Located in Goldendale, the Maryhill Museum of Art first opened in 1940. Back then, Time Magazine called it “the world’s most isolated art museum.” Today it is a popular stop in southern Washington for thousands of travelers each year.With over 5,000 acres of property, the museum has ample room for several contrasting exhibits, both permanent and seasonal.
When visiting the property, guests can take a walk through the William and Catherine Dickson Sculpture Park, or to the Lewis and Clark Overlook, which is an official site on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.
Stonehenge Replica
Enjoy the native plant garden or take a gander at Sam Hill’s (the original founder) full-sized replica of Stonehenge. Dedicated in 1918, and finished 11 years later in 1929, it is a representation of those who died in the World War I. “The dedication plaque 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.”
How The Museum Began
Originally intended to be Sam Hill’s mansion back in 1907, it was then turned into the present-day museum with his own art collection. Today visitors can check out one of the ten permanent indoor collections. For example, there is a Native American Gallery, and a portion of Queen Marie of Romania’s personal collection dating back to the 1800’s that she donated on a visit to the museum.
Visiting With Children
If you’re planning to visit with small children, the museum offers different activities for each member of the family. Preschoolers can enjoy story times, run around on the expansive grounds, or visit the hands-on exploratory room. Each month they offer different programs, so make sure to check out their website in advance!
Regular hours are normally from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from March 15 – November 15.
The Maryhill Museum can be made into a complete day trip, beginning with a nice stroll on the property, continuing inside to the exhibits and ending with a trip to their Loie’s: The Museum Café. Once finished at the museum, one may visit one of the surrounding wineries, or hiking trails.
Photos by: The Maryhill Museum of Art
5