"Art is not a thing apart, rather it is the province of all mankind. It is simply the doing of anything, for its own sake, as well as one knows how. t is our belief that there is a tremendous latent source of creative energy within each one of us, and that this only has to be tapped to become productive. It is our belief that we would all be happier and the world a better place to live in if everyone indulged in some form of art."

  - Dr. Henry S. F. Cooper

The present Smithy Pioneer Gallery is the oldest building in Cooperstown. It was built by Judge William Cooper in 1786 to serve as a blacksmith shop for the infant settlement of Cooperstown. Its forges, anvil stands, bellows, tools, the smoke-shadows of horseshoes and other features remain. A second and third floor was added to house a carriage repair shop and, what is now the oldest surviving Masonic Hall with original paint in New York State.

Presently, the Smithy serves as a seasonal museum and gallery, showcasing the work of both contemporary and traditional artists and hosting occasional community gatherings and performances. During the summer season, the Smithy draws large crowds to three receptions to open seven shows featuring work by seventy-five artists.

Next door to the Smithy is an 1820 fieldstone three-story double town house with Masonic symbols built into the façade.

Both venerable buildings with their mostly stone and brick construction survived the great Cooperstown fire of 1860. They are now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.