Father Padilla's Cross is west of Lyons on US 56 in western Rice County. The cross is fairly large and hard to miss. There is a small roadside park on the south side of the highway. Father Padilla came to America on an exploration visit with Coronado. He decided to stay and try to serve the Native American population. His religous beliefs must not have been too favorable for the Native Americans as they sent him to an early grave. Still, he died serving the cause he believed in.
While in the area, be sure to visit Buffalo Bill's Well a mile south.
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