March 9, 2010 - by Bill MacDonald - An early morning fire consumed Arthur Davignon's blacksmith shop on the Cumberland Fairgrounds this morning.

Donna Fenderson heard several loud bangs at 5:00 am and awoke to find the

Cumberland Fire Dept. Photo

shop fully engulfed in flames. She dialed 911 immediately. Fire crews arrived only to find the shop a complete loss. Fire investigators were unable to find the cause of the fire although it was thought to be electrical in nature.

The shop housed the tools and equipment used by Arthur Davignon in his blacksmith trade. Davignon, 78, also helped horsemen on the grounds with equipment repair. Lost in the fire were his welder, a drill press, approximately $3,000 worth of horseshoes and blacksmith tools. Also lost was a sleigh that was around 150 years old.

The building set on the right side of the barn that houses the Donald Richards and Wallace Watson Stables facing the jog track. Fire crews were concerned as burning embers from the fire were landing on the roof of that barn, but there was no damage

The MHHA is taking steps to set up a collection or some other contribution vehicle to help assist those who are affected. The building nor its belongings were insured. Details will be made available as soon as possible.