OLD STONE CHURCH
West Boylston, MA
OLD STONE CHURCH
A BRIEF SUMMARY OF OLD STONE CHURCH
The Old Stone Church was built in the early 1890s to replace the Baptist church that had been lost in a fire. Hardly 10 years later, it had to be abandoned for the Wachusett Reservoir. Because it was built of stone and was clearly going to be a scenic attraction, the townsfolk persuaded the commonwealth to let it remain. It stands alone on the point of land by the side of the water as a reminder of what was lost to the reservoir. The site is a landscape photographer's dream as it can be shot in any season, at sunset or sunrise and in between, with fog or snow providing a great atmosphere.
It is framed by spectacular foliage during the fall, and the reservoir in front often smooths out to create mirror reflections. Most of the year, an American flag hangs on the side, but it is decorated with a giant wreath in December.
Photos and location summary by David Long. David is a landscape and travel photographer based in New England and provides both workshops and a series of self-guided e-books to help find the best locations to shoot in the Northeast US. David’s portfolio along with information on his workshops and self-guided e-books can be found at davelongphoto.com.
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For the most popular shot, it is a short walk from the parking area along the causeway across the reservoir. You can bushwack along the water to gain some different angles or walk about 10 minutes to the entrance of the church (which is simply a shell with nothing inside).
Fall is the best time to photograph this wonderful location due to the amazing collection of fall colors that appear in late September through mid-October (depending on how fast the colors change). You can check the local fall color websites, but I have had the best luck October 5 - 15. Summer is excellent as the sun sets right down the reservoir. Winter is also exceptional, especially with snow on the ground and roof of the church. A Christmas wreath replaces the flag in December.
First thing in the morning is always good. Before sunrise provides an even light; after sunrise, the brick and flag can get easily overexposed as they face the sun, but the shot can be dramatic depending on the sky.
Equipment Needed:
• Longer lens, preferably over 70mm up to 250mm for close up.
• Wide angle if more of the sky and reservoir are brought in.
• Bring your whole bag for this location as it is an easy hike and
parking is very close.
Sea Level Ft. Elevation
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Detailed Directions
Best Time of Day to Shoot
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LOCATION SUMMARIES WRITTEN BY PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS
