Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial: A Monument of Remembrance and Wonder
Discover the awe-inspiring Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial, a WWI tribute and unique landmark on the Columbia River Gorge.
Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial: An Icon of Remembrance in the Pacific Northwest
On a wind-swept bluff overlooking the sweeping expanse of the Columbia River Gorge stands one of North America’s most surprising and moving landmarks: the Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial. This full-scale replica of England’s ancient Stonehenge was erected between 1918 and 1929 by businessman and philanthropist Samuel Hill, both as a dramatic tribute to World War I soldiers and as a monument to heroism and peace.
Overview
- Location: Near Goldendale, Washington, on State Route 14
- Setting: Bluff overlooking the Columbia River, dramatic views of Gorge and Mount Hood
- Admission: Free; open daily from 7am to dusk
- Accessibility: Easy road access, ample parking including for RVs and campers
The Vision Behind Maryhill Stonehenge
While the ancient Stonehenge stands as a testament to mysticism and age-old astronomy on England’s Salisbury Plain, the Maryhill replica is rooted in the tragedy and heroism of modern history. Samuel Hill, known for championing Pacific Northwest infrastructure and humanitarian causes, conceived this monument both as a warning against the folly of war and an homage to those who sacrificed their lives in World War I, especially from Klickitat County.
Who Was Samuel Hill?
- Pioneer in Transportation: Promoted paved roads and built the Historic Columbia River Highway
- Visionary Builder: Created Maryhill Museum of Art and the Stonehenge Memorial
- Pacifist & Philanthropist: Dedicated his work to peace and remembrance
Historical Significance
The site is recognized as the earliest World War I memorial in North America. Hill believed that the original English Stonehenge was a site of ancient human sacrifice. By recreating it, he sought to memorialize the sacrifice of war, making the monument both a place of reflection and warning.
- Construction began: 1918, post–World War I
- Completed: 1929, with guidance from leading experts to mirror the proportions and astronomical alignment of the original
- Dedicated: To Klickitat County WWI servicemen; individual plaques honor the fallen
- Peace Monument: Inscribed as a tribute to heroism, loss, and the pursuit of peace
Architecture & Design
This replica is built in concrete, faithfully matching the size, orientation, and general appearance of the English Stonehenge. The monument consists of complete outer and inner stone circles, featuring upright slabs and lintels that mimic the post and beam construction seen in prehistoric Britain. Its creation drew on archaeological, astronomical, and engineering expertise to achieve high accuracy.
| Feature | Maryhill Stonehenge | English Stonehenge |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Concrete | Sarsen & bluestone |
| Diameter | ~110 feet | ~108 feet |
| Alignment | Aligned to solstice | Aligned to solstice |
| Purpose | WWI Memorial | Ancient religious/astronomical site |
Visitor Experience
The Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial delivers profound historical resonance and stirring scenic beauty. Visitors often comment on the emotional gravity of the site, enhanced by the names and plaques of those memorialized. The location is striking—standing amidst wild grasses and basalt atop a cliff facing the Columbia River Gorge, with panoramic vistas of water, rock, and the distant peaks of Mount Hood.
- Interpretive Signs: Provide detailed explanations of history and symbolism
- Memorial Plaques: Affixed to stones, commemorating local servicemen lost in WWI
- Rock Cairns: Informal cairns constructed by visitors add to the sense of reverence
- Sunrise/Sunset: The monument is spectacular to visit at golden hour—sunrise or sunset offers dramatic lighting
- Accessibility: Flat paths, ample parking, suitable for families, RVs, and touring groups
Atmosphere and Setting
Despite its isolated location, the memorial’s blend of human achievement and natural spectacle leaves a lasting impression. Orchards, wineries, and wild grasses now surround the site, connecting the memorial to the thriving communities and natural bounty of the Columbia River Gorge region.
Getting There
The Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial is easily accessible by car and is well-signposted from main highways. Installed along one of the most scenic drives in the American Northwest, it is part of a broader cultural landscape that includes museums, wineries, parks, and trails.
- Directions from Portland, OR: Take I-84 east through the Columbia River Gorge (~2 hours), cross the river at The Dalles, then east on State Route 14 (~20 miles)
- From Seattle, WA: About 4 hours southeast by car
- From Hood River, OR: 45 minutes east
- Parking: Ample, free; suitable for RVs and campers
Nearby Landmarks and Attractions
- Maryhill Museum of Art: Historic chateau with diverse art collections and cultural exhibits
- Sam Hill Memorial Bridge: Visible from the site, links to The Dalles, OR
- Goldendale Observatory: Astronomy education and public viewing nights
- Wine Tasting: Jacob’s Creek Wines, Maryhill Winery, Cascade Cliffs Tasting Room
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking trails at Columbia Hills State Park and Horse Thief Lake State Park; waterfront activities in nearby parks
Local Impact & Community
Initially Sam Hill envisioned a utopian settlement in this remote region, but the land later blossomed into productive orchards and vineyards, making the monument a nucleus for both tourism and local pride. The designation of the Stonehenge Memorial on the National Register of Historic Places affirms its role as an awe-inspiring landmark, monument, and community touchstone.
Annual Events and Seasonal Tips
- Solstice Gatherings: The memorial’s astronomical alignment makes it a popular spot on summer and winter solstice
- Best Season to Visit: Spring to early autumn, when weather is mild and the area’s vineyards and parks are open
- Photography: Landscape, sunset, and event photography opportunities abound
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re passing through the Columbia River Gorge or planning a day-long excursion, the Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial is a worthwhile stop for history lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking contemplation.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 7am to dusk; free admission
- Family Friendly: Accessible for all ages; facilities for RVs and campers
- Facilities: No entrance fee, parking available, interpretive signs; some picnic areas nearby
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why was the Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial built?
A: It was conceived by Samuel Hill as a tribute to those from Klickitat County who lost their lives in World War I, and as a warning about the human cost of war.
Q: Is the memorial an exact replica of Stonehenge in England?
A: It is a full-scale replica, closely matching the original’s size, orientation, and design, though made from concrete rather than stone.
Q: How do I get there, and is there an entrance fee?
A: Located on State Route 14 in Washington, the site is open daily from 7am to dusk, and admission is free.
Q: What else can I do nearby?
A: Visit the Maryhill Museum of Art, tour local wineries, hike Columbia Hills State Park, and explore the Goldendale Observatory.
Q: Is the site accessible for RVs and campers?
A: Yes, there is ample parking, and the site is easily accessible for larger vehicles.
Tips for an Unforgettable Visit
- Check local weather: The bluff is often windy, so bring layers
- Arrive early or late: Sunrises and sunsets at the memorial are particularly dramatic
- Read interpretive signs: To better appreciate the memorial’s historical significance
- Visit nearby vineyards: For wine-tasting and scenic relaxation following your visit
- Combine with hiking: Take advantage of nearby trails in Columbia Hills and Horse Thief Lake State Parks
Conclusion: A Pacific Northwest Treasure
The Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial offers a rare blend of solemn history and natural grandeur. As both a monument to heroism and a lesson in the cost of war, it stands as a remarkable stop for any traveler in the Columbia River Gorge region. The community’s investment in maintaining and celebrating its history ensures that the echo of those remembered here never fades.
