Ferndale in Humboldt County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Centerville Beach Cross
To the memory of the 38 pioneers who lost their lives in the wreck of the steamer "Northerner" on January 6, 1860.
By Ferndale Parlor, NSGW, 1921.
Rebuilt because of the earthquake of 1992. Rededicated February 11, 1995 by Grand Parlor, Native Sons of the Golden West, Fred Codoni, Grand President.
Erected 1921 by Native Sons of the Golden West. (Marker Number 173.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Disasters • Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the California Historical Landmarks series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1860.
Location. 40° 34.458′ N, 124° 15.771′ W. Marker is in Ferndale, California, in Humboldt County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Craig Street, on the right when traveling east. Located in Ferndale Cemetery. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 5680 Ocean Ave, Ferndale CA 95536, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Ferndale Cemetery (within shouting distance of this marker); Ferndale Memorial Day Parade (within shouting distance of this marker); A. Berding House (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Danish Hall (about 600 feet away); a different marker also named The Danish Hall (about 600 feet away); The Victorian Inn (about 700 feet away); Mildred Radanovich (about 700 feet away); Ferndale Masonic Hall (about 800 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ferndale.
More about this marker. Originally located at Centerville Beach County Park, the cross was moved to Ferndale Cemetery in 2024.
Regarding Centerville Beach Cross. In 1935 the cross was designated California Historical Landmark No. 173 - Centerville Beach Cross. “On January 6, 1860 the steamer Northerner, northward bound from San Francisco, struck a hidden rock two miles off Cape Mendocino, and from there drifted to the Centerville Beach. Thirty-three passengers and 32 crew members were saved - the cross was erected by the Ferndale Parlor No. 93, N.D.G.W., in memory of the 17 passengers and 21 crew members who lost their lives in this disaster.”
Credits. This page was last revised on February 29, 2024. It was originally submitted on January 23, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 66 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on January 23, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 5. submitted on February 29, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California.