The Nelsonville Cross

The Nelsonville Cross stands tall over the valley of Nelsonville.   A treasured landmark in the community, it is both a salient feature in the forested skyline and a place from which one can enjoy the wonderful views of the Hocking Hills.

At one time, the Cross was one of the world’s largest, standing seventy-three and one-half feet tall.  It was re-erected after a windstorm at a lesser, though still impressive, height.

The Cross was dedicated on April 8, 1973 in honor of Elizabeth “Betty” Schwartz, a long-time member of the church.  Because Betty "so dearly loved Nelsonville and Rev. John Lloyd Evans and Mrs. Evans,” wrote her husband, Bud Schwartz, he deeded the “world renowned symbol” to the church.

The grassy park of the Cross is a place to gather, including for Easter sunrise services.  For years our church has partnered with another local congregation to worship and share in the celebration of the Resurrection of the Lord.