A CUTTING EDGE, MULTI-VENUE PERFORMANCE CENTER AND EVENT RENTAL SPACE IN GREENFIELD, MA

We present music and the arts in an accessible, compelling and hospitable manner for the benefit of the social and economic well-being of our community. From nationally recognized touring acts, to experimental theater, festivals, DIY spaces, community events and more, Hawks and Reed offerings attract a diverse, dynamic and ever growing audience.

Arts Block becomes Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center

In 2017, the Arts Block building was renamed, The Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center, named after the retailer that occupied the downtown space in the 1800s. The name was part of a total rebranding that better reflected the function of the space and tied into Goldsher’s own family history. His grandfather, Harry Goldsher, immigrated to the United States from Germany in the early 1900s, making his way from Bellows Fall, Vt., to Athol, where he opened a clothing store. The name’s historical roots also tap into the strong connection between clothing — the way people dress — and freedom of expression. At its core, art is about freedom of expression, which reflects the purpose of the space as a performing arts center.

There was a clothing store at the front of the building that was called Hawks and Reed — two families.

- Steve Goldsher, Owner

History of The Arms Block

The George A. Arms Block, at 285-291 Main Street, is a 4 story brick building located on the corner of Main Street and Court Square. George Arms, a coal/coke wholesaler, had this building built in 1876 to house his expanding business.

After 10 years, E.A. Newcomb purchased the property to operate a hardware store, which he managed for 30 years before passing the business to Floyd A. Clark in 1916 who operated it until his death. Clark’s widow Gertrude handled operations until her sons purchased the building in 1949. The building’s downtown location, on the corner of two of Greenfield’s busiest streets, has helped it play a major role in the city’s growth. Many of the goods sold here were brought to town via the nearby railroad and used to construct homes, businesses and recreational facilities. It most recently contained Clark Sport Shop on the ground level facing Main Street.