Layers
of
History
America's Stonehenge is a historic site and museum that preserves more than 4,000 years of human history, right here in Salem, New Hampshire. From the age of ancient construction to Pawtucket occupation, the colonial period, the Pattee era, and later archaeological research, many people and cultures have lived and worked on this site.
Today, you can visit America's Stonehenge to explore its historic structures, ancient landscape, and active archaeological sites. Your visitation allows the museum to continue its research and preservation efforts, recovering the lives of our ancestors and sharing their knowledge with the future.
Our Mission and Vision
Discover, preserve, and share America's ancient history
Education
Experience America's Past
The greatest way to learn about the is to experience it with all your senses. Unlike many ancient historic sites, visitors are encouraged to walk within the megalithic structures and explore the historic grounds to get a better understanding of this remarkable site. Tours, activities, presentations, and other programs will enhance your experience and promote a living connection to the past.
Preservation
Protect Cultural Resources
America's Stonehenge has been recognized as an important archaeological site for nearly 100 years, and open to the public since 1958. While sharing the valuable knowledge of this site in the present is important, it is also vital that it be preserved for future generations to research and enjoy. In another century, this site will continue to be a focal point of archaeological research and historical tourism.
Research
Recover Lost History
Research continues at America's Stonehenge both in the field and the archives. Less than 1% of this historic property has been fully excavated, meaning that there are many more discoveries to be made. The inclusion of new technology, modern archaeological methods, and informed documentary research allows museum staff to better understand the complex past of this site. America's Stonehenge also encourages independent research and strives to cooperate with scholars of all disciplines to uncover this region's history.
Stewardship
Conserve Ancient Landscapes
While the human history of America's Stonehenge is the driving force behind the museum, the natural history of this landscape must be acknowledged. This 100-acre property is home to many species of native wildlife and several important natural habitats. The museum manages a mixed landscape of forests, upland, meadows, wetlands, and gardens that promote biodiversity and a healthy environment. America's Stonehenge offers admission for low-impact outdoor recreation on the site, including hiking and snowshoeing.
The Stone Family
Stewards of America's Stonehenge since 1958
Robert Stone first learned about the mysterious ruins in Salem, New Hampshire on a radio broadcast in 1955. Later reading about the site in a magazine article, he set out to find the ruins and get involved with the research and preservation of this property. In 1958, Robert Stone opened the museum that we now know as America's Stonehenge with the help of his family and Malcolm Pearson, one of the site's early researchers. For several decades, multiple generations of the Stone family have been at the helm of the museum, leading research initiatives, and caring for the ancient landscape.
