The Historic Purchase of Stonehenge by Cecil Chubb in 1915

Name: The Historic Purchase of Stonehenge by Cecil Chubb in 1915
Start: 1876-09-21
Location: Unspecified

The Acquisition of Stonehenge

In 1915, a significant event in the history of Stonehenge occurred when a local solicitor named Cecil Chubb purchased the ancient stone circle for the sum of £6,600. This transaction marked a turning point for Stonehenge, shifting from private ownership to public interest.

Cecil Chubb, who was born in 1876, was not a historian or an archaeologist but had a deep appreciation for English heritage. He bought Stonehenge as a wedding gift for his wife—a gesture that might not have been the expected gift but nonetheless underscored the monument's cultural significance.

Cecil Chubb's Background

Cecil Chubb, born in Devizes, Wiltshire, was a man of many roles: he was a solicitor, an amateur archaeologist, and a prominent local figure. His decision to invest in Stonehenge reflected both personal intent and broader cultural values, particularly as the UK faced the challenges of World War I.

The Price of History

The purchase price of £6,600 in 1915 was considerable, reflecting the value that people placed on this iconic monument. Chubb's acquisition paved the way for official concern about the restoration and public access to Stonehenge, leading to its eventual transfer to the government.

The Legacy of Cecil Chubb and Stonehenge

After acquiring Stonehenge, Chubb would later gift it to the nation in 1918, ensuring that this important archaeological site would remain part of the English heritage.

The Impact of Chubb's Decision

Cecil Chubb's decision to buy and ultimately gift Stonehenge played a crucial role in its preservation. It initiated a wave of interest in the site's archaeological value and helped to establish it as a prominent tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors every year.

Stonehenge Today

Today, Stonehenge is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, appreciated for its historical, architectural, and cultural significance. The importance of the site continues to be celebrated, much in part due to Cecil Chubb's original purchase.

Fun Fact

Cecil Chubb's Interesting Connection

Interestingly, after purchasing Stonehenge, Cecil Chubb remarked that he never found a more significant monument closely tied to the English landscape, highlighting his deep appreciation for its history and mystery.