The Old Stone Church

The Old Stone Church, probably West Boylston's best known landmark today, was built in the early 1890s to replace the Baptist church which had been lost in a fire. Hardly 10 years later, it had to be abandoned for the reservoir. Because it was built of stone and was clearly going to be a scenic attraction, the commonwealth was persuaded by The West Boylston Historical Society, The West Boylston Historical Commission, and Beaman Oak Garden Club to let it remain.

On April 13, 1973, the Old Stone Church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places . On June 27, 1974, the State awarded $87,000 for reinforcing the roof and walls of the church building. The following month, the church roof and three walls collapsed requiring rebuilding, instead of just reinforcing. The work was completed in the Spring of 1977. On September 25, 1983, on the occasion of the 175th Anniversary of the Incorporation of the Town of West Boylston, the Rededication of the Old Stone Church was held.

The First Baptist Church in the 1890's

St. Patrick's Church and the Old Stone Church as seen from the street before the reservoir

When the roof and side walls collapsed in 1974.

The interior of the Baptist Church

Notice from the DCR on use of the Old Stone Church: No official permits will be issued for weddings over 25 people. Groups of 25 or less can use the property during daylight hours. Registration is not required and it is open to the public at no cost. It is a shared space so other groups may use the space at the same time. Anything brought onto the space must be removed when leaving, such as flowers. The gates cannot be opened for access. The following items are not allowed - tents, canopies, open flames of any kind, alcoholic beverages, animals and motorized vehicles. No bodily contact with the water is permitted. For more information please contact the DCR at 508-792-780

The Old Stone Church, illuminated on Sept. 11

The Old Stone Church

The First Baptist Church in the 1890's

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