Historic Boston-area church built in 1743 catches fire as crews work to extinguish blaze

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Fire crews in a central Massachusetts town were responding Friday to a blaze at a centuries-old historic church after the building was struck by lightning during a storm. 

The Spencer Fire Department said firefighters responded to the First Congressional Church around 3 p.m. for a report of a fire in the steeple. Flames and smoke could be seen billowing from the structure. 

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Authorities have not said if there were any injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

The Spencer-East Brookfield Regional School District said the church building was struck by lightning earlier during a storm. 

The church was constructed in 1743 on land donated by a wealthy merchant, according to its website. The town of Spencer wasn't established until a decade later. 

In 1772, a larger church was built on the site. A steeple and bell were added in 1802. 

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The church was destroyed by a fire in 1862 but was rebuilt, Boston 25 reported.