You’ll find Foamhenge in Centreville, Virginia, a fanciful styrofoam recreation of Stonehenge that was originally a 2004 April Fools’ prank by artist Mark Cline. Built from painted styrofoam blocks, it’s cleverly aligned like its ancient namesake. Despite its humor, it’s a functional solar calendar. Maintenance is tricky due to the fragile material. Visitors enjoy free entry on select days, making it an enjoyable and affordable adventure. Uncover more surprising details just ahead.
The Origin Story of Foamhenge
Although it began as an April Fools’ joke, Foamhenge quickly captured the imagination of many. You can thank artist Mark Cline for this fanciful creation, as he built it in April 2004 in Natural Bridge, Virginia.
Inspired by large styrofoam blocks, Cline envisioned a tourist attraction that humorously echoes the grandeur of ancient structures. Foamhenge is a playful replica of Stonehenge, originally built to mimic the iconic monument. Each foam “stone” mirrors the original’s shape, and a Stonehenge tour guide verified its design for accuracy.
Unlike the mysterious construction of Stonehenge, Cline’s modern homage took only ten days to complete. Foamhenge reflects his vision of blending humor and art to draw visitors and ignite curiosity.
Construction and Design Features
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Building on the fanciful origin of Foamhenge, the construction and design features are a demonstration of Mark Cline’s dedication to precision.
You’ll notice how Mark carefully crafted this replica, bringing it to life in just six weeks with a budget of $10,000. This wasn’t just any construction; it was a labor of love, ensuring each foam pillar mirrored the original structure’s grandeur.
- Materials: Large blocks of white Styrofoam were shaped and painted to resemble ancient stones.
- Size and Weight: Each pillar stands 14 feet tall and weighs around 400 pounds.
- Stability: Cement and a 2.5-inch diameter pipe anchor each block securely.
- Relocation: Moved to Cox Farms in 2017 and reinstalled with careful astronomical alignment.
- Consultation: A local psychic detective was involved for celestial accuracy.
Astronomical Alignment and Functionality
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When you visit Foamhenge, you’ll see how its precise astronomical alignment mimics that of the original Stonehenge.
Designed as a solar calendar, Foamhenge allows you to observe celestial events just like ancient civilizations did. Professor Harold Geller guaranteed that its positioning accurately marks key dates such as the summer solstice. This means Foamhenge aligns with the sunrise during this time, demonstrating its functional link to the stars.
Ancient cultures used structures like Stonehenge for agricultural purposes, observing the night sky to guide their planting cycles. Foamhenge honors this tradition, offering you a modern homage to these historical practices. A fascinating parallel can be drawn to Fort Jefferson’s location, which also has historical significance, albeit in the context of military and architectural history.
Material and Maintenance Challenges
Constructed from Styrofoam, Foamhenge presents unique material and maintenance challenges that distinguish it from its ancient counterpart. Unlike Stonehenge’s enduring stone, Styrofoam is easily shaped but vulnerable to environmental damage.
Maintenance is essential, as traditional spray paints deteriorate the foam. Instead, 35 gallons of paint are used annually for touch-ups. Here are some challenges and considerations:
- Lightweight blocks: Each weighing around 400 pounds, they’re easier to handle than Stonehenge’s 25-ton stones.
- Weather impact: Hailstorms can damage Foamhenge, requiring ongoing repairs.
- Preservation concerns: Foam’s non-biodegradable nature poses environmental challenges.
- Artistic oversight: Alicia Smith, the art director, manages these maintenance efforts.
- Long-term impact: The foam can take centuries to decompose, raising environmental concerns.
Visitor Information and Accessibility
While Foamhenge faces unique material challenges, its accessibility offers a welcoming experience for visitors.
Located at 15621 Braddock Rd, Centreville, VA, you can easily reach Foamhenge via I-66 exit 52. This quirky attraction is part of Cox Farms, making it perfect for a family outing.
Visitor information indicates that Foamhenge operates on free admission Saturdays from mid-April to late August, with daily admission from mid-September through October. You can visit on Saturdays from 12 PM to 2 PM during the summer and daily in the fall.
For specific hours and admission fees, contact Cox Farms at 703-830-4121. With its accessible location and cost-effective admission, Foamhenge provides a unique and enjoyable experience for all.
Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest
Situated within Centreville, Virginia, Foamhenge offers more than just its fanciful foam structures; it rests amidst a variety of intriguing attractions.
As you investigate this quirky site, you’ll find that Centreville and its surroundings boast an eclectic mix of experiences. Here are some nearby attractions to improve your visit:
- Cox Farms: Besides Foamhenge, uncover a giant praying mantis and navigate The Cornundrum maze.
- Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: Just 3 miles away in Chantilly, immerse yourself in aerospace history with the Space Shuttle Discovery.
- National Firearms Museum: Located 8 miles away in Fairfax, examine firearms history and technology.
- Big Horse Head Outside Apartment Building: Only 7 miles away, this unique roadside attraction adds charm.
- Photo-Op Grave of Matthew Brady: Journey 27 miles to Washington, DC, for this unique historical site.
One similarity Foamhenge shares with other attractions is its unique aesthetic appeal, drawing visitors interested in its quirky and captivating atmosphere.
The Legacy and Cultural Impact of Foamhenge
Foamhenge isn’t just surrounded by fascinating attractions; it itself is a remarkable cultural landmark that leaves a lasting impression. Created by artist Mark Cline, Foamhenge captures the playful nature of art with its creative design, serving as both a modern homage to Stonehenge and a quirky cultural icon in Virginia.
Its cultural significance extends beyond its visual appeal, hosting the annual Renaissance festival, The Enchantment Faire, which enriches community engagement. Alicia Smith guarantees its lively legacy by maintaining its artistic integrity with regular paint touch-ups.
With foam’s surprising durability, there’s a humorous legacy question about if it could outlast the original Stonehenge. Foamhenge’s blend of humor, art, and cultural impact continues to captivate and entertain visitors.