Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park • Virginia

Gray stone cross monument in front of a low stone wall at the end of a flagstone path

Patinaed statue of a military officer flanked by flagpoles and benches

Battle of Capes Wayside

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.

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.
NPS Photo

Located near overlook at Cape Henry
NPS Photo

At Overlook
Park Ranger Linda Williams

Admiral Comte deGrasse

It is only because of Admiral deGrasse, commander of the French fleet that the British were unable to relieve Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown

Cape Henry Memorial Cross

Cape Henry Memorial Cross

Granite cross erected in 1935 by the National Society Daughters of the American Colonists, in memory of the original wooden cross.

Cape Henry Lighthouses

Cape Henry Lighthouses

The Cape Henry lighthouse has long served to protect and guide vessels entering and leaving the Chesapeake Bay. Today two lighthouses stand

Last updated: May 1, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Colonial National Historical Park P.O. Box 210
Yorktown, VA 23690

Phone:

757 898-2410

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