers’ Camp — The 1715 Fleet |
| | Late in July, 1715, a hurricane destroyed a fleet of eleven or possibly twelve homeward bound merchant ships carrying cargoes of gold and silver coinage and other valuable items from the American colonies to Spain. About 1500 men, women, and children who survived the disaster and reached the shore made their camp along the barrier island near the place where the fleet’s flagship had sunk. Governor General Corcoles sent a relief party composed chiefly of Indian auxiliaries from St. Augustine to . . . — Map (db m14306) |
| Florida (Martin County), Hobe Sound — F-57 — Jonathan Dickinson Shipwreck |
| | Three miles to the east on September 23, 1696, the British barkentine Reformation foundered off Jupiter Island. The 24 survivors included a party of Quakers bound from Jamaica to Pennsylvania. Leader of the Quakers was Jonathan Dickinson who described the trials of the group in his book, God's Protecting Providence, the first account of Indians on the southeast coast. Attacked by Indians and driven northward, the party arrived at St. Augustine in November, 1696. — Map (db m14311) |
| Florida (St. Johns County), St. Augustine — Juan Ponce De Leon |
| | The
Discoverer of
Florida
Juan Ponce De Leon
landed near
this spot
1513 — Map (db m19432) |
| Florida (St. Johns County), St. Augustine — The Great Cross |
| | This Great Cross marks the approximate site where in 1565 the Cross of Christianity was first permanently planted in what is now the United States.
It is a beacon of the faith to remind all those who pass this way, by land or by sea, of the religious beginning of our Nation.
The Cross was erected by the Diocese of St. Augustine as the climax of the mission's 400th anniversary observances 1965-1966
Father Lopez, first pastor described the landing and settlement here on September 8, . . . — Map (db m4638) |
| Georgia (Baldwin County), Milledgeville — 005-30 — De Soto in Georgia |
| | In May 1539 Hernando de Soto landed in Florida with over 600 people, 220 horses and mules, and a herd reserved for famine. Fired by his success in
Pizarro's conquest of Peru, De Soto had been granted the rights, by the King of Spain, to explore, then govern, southeastern North America. After wintering in Tallahassee, the De Soto expedition set out on a quest for gold which eventually spanned four years and crossed portions of nine states. This was the first recorded European exploration of . . . — Map (db m12307) |
| Georgia (Bibb County), Macon — 011-22 — De Soto in Georgia |
| | In May 1539 Hernando De Soto landed in Florida with over 600 people, 220 horses and mules, and a herd reserved for famine. Fired by his success in
Pizarro's conquest of Peru, De Soto had been granted the rights, by the King of Spain, to explore, then govern, southeastern North America.
After wintering in Tallahassee, the de Soto expedition set out on a quest for gold which eventually spanned four years and crossed portions of nine states. This was the first recorded European exploration . . . — Map (db m23377) |
| Georgia (Chatham County), Savannah — Great Indian Warrior / Trading Path |
| | (The Great Philadelphia Wagon Road) The most heavily traveled road in Colonial America passed through here, linking areas from The Great Lakes to Georgia. Laid on animal trails and Native American Trading/Warrior Paths. treaties among the Governors of New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia and nineteen chiefs of the Iroquois League of Five Nations in 1685 and 1722, opened the colonial backcountry for peaceful settlement and colonization in Georgia. The Path had two branches from Carolina, . . . — Map (db m5648) |
| Georgia (Chatham County), Savannah — 25-45 — James Edward Oglethorpe — (1696-1785) |
| | The monument in this Square to James Edward Oglethorpe - the great soldier-philanthropist who founded the colony of Georgia - was erected by the State of Georgia, the City of Savannah and various Patriotic Societies. Impressive ceremonies marked its unveiling in 1910. The 9 foot bronze statue of Oglethorpe is the work of one of America's foremost sculptors, the celebrated Daniel Chester French. He has depicted the Founder of Georgia in the full dress of a British general of the period. . . . — Map (db m5308) |
| Georgia (Chatham County), Savannah — 025-1 — Landing of Oglethorpe and the Colonists |
| | James Edward Oglethorpe, the founder of Georgia, landed with the original colonists, about 114 in number, at the foot of this bluff on February 1 (February 12, new style), 1733. The site where he pitched his tent is marked by the stone bench located about 100 feet west of this marker. Savannah was for more than 100 years built according to Oglethorpe's unique city plan. Bull Street, the principal street of the city, is named in honor of colonel William Bull of Charleston, S.C., who assisted . . . — Map (db m5263) |
| Georgia (Chatham County), Savannah — Ogeechee Road |
