Back in the late 1800s, this stunning Gothic Revival building started life as the first chapel for the Groton School, a private boarding school in Groton, MA, known for shaping some serious big shots, like FDR himself. Young Franklin attended services here, even writing to his parents about how much he loved the chapel’s vibe. Founded in 1884 by Endicott Peabody, the Groton School was (and still is) a place where the elite sent their kids to become future leaders. The chapel, built in 1887, was a centerpiece of the campus until 1898, when donors funded a new one (St. John’s Chapel, also designed by Vaughan).
Instead of tearing down this beauty, they rolled it—yep, on horse-drawn rollers—into downtown Groton, where it became the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in 1904. Fast forward to today, and owners Dan and Marilyn Schwartz have transformed this 8,000-square-foot former church into a jaw-dropping home that keeps its historic charm while adding modern flair.
The man behind this masterpiece, Henry Vaughan, was a rockstar of Gothic Revival architecture. Born in England in 1845, he trained under George Frederick Bodley, a leading figure in the Gothic Revival movement, before bringing his talents to the U.S. in 1881. Vaughan’s work is all about pointed arches, intricate stonework, and that medieval charm that makes you feel like you’re in a cathedral. He didn’t just design this Groton chapel; he also contributed to the Washington National Cathedral and St. John’s Chapel at Groton School, both considered some of the most beautiful neo-Gothic structures in America.
Walking into this home is like stepping into a movie set. The grand hall, once the church’s nave, greets you with soaring wood ceilings and vibrant stained-glass windows that catch the sunlight like nobody’s business. The Schwartzes kept the Gothic Revival details—think pointed arches and intricate woodwork—while adding modern upgrades like a new roof, central HVAC, and updated electrical and plumbing systems. The home’s 8,000 square feet include six bedrooms and four bathrooms, making it perfect for a big family or anyone who loves space to spread out. The primary bedroom, tucked into what was once the sacristy, has a half-barrel ceiling, a massive stained-glass window, and French doors that open to the outside.
This place is designed for multi-generational living, with three kitchens, each with quartz countertops, natural gas ranges, and enough space to whip up a feast. There are also three laundry areas, so you’re never fighting over the washer.
Above the four-car garage, there’s a 2,000-square-foot apartment—perfect for renting out, housing in-laws, or giving your college kid their own space. Plus, the lower level has another 2,000 square feet with its own kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and entrance.
At $3,895,000, this Groton gem is a steal for what you’re getting. It’s in downtown Groton, a charming town in northwestern Massachusetts near the New Hampshire border, with easy access to Boston (about an hour away). The listing, handled by Exit Assurance Realty, emphasizes the home’s versatility and historic significance.
Groton, MA, is the kind of place where you can grab a coffee at a local café, hike conservation trails, or paddle along the Nashua River, all while living in a town steeped in history. The home’s location at 279 Main Street puts you right in the heart of it all, on a corner lot that’s both private and central.
Reach out to Exit Assurance Realty to schedule a tour. Check out the listing on Redfin or Boston.com for more details and photos.
This former church isn’t just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle. With Henry Vaughan’s design, a nod from FDR, and modern upgrades, this Groton estate is the ultimate blend of past and present. For $3,895,000, you can own a piece of Groton’s history and live in a home that’ll make every day feel like an adventure.
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