Cairo in Alexander County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

Historical Survey Marker

Photographed By Shane Oliver, May 1, 2021

1. Historical Survey Marker Marker

Inscription. The beginning of
the Third
Principal Meridian
is located in the Ohio River
1,735 feet
directly north
of this point.
In November, 1803,
this was the mouth
of the Ohio River.
At this location,
the Lewis and Clark
Corps of Discovery
encamped for
six days.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Exploration. In addition, it is included in the Lewis & Clark Expedition series list. A significant historical month for this entry is November 1803.

Location. 36° 59.254′ N, 89° 9.021′ W. Marker is in Cairo, Illinois, in Alexander County. Marker is on Washington Avenue (U.S. 60/62) south of U.S. 51, on the right when traveling north. Located at the entrance to Fort Defiance Park, in a parking area for the State Highway Patrol office. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Cairo IL 62914, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Lewis and Clark in Illinois (here, next to this marker); Lewis & Clark (here, next to this marker); Cairo Connection (a few steps from this marker); Critical River Confluence (a few steps from this marker); Cairo, Illinois (a few steps from this marker); Great River Road Illinois (within shouting distance of this

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marker); The Ohio River Bridge (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Mississippi River Bridge (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Cairo.

Related markers. Click here for a list of markers that are related to this marker. Third Meridian Markers.

Corps of Discovery Kiosk and other Markers image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Craig Swain

2. Corps of Discovery Kiosk and other Markers

Credits. This page was last revised on June 6, 2021. It was originally submitted on May 27, 2009, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia. This page has been viewed 2,205 times since then and 33 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on June 2, 2021, by Shane Oliver of Richmond, Virginia. 2. submitted on May 27, 2009, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia.