A granite cross erected in 1935 by the National Society Daughters of the American Colonists, in memory of the wooden cross erected by the English colonists in 1607.
Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park
Part of Colonial National Historical Park · VA
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.
Park report
Current Alerts
How this is rated
Good: no active alerts or closuresNo active alerts
Entrance Fee
How this is rated
Good: free entryFree — no entrance fee
Activities Available
How this is rated
Good: many activities available2 activities
Park Name
InfoCape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park
Designation
InfoPart of Colonial National Historical Park
State(s)
InfoVA
Phone
Info7578982410
colo_info@nps.gov
Operating Hours
InfoCurrently, 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.
Campgrounds
InfoNo campgrounds listed
Weather Info
InfoSpring: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 80 F. Rain is common. Summer: Temperatures usually range from 80 F to 100 F. Rain and sun are equally common. On very sunny days, be prepared with plent
Getting There
InfoLocated on the south side of the Chesapeake Bay, Cape Henry Memorial sits within the Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. From Interstate 64 E take exit 282 to merge onto US-13N/Northhamp
Location
Info36.9278° N, -76.0088° W
Data from official federal recreation records. Updated periodically. Park conditions change — always verify with the park before visiting. Verify on official park website