Coronado Historical Park - Ford County, Kansas
N 37° 43.469 W 099° 54.718
14S E 419632 N 4175637
The Coronado Historical Park was designated an Officel Bicentennial Project by the National Bicentennial Committee.
Waymark Code: WM8ZXE
Location: Kansas, United States
Date Posted: 06/06/2010
Views: 6
The plaque reads:
"Coronado Historical Park.
The Coronado Historical Park Commemorates Coronado's journey in 1540-41 from Mexico into North America searching for gold. Following the safe crossing of th treacherous Arkansas River nearby, Coronado and his entourage celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving in this vicinity. The cross on the hill serves a Memorial of that first Christian service held west of the Mississippi River on June 29, 1541. In the early 1940's local Judge Karl Miller, with his interest in history, erected a marker on his ranch to indicate the path of the Coronado Expedition in Kansas. Judge Miller wanted a roadside park and cross. IN 1973 Karl Miller Jr, on behalf of the last Judge Karl Miller, Mrs. Miller Sr., and family donated this site to the Ford County Historical Society, Inc. In 1975 te State of Kansas and the National Bicentennial Committees accepted the Coronado Historical
Park as an Official Bicentennial project. On July 4, 1976, the Coronado Historical Park was officially dedicated at a service honoring the American Indian, Mexican, and Spanish heritages which contributed to the rich historical significance of the park. The names of the individuals, organizations and businesses which appear on this monument represent thos who contributed generously to the existence of the Coronado Historical Park."
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WAYMARK OWNER'S REMARKS:
The site has been allowed to return to a natural prairie-like state, with tall grasses and wildflowers. There is a covered picnic area that has seen better days, and a large parking lot, plus a paved path to the 38 foot tall Coronado Cross up on the hill a short distance away.
The simple monument has plaques on all four sides; one side discribes the park (narrative above) and the other 3 sides are lists of those who assisted in creating the park. The inscription is detailed above.
Supporting Web Documentation: [Web Link]
Address or General Location of Marker: Hwy 400, East of Fort Dodge
Parking: Not Listed
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