As I was leaving Mass MoCA, I found myself driving toward this church. I was stunned to see the structure of heavy timbers tapering from wide to narrow. I immediately realized that it was the framework of this church steeple. I parked my car, and rushed over to spend some time photographing the church and the ruins of the steeple. Turns out that this church, St. Francis of Assisi, was built in 1863, and eight years ago was abandoned as the Catholic Diocese consolidated churches. I have seen references to North Adams, Mass, as the city of steeples. Interesting that the three steeples in the distance, in the lower photograph, are all tall and slim, as was this steeple before demolition. It just seems so sad that such a beautiful structure and steeple will no longer exist. In many communities unused churches around the country have been repurposed. That was the hope here, but there was never a critical mass to save the building before falling masonry that landed on sidewalks and streets, requiring the immediate removal of the steeple.
3 comments:
What a shame. Even without the steeple, seems like they could have re-purposed the building with a little imagination. I don't like to see buildings destroyed, especially ones with tall ceilings and expansive interiors. We are such a shameful throwaway society.
I agree with anonymous above. So sad. The old buildings were built so much better than the construction today, it would be wonderful to see it preserved.
Joan
It is so sad that the church was just abandoned. It could be re-used for so many things - a place for the homeless, a food bank...anything but an empty building. A shame to let those beautiful windows let in light for people to appreciate. bsk
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