St. Charles Borromeo Church Complex

St. Charles Borromeo Church Complex is a Catholic institutional complex in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, made up of several structures on a large property. The main church displays Gothic architecture, while the property also includes a school building, a rectory, and a residence for clergy and religious sisters.

The church was built between 1862 and 1871 by architect Patrick Charles Keely, who specialized in Gothic design. Additional buildings were added later, with the school arriving in 1897 as the community expanded its facilities over decades.

The name refers to an Italian Catholic saint and reflects the deep Irish roots of this community in an industrial town. The complex shaped how neighborhoods developed and where people gathered for worship and education across generations.

The complex sits on North Main Street and is easily accessible by car or on foot since it occupies a full city block in a residential neighborhood. Visitors should keep in mind this is an active religious site, so respect for worship services and private events is necessary.

The residence for religious sisters was completed as early as 1868, making it one of the first buildings on the property, well before the school was added. This shows the community initially prioritized religious education before later expanding to a public school facility.

Location: Woonsocket

Architects: Patrick Charles Keely

Official opening: 1867

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Address: North Main, Daniels and Earle Streets

Website: https://stcharlesborromeo.com

GPS coordinates: 42.00810,-71.51440

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:46