Memorial Cross

Part of Colonial National Historical Park · VA

Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park

English colonists first landed here in April 1607, erected a wooden cross and gave thanks for a successful crossing to a new land. In 1781, Americans could watch from these same sand dunes the largest naval battle of the Revolutionary War. Our French Allies defeated a British fleet just off this shore to set the stage for General George Washington's victory at Yorktown.

Operating hours

Cape Henry

Currently, Cape Henry Memorial is only open to those who have access to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek – Fort Story. You must be able to provide a military ID. This quarter acre of ground marks the approximate site of the first landing of the Jamestown settlers in Virginia.