The Old Stone Church

The Old Stone Church 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 townsfolk to let it remain. It stands alone on a point of land by the side of the water as a reminder of what was lost to the reservoir.

The Old Stone Church Site is open to the public, and can be visited at anytime. The church is often used for wedding photos. If you are  interested in taking wedding photos and your group is less than 25 people you are more than welcome to use the church and grounds for photos. Check with your photographer for this information.

Additional Information on DCR Rules.

The Church is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Concervation and Recreation.
The website Mass.gov regulation provides access to all of the regulations for the watershed system.

Below is the specific law concerning the 25 person limit.

It would read as: 350 CMR 11.09(2)(a)18
Appendix B: Watershed Regulations (350 CMR 11.09)


350 CMR 11.00: WATERSHED PROTECTION

11.09: General Rules and Regulations for the Protection of Watersheds and the Watershed System

(2) Watershed System.

(a) General Regulations.

18. Public assemblies of more than 25 persons shall not be allowed within the Watershed System without a written permit from the Commission or its designee.

The division no longer issues permits for weddings of more than 25 persons at the Old Stone Church.

For aditional information please contact the Rangers at Wachusett Reservoir Watershed D.C.R., Water Supply Protection 978-365-3800, ext. 23

Hours of operation

The Historical Society is open every Thursday from 9:30 AM to 12:00 noon.