DeSoto Trail - 1540
Hernando de Soto and his army after crossing to the west side of Flint River near Bainbridge, recrossed it on March 31, 1540, between the mouths of Jones and Gum creeks, and stopped at the town of the leshist chief. He was the first that came to them in peace after their departure from the Apalachee country and upon the mound of his village they erected a large wooden Cross, April 1, 1540. The Indians "received it and worshipped it devoutly to all appearance."
DE SOTO QUADRI-CENTENNIAL-1940
Plaque courtesy Lat34North.com.
Original page, with additional info, here.
Photo credit: Byron Hooks of Lat34North.com.