Blacksmith shops were a necessity in the early days. A blacksmith is a person who creates objects from iron or steel by "forging" the metal. They use tools to hammer, bend, cut, and otherwise shape it in its non-liquid form. Usually the metal is heated until it glows red or orange as part of the forging process. Years ago nearly everyone brought equipment to the blacksmith be repaired or have parts made. Today most farmers have their own repair shops, welders and tools to fix most problems.
In Gould there was a blacksmith shop behind Wades Produce on El Paso Street one-half block east off Kennedy Avenue.
David Smith had a welding shop at the west side of Gould. He also had a Fix-It Shop.
Albright Blacksmith Shop was located where the post office now sets.
Another blacksmith shop was owned by Wesley Martin, father of Bessie and Willie Martin. Hobart Earls worked in this shop.
Gould Blacksmith Shop was owned by Mr. C.P. Keller, father of Nettie Bonner. It was located near the present day gin yard.
Another one that I remember was Body Works Blacksmith, but do not know the owner.
