Maryhill is a tiny little town that’s home to fewer than 100 people. Located right on the Washington/Oregon border, this tiny but mighty town is home to one of the most unique attractions in the entire state. It’s not every day that you stumble across a full-scale replica of England’s Stonehenge in Washington, but that’s exactly what you’ll find in this scenic corner of the state.
The history behind Maryhill’s Stonehenge may surprise you.
Matthew Crino/Google First of all, it was built by Sam Hill and this full-size replica was actually erected as the first WWI memorial in the country.
It was dedicated in 1918 to the servicemen of Klickitat County who died serving their country during World War I.
Dawn Sebastian/Google It was completed in 1929, re-dedicated, and on display for all to enjoy.
America’s Stonehenge is remarkably similar to England’s.
Alusivekarma FPV/Google Hill had originally intended to use rock but had to switch to reinforced concrete. The rough texture was created by lining the wooden molds with crumpled tin, which makes it look like it’s been there for centuries.
The altar stone was even placed strategically to align with the summer solstice sunrise, modeled after the original.
Mahan Kaur/Google As luck would have it, there was a total solar eclipse in 1918, and many of the best astronomers in the country were in the area. After consulting with them, the altar stone was moved to align with the astronomical horizon rather than the midsummer sunrise, resulting in a three-degree difference between the replica and the original.
Visitors can walk in and around the Stonehenge Memorial, free of charge.
Vlad M./Google
While you may not be able to use this Stonehenge as an astronomical calendar, it’s a phenomenal spot to do some stargazing.
Annielyn Pe/Google Bring your camera and tripod and shoot for the stars!
The views of the Columbia Gorge are one in a million.
Lisa Chan/Google Day or night, the Stonehenge Memorial’s views will leave you speechless.
Nearby, you’ll find the Maryhill Museum of Art.
Maryhill Museum of Art/Facebook Nestled along a beautiful 5,300-acre site, the museum features a wide range of exhibitions, plus a cafe where you can enjoy coffee and/or lunch alongside stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Visit the Maryhill Museum of Art’s website to learn more and start planning your epic road trip today. Speaking of road trips, here are some of our favorite road trips in Washington that will lead you to some of the most picturesque parts of the state.
Matthew Crino/Google
First of all, it was built by Sam Hill and this full-size replica was actually erected as the first WWI memorial in the country.
Dawn Sebastian/Google
It was completed in 1929, re-dedicated, and on display for all to enjoy.
Alusivekarma FPV/Google
Hill had originally intended to use rock but had to switch to reinforced concrete. The rough texture was created by lining the wooden molds with crumpled tin, which makes it look like it’s been there for centuries.
Mahan Kaur/Google
As luck would have it, there was a total solar eclipse in 1918, and many of the best astronomers in the country were in the area. After consulting with them, the altar stone was moved to align with the astronomical horizon rather than the midsummer sunrise, resulting in a three-degree difference between the replica and the original.
Vlad M./Google
Annielyn Pe/Google
Bring your camera and tripod and shoot for the stars!
Lisa Chan/Google
Day or night, the Stonehenge Memorial’s views will leave you speechless.
Maryhill Museum of Art/Facebook
Nestled along a beautiful 5,300-acre site, the museum features a wide range of exhibitions, plus a cafe where you can enjoy coffee and/or lunch alongside stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge.
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Address: Stonehenge Drive, Stonehenge Dr, Maryhill, WA 98620, USA
