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Group of dignitaries and community members unveiling the Ohave Shalom Synagogue memorial stone
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September 10, 2019 In the Community WCU News Maria McCaffrey

Workers Credit Union Unveils Memorial at Former Ohave Shalom Synagogue Site

In late August, Workers Credit Union unveiled a memorial at the site of the former Ohave Shalom synagogue, located at 192 Pleasant Street, Gardner. After a few years of disuse, the property was purchased by Workers Credit Union and demolished, but credit union employees wanted to ensure that one of the city’s most significant historical sites would not be forgotten.

“Community is one of the most important elements of the Workers Way” said Sandra Sagehorn-Elliott, Workers Credit Union Chief Operating Officer. “We truly hope that this memorial will stand to remind us of our community’s history and the people who made Gardner what it is today. We especially thank the former congregants who reached out to share their stories of Ohave Shalom and its importance in their lives.”

Closeup of the monument stone that reads "On this site from 1912-2017 stood the synagogue that was home to congregation Ohave Shalom for much of the 20th century. This marker commemorates the building and celebrates the contributions its congregants made to the city of Gardner."

More than 30 dignitaries and community members, including Rep. Jon Zlotnik, Mayor Mark Hawke, WCU President Doug Petersen and several representatives from Congregation Agudat Achim in Leominster attended the unveiling. Marion Knoll, curator of the Gardner Museum, spoke about the rich history of the temple and its attendees and noted that several artifacts from the synagogue are now housed at the Museum located at 28 Pearl Street, Gardner, MA.