Endangered Historic Resources

Publicly Owned Endangered Historic Resources

The Grange Building/Ashby Academy

Built in 1820 as the Congregational Church and subsequently used as Ashby Academy, Watatic Hall, Town Offices, school gymnasium and Grange Hall. Problems: Exterior building deterioration, interior building deterioration, electrical and plumbing failure, drainage issues. Actions taken: 2015 building evaluation study.

2023 the Historical Commission is conducting a survey of the option for the future of the building. The survey will be followed by public meetings for residents to discuss the future of the building. Please take the survey and let us know what you think. The survey will run through early September

Old Burial Ground

Given to the Town in 1770 by Jonathan Lawrence. It is the resting place of many of the town’s early inhabitants. The earlier headstones are of slate and later ones of marble. Problems: Tilting and falling headstones, deterioration of marble headstones, moss and lichen on headstones. Actions taken: Removal of dying trees, Lyman tomb scheduled for restoration.

Trap Falls Brook Stone Arch Bridge

The 1860 Trap Falls Brook Stone Arch Bridge is a granite block bridge arching over the Trap fall Brook adjacent to Route 31/Greenville Road. Problems: Access limited by MassDOT, tree and shrub growth in structure. Actions taken: none.

Ashby Free Public Library

The original building was donated to the Town in 1902 by Edwin Chapman. A major addition was made to the back of the building in 2002. The building is in the neoclassical style with the exterior of brick and stone. Generally the building is in good condition. Problems: Mortar loss in the masonry and preservation of the windows. Storm windows are helping slow deterioration of the windows.

Ashby Town Clock

The Ashby town clock is generally in good condition with the exception of the clock faces. Restoration of the faces is planned for 2024.

Back To Top