RetiredGySgt
Diamond Member
thats near Goldendale Washington my Moms home town.On a related note .....
The life-size replica of Stonehenge in Washington state
There’s a rather quirky, unexpected roadside attraction on the outskirts of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area: a life-size replica of Stonehenge in Washington state.
Overlooking the mighty Columbia River and surrounded by arid hills and vineyards, the monument was the first one built in the USA to pay tribute to military personnel who gave their lives in World War I. In 1995, the Klickitat County Veterans Memorial was erected near the site to honor those from the area who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country, and each year a ceremony is held.
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The history of Stonehenge in Washington state
So why is there a replica of England’s famous attraction near Wishram, Washington? It’s all thanks to Samuel Hill, a Quaker who’s known for establishing the neighbouring Maryhill townsite which had a post office, hotel, general store and eventually the Maryhill Museum and winery.
Hill visited the real Stonehenge during WWI, and was inspired to duplicate the Neolithic structure back home as a sign of peace and heroism. He tapped the knowledge of engineers and archaeologists to construct it, using reinforced concrete when local stones didn’t work as planned.
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Hill commissioned an astronomy professor to align the position of the stone to the astronomical horizon, instead of the midsummer sunrise which is a three degree difference from the original structure. That subtle difference makes the Washington version challenging to use as an astronomical calendar.
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Visiting the Maryhill Stonehenge WA
Since the Stonehenge replica is dramatically perched on the edge of a cliffside, it’s easy to spot along Highway 14 which has sweeping views of the Gorge, the Sam Hill Memorial Bridge and Mt Hood in the distance. The site is open every day from 7 a.m. to dusk, and parking and admission is free.
(View from site overlooking the Columbia River gorge)
Tour the towering rock formation, where plaques of the fallen soldiers are affixed to the stones. There are interpretive signs, as well as also a collection of rock cairns that visitors have erected in the middle of the site.
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The life-size replica of Stonehenge in Washington state
There’s an unexpected roadside attraction on the outskirts of the Columbia River Gorge: a life-size replica of Stonehenge in Washington state.thegorgeguide.com