RAZED -- Saint Catherine's Catholic Church in Washburn, built in 1900 by a group of people of the Mormon faith, has been razed. Construction on a new church, estimated to cost approximately $50,000, will begin shortly.
E. Flewelling and Sons, will start building within a week.
The old land mark was originally built in 1900 by group of people of the Mormon faith under the leadership of a Mr. Simpson, who at that time was a blacksmith here.
After they discontinued use of the church, the Washburn Pentecostal Assembly came to town in 1915 and held meetings in this church until they built their own church in 1917.
In 1922 the church was purchased by Dr. Harry D. McManus, and it was moved from Main Street, across the town to McManus Street, to be used for a Catholic Church and the McManus family worship.
At the time of purchase only a few people of Catholic, faith resided here. However in the past eight years, Catholic families moved into Washburn, thus increasing the church membership and attendance beyond its capacity.
In 1956 the edifice was enlarged. A belfrey and bell was added. New altar, pews and a heating system were installed.
Masses were given by priests from the Presque Isle parish on Saturday mornings, there being no resident priest. However, for sometime now, Masses are held Sunday mornings, through the same parish.
Until the completion of the new building. Masses will he held in the Matthew W. McManus garage. The pews from the old church having been set up for this temporary arrangement.
Permission to erect the new church was given by bishop Gerrity of Portland.
Members of the Building committee are Stanley Therriault, Vinal Wilcox, Donat Rossignol, Edmund Tardy, Richard Sperry. Camille Charette and Camille R Albert.
[August 1968]