Washington Has a Perfect Stonehenge Copy That’s Both a War Memorial & Astronomical Calendar

Maryhill Stonehenge, Washington

Maryhill Stonehenge is a full-size concrete copy of England’s famous Stonehenge, located near Goldendale, Washington.

Unlike the old, mysterious original, Washington’s version was built in the early 1900s as America’s first memorial for soldiers who died in World War I. It specifically honors the servicemen from Klickitat County who lost their lives in the Great War.

Sam Hill Built This War Memorial

Sam Hill, a wealthy businessman, road builder, and Quaker pacifist, created the Maryhill Stonehenge. Hill was an interesting character who built several landmarks in the area and was so odd that his actions reportedly inspired the saying “What in Sam Hill?”

He wanted to do more than just build a memorial—he tried to start a Quaker community in the area, though that dream never really worked out.

The Monument Is a Statement

His Stonehenge was meant to be both a memorial to fallen soldiers and a statement against the “incredible folly” of war. Hill thought (mistakenly) that the original Stonehenge was used for human sacrifice, and saw a connection between ancient sacrifices and young men dying in modern war.

Astronomers Helped Build The Monument

Building the monument took some serious star knowledge. On June 8, 1918, people could see a total solar eclipse from the Goldendale area, bringing top astronomers to Klickitat County. Professor Campbell from California’s Lick Observatory helped place the altar stone, lining it up with the astronomical horizon instead of the midsummer sunrise.

The Monument Took 11 Years To Complete

Though first dedicated on July 4, 1918, as America’s first WWI memorial, Maryhill Stonehenge wasn’t actually finished until 1929.

A second ceremony happened on May 30, 1929 (Memorial Day), when 14 local servicemen had their names placed on the pillars. Sam Hill lived just long enough to see his project completed, dying in 1931. His grave is located just southwest of the monument.

The Memorial Also Honors Modern Veterans

The site has grown beyond just the stone circles. In 1995, the Klickitat County Veterans Memorial was added nearby to honor those who died serving since World War I. The memorial shows plaques of fallen soldiers on the stones, and many visitors make small rock piles in the middle as their own tribute.

Sip Some Wine After Visiting the Monument

You’ll find over 22 wineries and tasting rooms, many just a short drive from the monument. Maryhill Winery, less than a mile west on Highway 14, has a big tasting room with great views and an outdoor space for concerts.

Other nearby wineries include Cascade Cliffs, Jacob Williams, and Waving Tree Vineyards. You can spend a day trying local wines while enjoying river views.

Maryhill Museum Of Art Is Also Nearby

Just three miles west of Stonehenge is the Maryhill Museum of Art, another Sam Hill creation.

When it opened in 1940, Time Magazine called it “the world’s most isolated art museum,” though now thousands visit each year.

The museum has an impressive collection with more than 80 works by Auguste Rodin, Native American art, and European pieces. Its 5,000-acre grounds include sculpture gardens and lookouts that make a nice addition to your Stonehenge visit.

Hiking Trails Surround The Monument

You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities near Maryhill Stonehenge. Maryhill State Park, just a mile away, has camping and 4,700 feet of shoreline along the Columbia River.

If you like hiking, check out the trails at Columbia Hills State Park and Lyle Cherry Orchard. Brooks Memorial State Park, about 20 minutes away, offers hiking through pine and oak forests with wildflower meadows in season.

Visiting Maryhill Stonehenge

Maryhill Stonehenge is open daily from 7 a.m. to dusk. Admission is free, but donations help with upkeep.

You can easily reach it from Highway 14 along the Columbia River, and parking is free. From Portland or Hood River, take I-84 east to The Dalles, cross the river, and continue on Highway 14. From Seattle, it’s about a 4-hour drive.