Visit Stonehenge replica along Columbia River

In Washington state, on a barren bluff overlooking the Columbia River and Oregon is a full-size replica Stonehenge, a near carbon copy of the more famous Stonehenge in England, at least as it was originally before it began to crumble. It’s officially open between 7 a.m. and dusk every day. Admission is free.

The Washington version, Stonehenge Memorial, was built by a man named Sam Hill as a memorial to Klickitat County soldiers who died in World War I. Hill passed away in 1930, soon after his masterpiece was completed. He is buried nearby.

Hill was also responsible for the construction of the Peace Arch in Blaine, Washington at the U.S./Canada border along I-5—recognizing the close ties between the two countries. It was dedicated in 1921.

Unlike the English Stonehenge which is mobbed daily with buses and wide eyed tourists, the Sam Hill replica is a lonely, quiet place. A short paved road off state route 14 leads to the monument and its huge parking lot, easily accessible by any length RV.

Sam Hill’s Mansion, part of the Maryhill Museum of Art, is just up the highway. The museum includes a collection of royal memorabilia from Queen Marie of Romania (1875-1938), a friend of Sam Hill’s who presided at the museum’s dedication ceremony in 1926. Included are the queen’s coronation gown, crown, silverware, gilt furniture, jewelry and other memorabilia.

The museum is open from March 15 to November 15 with a $23 adult admission.

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