Estab: 1949 Moved/Renovated: since 1995
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The changes in population caused by one reason and another saw people of religious belief differing from those already established in town. Foremost among these were those firm in the faith of Catholicism, this class increasing in numbers until it was necessary to have a house of worship. The first Mass was celebrated in Hillsborough by the Rev. E. E. Buckle, in 1881. This mission was subsequently visited by pastors of Peterborough and East Jaffrey, until the settlement of the first resident priest, the Rev. David W. Fitzgerald, in 1889. Directly after assuming pastoral charge Father Fitzgerald secured a plot of land on Church Street the site of a proposed new church building. Work was begun upon the structure within a short time, Messrs. Jackman Brothers being engaged as builders. The house is of modern designs; has Gothic windows; is 75 feet by 32 feet in dimension ; 32 feet in height, with a tower of 75 feet, surmounted by a gilded cross. It can seat 350 persons. Messrs. Chickering and O'Cornell were the architects. Named Saint Mary's Church in honor of Mrs. Mary A. Pierce, wife of Hon. Kirk D. Pierce, the new house of worship was dedicated by Bishop Bradley October 29, 1893. A rectory was built the following year. In 1901 Father Fitzgerald was succeeded by the Rev. Joseph Corcoran, who was followed in 1905 by the Rev. Thomas N. Coakley. The Rev. J. G. Leclerc succeeded Father Coakley in 1910 as pastor of St. Mary's. Father Leclerc was instrumental in the purchase of two lots of land for cemeteries, St. Mary's Cemetery, Hillsborough, and Mount Calvary Cemetery, Bennington, both of which were blessed by Bishop Guertin in June, 1918. The Rev. James H. Queenan became pastor of St. Mary's in August, 1917, but he was called into higher service a little over a year later. He died in November, 19 18. The present pastor is the Rev. Charles J. Leddy. Father Leddy was born in Epping and educated at Phillips Exeter Academy. He came to Hillsborough from St. Joseph Cathedral, Manchester, and under his care the church has prospered and promises to yield yet greater good in the future.