Southbridge Savings to maintain OSV shop

Courtesy photo Southbridge Savings Bank President Philip Pettingelli watches a demonstration at the Old Sturbridge Village Blacksmith Shop. Southbridge Savings has committed to funding the care and maintenance of the building.

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By Emily Micucci

Southbridge Savings Bank will fund the continued preservation and care of the Blacksmith Shop at Old Sturbridge Village (OSV) through the museum’s Adopt-a-Building program, OSV announced.

One of more than 40 historic buildings located at the OSV, the Blacksmith Ship was built in 1810 in Bolton and relocted to OSV in 1957. Blacksmith Moses Wilder build the shop using granite stones, and ran a prosperous business making and repairing tools used in a neighboring quarry, according to OSV.

“Southbridge Savings Bank’s support of the Blacksmith Shop will help to maintain this treasured aspect of the village, ensuring future generations will get to hear our costumed historians explain early New England history amidst the smoke from the fire and the sounds of a strike on the anvil,” OSV President and CEO James E. Donahue said in a statement.

The Blacksmith Shop is among the most popular exhibits at OSV, according to Donahue.

Southbridge Savings has supported other projects at OSV in the past, including the renovation of the Thompson Bank and construction of the Small House, located near the village entrance.

“We consider the village an important historical museum in our backyard and it is our privilege to continue to support it,” Southbridge Savings Bank President Philip Pettinelli said.