Harrison Mayes Roadside Cross – Appalachia, Tennessee
A heart-shaped stone sign with the inscription “PREPARE TO MEET GOD” stands against a brick wall, surrounded by lush green plants. The rustic background and creeping ivy add a serene yet solemn atmosphere.
Harrison Mayes was a fascinating figure in 20th-century Americana, known for his unique roadside crosses and religious markers that dotted highways across the United States. Born in 1898 in Tennessee, Mayes was a coal miner who survived a near-fatal mining accident. This life-changing event inspired him to dedicate his life to spreading Christian messages in unconventional ways.
Mayes crafted large, concrete crosses and heart-shaped markers, inscribed with phrases like “Jesus Saves” and “Get Right with God.” He placed these markers along highways, roadsides, and even near railways, aiming to reach as many travelers as possible with his messages of faith. His crosses were often brightly painted and striking, ensuring they caught the attention of passersby.
What made Harrison Mayes truly unique was his foresight and dedication. He envisioned a world where his messages would endure, even going so far as to create markers intended for placement on other planets, should humans ever colonize space. His work reflected a combination of deep religious conviction and a remarkable sense of creativity.
Today, many of Mayes’ markers remain scattered across the country, serving as reminders of his mission and as intriguing examples of American folk art and roadside culture. Preservation efforts by historians and enthusiasts have helped keep his legacy alive, celebrating his unusual and heartfelt contributions to faith and roadside history.