Monday, Jun. 09, 2008

Bringing the Mystery Overseas

By Bethany Lee

If you're in the mood for some historical splendor, look no further than Goldendale, Washington.

That's right. Just a mere two hour drive away lies The Maryhill Stonehenge, the most accurate replica of Stonehenge in the United States.

Located approximately 117.22 miles northeast of the Tri-Cities, this monument is hard to see off Interstate 84, but is definitely worth seeking.

So who brought Stonehenge to the U.S.? Is it just as mysterious as the rock formation that lies in Europe? Not exactly. The history behind this structure, which is about 78-years-old, is more straight-forward.

The architect was road builder Sam Hill, a Quaker who bought the land in Klickitat County in the early 1900s. Hill commissioned the nation's first monument dedicated to fallen Klickitat veterans of World War I. Construction began in 1918, but was completed 12 years later in 1930, one year before Hill's death.

A plaque inside the memorial reads:

"In memory of the soldiers of Klickitat County who gave their lives in defense of their country. This monument is erected in the hope that others inspired by the example of their valor and their heroism may share in that love of liberty and burn with that fire of patriotism which death can alone quench."

The spectacular monument overlooks the Columbia River Gorge. Hill was laid to rest shortly following the completement of Stonehenge and buried at the base of the hill.

Differences between the original and this replica, is that Hill's rendition is made from solid concrete instead of actual large sandstones, and are sealed together, whereas the originals simply rest on top of or against each other.

Hill's mansion and other items from his life are now on display at the Maryhill Museum of Art. Other nearby monuments were later constructed to honor those who died in the Korean and Vietnam war.

Nearby is Maryhill Winery, which seems fitting for the peaceful scenery. About a hundred yards from the Stonehenge is a small gift shop where visitors can stop in for a bit and grab some snacks.

From inside the henge, visitors can gaze out to the Columbia River, with the structure framing different parts of the beautiful gorge. Sunny days bring out the color in the structure, while cloudy days bring out the mythical parts, reminding people that Stonehenge is still a world-class mystery for the most part.

Overall, the area is quiet and sometimes the only sound one hears is the wind blowing through the tall cement forms.

Visiting the monument is free, although The Maryhill Museum of Art is always taking donations to help with the upkeep.

For more information, contact:
Maryhill Museum of Art
35 Maryhill Museum Drive
Goldendale, Washington 98620
509-773-3733