GARDNER, Mass.–Workers Credit Union here said it will unveil a memorial at the site of the former Ohave Shalom synagogue. In 2017, the synagogue was purchased for $500 by the credit union and demolished in order to become a parking lot.
The site now features several shade trees planted earlier this year and memorial dedicated to the Jewish community. Community members are being invited to the unveiling ceremony at which refreshments will be served.
“Community is one of the most important elements of the Workers Way” said WCU COO Sandra Sagehorn Elliott in a statement. “We truly hope that this memorial will stand to remember our community history and the people who have made Gardner what it is today. We especially thank all of the community members who have reached out to share their stories of Ohave Shalom and its importance in their lives.”
The demolition of the synagogue, which was built in 1912, was the subject of much discussion in the community. In response to the community, the credit union is erecting the memorial and also donated the stained glass star from the building to the Gardner Museum.