In 2021, local business owners across Cape Ann faced a growing labor shortage that threatened the vitality of our regional economy. In response, a collaborative task force—including State Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, municipal leaders, Cape Ann Transportation Authority (CATA), and Discover Gloucester—convened a community listening session in January 2022 to pinpoint key challenges and chart a path forward.
Out of those conversations, Cape Ann Works was launched: an innovative pilot program designed to bolster the local workforce while creating meaningful, engaging opportunities for young workers.
Cape Ann Works: Our Foundation
Saving a Rockport Treasure
For more than 15 years, the once iconic Blacksmith Shop Restaurant sat neglected in the heart of Rockport’s Cultural District.Today, Cape Ann Works is thoughtfully preserving the character of this beloved historic landmark—returning it to its roots as a true community anchor. Built by the community, for the community, our full restoration will feature a revived main dining room, hands-on teaching spaces, and on-site workforce housing—creating a place to gather, dine, live, and kearn
The Transformation has Begun
While restoration continues, our café is open year-round! Swing by for your morning coffee, breakfast sandwich, or fresh pastry, grab a hearty soup or pressed panini for lunch and dinner, and pick up hats, tees, or handcrafted breadbaskets to support the restoration project
See our Progress
Follow our journey as we reach new milestones in the restoration. Browse our story, share your own memories of the Blacksmith, or get in touch to learn how you can get involved with the project