High above Denver stands a majestic beacon. The Cross on Mount Lindo. It’s more than just a symbol. It’s a testament to love family and enduring faith.
This isn’t just any cross. It’s 393 feet tall and 254 feet wide. The largest lighted cross in the United States. Imagine Francis C Van Derbur’s vision. He wanted a lasting tribute to his love for his wife Pearl. She could see it from their home in Denver. A constant reminder of his presence even after his death.
The cross wasn’t built overnight. Francis S Van Derbur his son spearheaded the project. He fulfilled his father’s wish. The cross was erected in 1963. It was first lit on Easter morning 1964. Donald Frees a talented designer helped shape its iconic form. He also worked on many Olinger buildings. The Olinger family a prominent name in Denver’s mortuary history. They owned the land on Mount Lindo. The mountain itself has a rich history. Native Americans once used it as a lookout point.
The cross has undergone restoration. It continues to shine brightly over the Denver skyline. A beacon of hope and remembrance.
Years later people still marvel at The Cross. It serves as a navigational aid for those traveling from the eastern plains. A poignant reminder of love loss and faith. The inscription on a nearby marker reads Oh look there’s Denver. A simple yet profound statement.
More than just a landmark The Cross on Mount Lindo is a powerful story waiting to be discovered. A story about family love and a father’s wish fulfilled. A testament to enduring faith and the enduring strength of human emotion. A symbol visible for miles a reminder of the power of love that transcends time and space. The Cross stands tall a silent sentinel watching over Denver.