Cemeteries within the proposed watershed area of the new reservoir, especially those which would be submerged, posed problems for the Metropolitan Water Board.  St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Clinton and the Beaman Cemetery in West Boylston were two well documented cases where the bodies had all to be moved to new locations. One cemetery, not taken because of its elevation, remains in private hands.

St. Luke’s Catholic Cemetery

This forlorn little cemetery, hidden off Lancaster Street (Route 110) in West Boylston near the Sterling line, served the parishioners of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

Its surrounding acreage was taken by the Metropolitan Water Board for the Wachusett Reservoir but its elevation was well above high water, enough to prevent its disturbance.

Overtaken in 1902 by the events of the Wachusett Reservoir construction it remains in private ownership today, isolated and mostly in disuse today. Its maintenance was assumed by the Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in West Boylston.

It can be a good place for quiet reflection but its only access is via a private roadway.

Daytime visitation of the cemetery is allowed but it would always be best to notify Father Steven, Pastor of Our Lady of Good Counsel if you plan on visiting it.

Thanks,

Paul