Sitting atop the bluffs overlooking the Columbia River is an almost castle-like structure overflowing with more than her share of treasures, the historic Maryhill Museum. The Museum is about one hundred miles east of Portland and stands proudly aside scenic Highway fourteen on the Washington State side of the river. It all started back in 1907 when wealthy entrepreneur, Samuel Hill bought six thousands acres with the intentions of starting an agricultural Quaker community. But those plans soon changed. The Museum’s Executive Director, Colleen Schafroth explains.

SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY THAT FARMING COMMUNITY WAS NOT AS SUCCESSFUL AS HE HOPED. IN THE MEANTIME HE BUILT HIMSELF A RANCH HOUSE WHICH IS THE CURRENT MUSEUM BUILDING TODAY.(Colleen Schafroth) In 1914, the construction began on the concrete mansion and Samuel Hill named his home and company after his daughter, Mary. And just how did a concrete ranch house become an art museum? HE MET A WONDERFUL AND ENGAGING WOMAN BY THE NAME OF LOIE FULLER WHO WAS A DANCER SORT OF AN AVANTE GARD DANCER VERY POPULAR PERSON IN HER DAY. AND SHE WAS THE ONE WHO SUGGESTED HE TURN HIS CONCRETE RANCHHOUSE INTO AN ART MUSEUM. (Colleen Schafroth

Just a short drive up the road lays a special tribute to the soldiers of Klickitat County who lost their lives in battle. Built by Sam Hill, Maryhill’s Stonehenge is the first monument in our country to honor the dead of the First World War. The full-scale replica of England’s famous structure is free to the public and serves as a peaceful reminder to honor those soldiers that have fallen. Nearly a century ago, Samuel Hill had a unique idea for this hilltop bluff overlooking the Columbia River. Today we can all be a part of that vision through generations of history and miles of scenic beauty.