Old Castantia Church

by Mike Lee

Title

Old Castantia Church

Artist

Mike Lee

Medium

Photograph - Digital Photography

Description

Abandoned Constantia Church in Doyle, California, USA. The church sits just off the scenic US395 highway. I was able to capture this image in early morning light as the trees (mostly cottonwoods, I believe) around the church were in vibrant fall coloration.

Built in 1908, this little chapel was originally known as St. Mary’s Chapel Constantia, named after the settlement created by rancher Henry Butters in Long Valley. For years, Catholic services were held here whenever a priest could make the trip, but by the 1920s the church was largely abandoned. In 1994, the weathered structure was relocated to Doyle beside the Long Valley Cemetery, where it still stands as a rare piece of local history. Listed as a Lassen County historic building, the Constantia Church even survived the 2021 Beckwourth Complex Fire that scorched much of the valley around it. Today, its simple wooden frame and modest bell tower serve as a reminder of the small frontier communities that dotted Highway 395 more than a century ago.

This historic landmark makes a striking image for those who appreciate rustic Americana, pioneer-era architecture, and small-town history. Its autumn setting brings warmth and character, making it ideal for home spaces with country, farmhouse, or Western-inspired design. Travelers who love US395 or residents of Doyle and Lassen County may find this piece especially meaningful as a tribute to the region’s heritage.

Uploaded

October 27th, 2020

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