Blacksmith Shop Original Site

National park archeologist investigate the original site of the blacksmith shop.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Amenities

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Audio Description

In 1871 young Jesse Hoover constructed a blacksmith and wagon repair shop here on the corner of Penn and Downey streets. His business thrived in the rapidly growing village. In 1878 Jesse sold both his shop and the small cottage he had built across Penn Street, and opened a farm implement business a few blocks away on Main Street. In 1888 the original building was moved to another part of town, and was subsequently lost to history.

Reconstructed Shop

In 1957 the Hoover Birthplace Society built a reconstruction of Jesse Hoover's shop. The reconstructed shop was built on the lot directly behind the site of the original shop because the Hoover family thought otherwise it would make things look "too crowded."