Welcome to Riverfront Bridge Park in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, a serene spot along the mighty Mississippi River. While the park itself offers a tranquil escape, the area around it has a vibrant history tied to the growth and development of Cape Girardeau.
Cape Girardeau, often referred to simply as ‘Cape,’ was named after Jean Baptiste de Girardot, a French soldier who established a trading post in the area in 1733. This early establishment marked the beginning of Cape Girardeau’s role as a hub of trade and commerce along the Mississippi River. Not long after, the area witnessed the arrival of Louis Lorimier, who was granted land by the Spanish government in 1793. Lorimier’s trading post flourished, drawing settlers and traders eager to capitalize on the river’s resources.
One of the city’s notable historical events was the Battle of Cape Girardeau during the Civil War, which took place on April 26, 1863. Though a minor skirmish, it was part of the larger conflict that swept across the nation. The strategic location of Cape Girardeau on the Mississippi made it a significant point of interest during the war.
The development of the steamboat in the 19th century further propelled Cape Girardeau’s growth as a port city, facilitating trade and transport. This growth continued with the construction of a bridge over the Mississippi River in 1928, enhancing connectivity and commerce. The bridge was later replaced in 2003 by the Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge, named in honor of a local congressman.
As you enjoy the park, imagine the bustling activity that once took place along these riverbanks. From Native American tribes such as the Shawnee, who lived here until the early 19th century, to European settlers and traders, each left their mark on this historic landscape. Today, Riverfront Bridge Park stands as a peaceful reminder of Cape Girardeau’s dynamic past, inviting you to reflect on the stories that the Mississippi River has witnessed over the centuries.
