Built in 1888 the First Parish Church in Weston stands proudly. Its Norman Gothic style is a testament to history. This isn’t just any church. It’s the fourth structure on this very spot. Imagine the generations who have worshipped here. For almost 300 years people have gathered. They sought solace and community.
First Parish in Weston’s story begins much earlier than 1888. In 1698 the first meetinghouse was built. A rough hewn structure it was. Farmers and their families traveled from Watertown. Ten miles was a long journey on foot or by horse. They needed a closer church. Their petition was granted. This small meetinghouse with a hard dirt floor and wooden benches became a center. It served as church and town hall.
The congregation grew. The meetinghouse became inadequate. In 1721 a larger colonial style meetinghouse replaced it. This building was updated in 1800 with a larger bell and a steeple. It was heated for the first time in 1815. Can you imagine the warmth after those long cold winters? It served the parish for 118 years.
By 1839 plans for a new church and town hall began. They needed separate buildings. The third church a Greek Revival structure arose. It served until 1888. Then a committee decided to build a magnificent stone church. Their budget was $10000. The final cost was $15000 including furnishings. Peabody and Stearns were the architects. Charles Eliot designed the landscaping.
The current church is a marvel of architecture. Its fieldstone exterior is complemented by ashlar cut limestone. The interior is exposed red brick. Stained glass windows by Louis Comfort Tiffany and Charles Jay Connick grace the walls. The bell tower houses an 1800 Revere bell. A parsonage and parish house were added later. Additions continued throughout the 20th century. The First Parish Church is more than a building. It’s a living testament to faith community and perseverance. It’s a place of peace and reflection. It’s a place to connect with history and the present. A true jewel of Weston.