Join us in celebrating 200 years of the Old West Church. The first posts were raised in 1823 and still today, community gathers under the steeple for music, memories, and spirit. To commemorate this special occasion, we invite you to ‘Music Under the Steeple’ a summer music series (see poster below). Step through the doors and you can feel and see the beauty and simplicity of the building. Be a part in honoring this milestone and learn about ways you can help.

The Christmas Eve service at the Old West Church began very informally in the early 1950s with just a few families led in song by June Morse (the OWC musical director) playing an old upright piano. When it was too cold they skipped the service! It has grown into a yearly event with people coming to experience a non-denominational service lit only by the gentle glow of candles and warmed by the heat of those packed together in the pews. Community members make wreaths and roping to adorn the inside and outside of the building. The service consists of readings from scripture by high school students and songs by the Calais Community Choir. It is a magical evening of the tradition and the warmth of the holiday season. Join us for the 2022 candlelight service - live and inside under the steeple - on December 24th, at 5:00pm.  (Masks are encouraged.  Please stay home if you have symptoms.)

The Old West Church connects families and communities, local and distant, to the past, present, and future.  Built in 1823, its listing on the National Register of Historic Places signifies a unique representation of our social and architectural history. Our mission is to preserve, conserve and administer the Old West Church meeting house and property. To encourage the use of the meetinghouse for worship and civic, cultural and family events in keeping with the traditions, and in the best interests of the Calais community. Board of Trustees Barbara McAndrew, PresidentSusannah Blachly, Vice PresidentMack Gardner-Morse, TreasurerSue Killoran, Recording SecretaryAnne Connor, Corresponding Secretary The Board of Trustees elected annually at the Old West Church Associations annual meeting held in early Fall. Notification will be posted. Interested parties in running for office should contact the Board President. Photo Credits: Curtis Johnson, Jennifer Marcuson, Vermont Historical Society, Jeb Wallace-Broduer