New London’s last blacksmith shop

Since May is Historic Preservation Month, the Dover Museum is highlighting the remnants of Roy Shipley’s blacksmith shop, one of several blacksmiths serving the needs of folks in and around New London. In 1959, Roy, 76, had been in the business for 55 years, 53 in the building which stood on the southwest corner of Division and Washington streets. It was constructed in 1866 shortly after the Civil War, by Henry Hampton and his father, Joel.

Shipley learned the business in 1904 from the late Charlie Gabbert. In 1907, he started to work for Henry Hampton, and bought the shop from Hampton in 1909, operating it in the same spot. Little was changed through the years, except to add an electric blower to the forge.

When the last owners of the property, Randy Pence and his wife, made plans to dispose of the building, the museum was able to salvage doors, some siding, and a window with frame from the blacksmith shop with which to create a display in the museum.

The late Elmer Keuhnle carefully used these “saved materials” to recreate a section of the building which surely was one of the oldest still standing in New London. The roof was later added using old wood shingles. Pulleys from the shop are displayed as well as blacksmithing tools, horse shoes, and square nails found in and around the building.

When interviewed in 1959, Shipley said, “It was a tough job in the old days, but it isn’t so hard anymore – since there aren’t any horses to shoe.” Never did he get kicked by a horse! He repaired machinery and other tasks requested by customers until his retirement in 1961.

Shipley taught Sunday School for 30 years, was on the town council for 22 years, and was fire chief over a 30-year span.

The Dover Museum is open 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday or by appointment at 319-367-5403.