Major work got underway this week on the historic 1848 Hegarty Blacksmith Shop in Tamaqua.

The Tamaqua Historical Society is undertaking a project that will replace the entire roof on the landmark structure, replace wood and rebuild parts of walls to take care of wood rot. In addition, an exterior rear door will be reinforced with heavy aluminum to prevent future rot and help prevent the building against break-ins.

Berk’s Custom Woodworking is handling the project.

The shop will be open for tours and blacksmithing demonstrations from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday as part of Tamaqua Summerfest. Tamaqua Area High School student and experienced blacksmith Travis Sobolewski will work at the forge and demonstrate his skills. Longtime resident blacksmith Donald Campbell will explain blacksmithing to visitors.

Any tax deductible donations toward the project can be sent to the Tamaqua Historical Society, 118 W. Broad St., Tamaqua, PA, 18252.