| | Here, in 1735, was the beginning of the road to Darien, now called the Ogeechee Road, probably the first road laid out in Georgia, with the assistance of Tomochichi. — Map (db m6318) |
| Georgia (Chatham County), Savannah — 25-7 — Savannah Waterfront |
| | The colony of Georgia began on Savannah's waterfront in 1733. The riverfront has always played an important role in Georgia, whether as a colonial port, exporter of cotton, or tourist destination. The first commercial house below the bluff opened in 1744. Cotton dominated Savannah's exports throughout the nineteenth century. Construction began in early 1800s for the multi-storied warehouses and "Factor's Walk," named for the cotton brokes whose offices were in the upper floors. River Street, . . . — Map (db m4900) |
| Georgia (Chatham County), Savannah — The "John Randolph" |
| | 1834 1919
This tablet commerates
The "John Randolph"
the first iron vessel seen in
American waters
Riveted together and launched here in 1834,
the plates having been made by John Laird
of Birkenhead, England, and shipped to this
port in sections
Built for Gazaway B. Lamar, Banker and Cotton
Merchant of Savannah
The same great iron shipbuilder
John Laird
built in 1862 the Confederate Cruiser
"ALABAMA" — Map (db m8300) |
| Georgia (Chatham County), Savannah — This is Yamacraw Bluff |
| | This is Yamacraw Bluff where the Colony of Georgia was founded February 12, 1788 by Gen.James Edward Oglethrope. Voted by the Georgia Daughters of the American Revolution the Most Historic Spot In Georgia — Map (db m5291) |
| Georgia (Crisp County), Cordele — 41 0-5 — De Soto Trail — 1540 |
| | Hernando de Soto and his army after crossing to the west side of Flint River near Bainbridge, recrossed it on March 31, 1540, between the mouths of Jones and Gum creeks, and stopped at the town of the Ichisi chief. He was the first that came to them in peace after their departure from the Apalachee country and upon the mound of his village they erected a large wooden Cross, April 1, 1540. The Indians “received it and worshipped it devoutly to all appearance.” — Map (db m23394) |
| Georgia (Floyd County), Rome — 057-16 — De Soto In Georgia |
| | In May 1539 Hernando de Soto landed in Florida with over 600 people, 220 horses and mules, and a herd of swine reserved for famine. Fired by his success in Pizarro's conquest of Peru. De Soto had been granted the rights, by the King of Spain, to explore, then govern, southeastern North America.
After wintering in Tallahassee, the De Soto expedition set out on a quest for gold which eventually spanned four years and crossed portions of nine states. This was the first recorded European . . . — Map (db m23392) |
| Georgia (Glynn County), Jekyll Island — 063-35 — The Spanish on Jekyll Island |
| | Within sight and sound of St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island was ideal for entertaining Spanish visitors to the settlement at Frederica. Major William Horton, resident of the island, received the guests
while Oglethorpe on St. Simons, with cannon booming and his few soldiers appearing and reappearing on the south beach, professed a strength he did not have.
In 1736, Spanish Commissioners Don Pedro Lamberto and Don Manuel d`Arcy, sent by Governor Sanchez of St. Augustine to discuss rival . . . — Map (db m17281) |
| Georgia (Glynn County), St Simons Island — William Bartram Trail — Traced 1773-1777 — Deep South Region |
| | In 1774 William Bartram came to Frederica. He explored St. Simons Island and noted the flora and beautiful live oaks. — Map (db m11639) |
| Georgia (Marion County), Buena Vista — William Bartram Trail — Traced 1773-1777 — Deep South Region |
| | In 1774 William Bartram trekked Old Federal Road through Fort Perry, going on to camp at Pintchlucco (Pine Knot Creek). — Map (db m11384) |
| Georgia (McIntosh County), Darien — 095-10 — Site of Early Spanish Mission |
| | This high bluff was the site of one of the early Spanish Missions of the Old District of Guale. Here, in the late 16th and the 17th centuries, Franciscan friars labored with the Indians, converting them to Chritianity and instructing them in agriculture and other crafts of civilization.
Occupied by a large Indian village before the coming of the Spaniards, this tract was an ideal site for the mission and school activities of the Spanish priests. Archaeological excavations in the area in . . . — Map (db m11200) |
| Georgia (Murray County), Chatsworth — 105-12 — De Soto in Georgia |
| | In May 1539 Hernando de Soto landed in Florida with over 600 people, 220 horses and mules, and a herd of swine reserved for famine. Fired by his success in Pizarro`s conquest of Peru, De Soto had been granted the rights, by the King of Spain, to explore, then govern, southeastern North America. After wintering in Tallahassee, the De Soto expedition set out on a quest for gold which eventually spanned four years and crossed portions of nine states. This was the first recorded European . . . — Map (db m12313) |
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