St. George in Washington County, Utah — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Jedediah Strong Smith
Photographed By Jeremy Snow, February 13, 2024
1. Jedediah Strong Smith Marker
In 1826 Jedediah Smith, searching for a route to California, entered what is now Washington County by crossing the black ridge north of here then following Ash Creek to the Virgin River. He followed the Virgin River through the Virgin River Narrows (present route of 1-15) overcoming many dangers associated with the steep, narrow, winding, rugged canyon. In 1827 he returned to California following the same route to the confluence of Santa Clara Creek and the Virgin River. Anxious to avoid a repetition of his experience in the Virgin River Narrows, he proceeded up Santa Clara Creek and turned southwest over the low mountain (present day Old Highway US 91) to a ravine which led him to the Beaver Dam Wash and its confluence with the Virgin River.
Erected by Sons of Utah Pioneers Cotton Mission Chapter. (Marker Number 176.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Exploration. In addition, it is included in the Sons of Utah Pioneers series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1826.
Location. 37° 4.456′ N, 113° 34.939′ W. Marker is in St. George, Utah, in Washington County. Marker can be reached from South Convention Center Drive. The marker is located in the Crosby Family Confluence Park. Touch for map
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 2 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Brigham Young's Vision (within shouting distance of this marker); The Southern Exploring Company (within shouting distance of this marker); Tonaquint (within shouting distance of this marker); The Confluence of the Santa Clara and Virgin Rivers (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Old Spanish Trail (about 300 feet away); Monument to the Flood of 2005 (about 400 feet away); Utah Is Rich in Aviation History (approx. one mile away); Virgin River Pump Station (approx. 1.7 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in St. George.
Photographed By Jeremy Snow, February 13, 2024
2. Jedediah Strong Smith Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on February 22, 2024. It was originally submitted on February 19, 2024, by Jeremy Snow of Cedar City, Utah. This page has been viewed 36 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 19, 2024, by Jeremy Snow of Cedar City, Utah. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.
