There Is A Man-Made Wonder Towering Over A Small Town In Pennsylvania
By Beth Price-Williams|Published November 30, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Driving through the mountains and farmland of Pennsylvania always promises beautiful views – from grazing cows to meandering rivers. Sometimes we even run across a sight that we might not expect. If you’re driving through Hopwood, you might notice a towering cross, sitting atop a hill, that seems to grow larger and larger the closer you get. If you’ve not been to this man-made wonder in Hopwood, Pennsylvania yet, you’re in for a huge surprise and some of the best views in the state.
Perched atop Dunbar's Cross, the Jumonville Cross has towered above the small town of Hopwood since 1950, drawing visitors from around the world.
Officially the Great Cross of Christ, the cross is often referred to as the Jumonville Cross. Even if you're not religious, you'll quickly realize this unique man-made wonder is bucket list-worthy.
Nestled on the grounds of the Jumonville Camp & Retreat Center, the cross stands 60 feet tall and, until May 2023, held the distinction of being the tallest cross in Pennsylvania.
However, that record was shattered when the Hilltop Baptist Church in Indiana unveiled its 100-foot cross. The Jumonville Cross still promises a one-of-a-kind experience.
Its stats are impressive. Standing 60 feet tall and 2,480 feet above sea level, the cross was funded by donations from Methodist Churches from around the United States.
The initiative to build the cross began before World War II. However, the war stalled those efforts, and the cross wasn't completed until 1950.
Since 1950 it has drawn visitors from Pennsylvania and beyond. Although it is on private property, visitors can follow a trail up the hill for a closer look.
The trail is quite steep, so be prepared for a challenge. For permission to drive to the top of Dunbar's Knob, contact the Jumonville Camp & Retreat Center.
Have you been to this man-made wonder in Hopwood, Pennsylvania? What did you think of the cross? The views? Let us know in the comments! While you’re in the area, consider exploring Laurel Caverns, the deepest cave in Pennsylvania.
If you’re lucky and visit the Jumonville Cross on a clear day, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views. Don’t forget to bring a camera along.
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