After the 1848 discovery of gold in California, more than 100,000 sturdy Americans passed through St. Joseph on their way west in quest of wealth, opportunity and better lives. The "Gold Rush" began and those who followed the "Star of Empire" became part of one of the world's largest-known human migrations. Most of the pioneers came to St. Joseph, outfitted their wagon trains, and then ferried the swift-running waters to start their 2,000-mile journey to California.
This monument is a tribute to those who braved the perils of the unknown not only to search out gold, but also to establish farms, ranches, and businesses that would turn the western United States into an empire. We also honor those who ended their journeys here, putting down lasting family roots and establishing or working in trades that tranformed this "jumping-off point" into the "Queen of River Cities." These entrepreneurs sold supplies to the westward travelers, creating a business climate escalating St. Joseph's population from 800 to 8,000 in only a decade. They laid the groundwork for others who followed and firmly established this river town as a major player in America's "Inland Empire."
St. Joseph's contribution in the settlement of the west is unparalleled, and the story of the "Journey West" is one of the most dymamic in American history.
Dedicated June 18,2004
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