In the rolling hills of Virginia, a curious monument rises, not of ancient stone, but of carved Styrofoam blocks: Foamhenge. What began as a quirky April Fool’s stunt in 2004 became one of the most beloved roadside oddities in the state.
The man behind the magic was Mark Cline, a local artist and special effects sculptor known for his eccentric creations. Hoping to attract more visitors to the Natural Bridge area, Cline built a full-size replica of England’s Stonehenge using lightweight foam slabs. But this wasn’t just a joke; Foamhenge was carefully designed with astronomical precision. Cline consulted a psychic and even a British Stonehenge guide to align the “stones” with the summer solstice.
“It’s foam, but it still feels oddly sacred.”
One visitor mused.
Over the years, Foamhenge weathered storms and gained fans across the country. In 2016, it was dismantled and put into storage until Cox Farms, a family-run attraction in Northern Virginia, offered to give it a permanent new home. With help from astronomer Harold Geller, the structure was realigned and reassembled in 2017, continuing its mission of delighting curious travelers.
Today, Foamhenge stands not just as a parody but as a celebration of imagination, whimsy, and celestial wonder. It reminds us that even the most playful ideas can leave a lasting mark, especially when built on a foundation of heart and humor.
Are you ready to see the strangest Stonehenge this side of the Atlantic?