The village was first mentioned in 1844 as Havelterberg, and means "hill belonging to Havelte.

It used to be the site of frequent anti-nuclear demonstrations, because tactical nuclear weapons were suspected to be present at the base.

It spans nearly 18 metres (59 ft), and contains 9 capstones and 21 side stones.

In 1945, the German authorities wanted to remove the stones, because it was a clear marker for enemy aircraft.

Van Giffen persuaded the Germans to bury the stones, and there were placed back in their original position in 1949.