Phillipston Center Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Phillipston Center Historic District
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Congregational Meeting House
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Roughly along The Common, Baldwinville, Petersham and Templeton Rds., Phillipston, Massachusetts |
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| Area | 44 acres (18 ha) |
| Built | 1784 |
| Architectural style | Federal, Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 99001385 |
| Added to NRHP | November 22, 1999 |
The Phillipston Center Historic District is a special part of Phillipston, Massachusetts. It's like a time capsule that shows how the town grew! This area was first settled way back in 1751. Over time, it became the main village center.
Even though the town started early, not many buildings from the 1700s are still standing. This might be because of the American Revolutionary War, which made things difficult. Most of the older homes you see are simple, everyday houses. Phillipston didn't grow much until the 1830s. Because of this slow growth, many buildings in the district show off the Federal and Greek Revival styles. Later, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, more public buildings were added. In 1999, this important district was added to the National Register of Historic Places, which means it's recognized as a historically significant place.
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Discover Phillipston's Historic Center
The Phillipston Center Historic District is a great place to learn about the past. It covers about 44 acres and includes many buildings that tell the story of the town.
Exploring the Town Common
At the heart of the district is the town common. It's a large, grassy area shaped a bit like a trapezoid. You'll see lines of old, tall trees around its edges. There are no buildings right on the common itself. Instead, homes and public buildings line the roads that surround it.
Important Buildings to See
Two very important buildings stand at opposite ends of the common. These are the Congregational Church and the Town Hall.
The Old Church
On the north side of the common, you'll find the Congregational Church. It was first built in 1786. Later, in 1837, it was updated and given its Greek Revival look. This style often includes tall columns and a grand entrance, like ancient Greek temples.
The Town Hall
At the south end of the common is the Town Hall. This building was constructed in 1891. It features a Victorian Gothic style, which often includes pointed arches and decorative details. This is where local government decisions are made.
The Town Library
Just east of the church is the town library. This building has an interesting history! It used to be a district school. Built in the 1830s, it's easy to spot because of its unique front. It has four columns, giving it a strong Greek Revival "temple front" look, similar to the church's style.
