Sergeant Floyd Monument | Sioux City

The Sergeant Floyd Monument is a 100-foot obelisk located in Sioux City, Iowa, USA. It commemorates Sergeant Charles Floyd, the only fatality of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Visual Characteristics

The monument is constructed from concrete and is shaped as a tapering obelisk. It stands on a circular concrete base. The structure is a uniform light gray color.

Location & Access Logistics

The monument is situated at 1000-1098 Floyd Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51103, approximately 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) south of the Sioux City city center. Access is via Floyd Boulevard. A dedicated parking lot is available at the base of the monument. No public transport directly serves the monument site; nearest bus stops are located along Floyd Boulevard, requiring a walk of approximately 0.8 kilometers (0.5 miles).

Historical & Ecological Origin

The monument was erected in 1901. It was designed by architect Walter L. Scopes and built by the Sioux City Park Board. Its purpose is to mark the burial site of Sergeant Charles Floyd, who died on August 20, 1804, and was the first U.S. soldier to die west of the Mississippi River.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the monument's structure and read the commemorative plaque. The site offers panoramic views of the Missouri River valley. Walking paths surround the monument.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the base of the monument. Shade is limited to the immediate vicinity of the monument's base. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are present at the monument site; nearest options are located along Floyd Boulevard.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, late afternoon provides favorable lighting conditions due to the sun's angle. The months of May through October offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor visits.

Facts & Legends

A unique historical detail is that the original burial site was marked by a cedar post, which was later replaced by a wooden cross, and eventually by the current stone monument. The exact location of Sergeant Floyd's original burial was confirmed by archaeological investigation.

Nearby Landmarks

• Sergeant Floyd River Museum and Welcome Center (0.8km North)
• Chris Larsen Park (1.2km North)
• Bridges of Siouxland (2.5km Northwest)
• Grandview Park (3.0km North)