In 1915, Cecil Chubb, a British barrister, attended an auction in Salisbury, England, and made an impulsive purchase of Stonehenge for £6,600. The story goes that he bought the ancient monument as a gift for his wife, Mary Chubb, who had reportedly asked for something far more modest—a set of curtains. Mary was said to be less than thrilled with the extravagant gesture, as the price was steep and the gift rather unconventional. However, Cecil's decision may have been motivated by a desire to keep Stonehenge in local hands, as there were concerns that a wealthy foreign buyer might dismantle and relocate the iconic site.
Three years later, in 1918, Cecil Chubb donated Stonehenge to the British government, ensuring its preservation as a public heritage site. He stipulated that locals should be able to visit for free, and others for a nominal fee. In recognition of his generosity, he was knighted and given the title "Sir Cecil Chubb, First Baronet of Stonehenge." Today, Stonehenge remains one of England's most treasured landmarks, and the story of its whimsical purchase adds a charming layer to its rich history.
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