BROOKS, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- A nationally-recognized Brooks business is back open after a destructive fire two months ago.
Peter Baldwin, maker of Baldwin Apple Ladders, assembled his first orchard ladders Sunday afternoon since the May fire.
The apple ladders, which are tappered at the top to help farmers pick apples easier, have been sold across the country, even featured in Martha Stewart Magazine.
The site of the 30-year business was unrecognizable after a fire destroyed Baldwin's shop and machinery.
Since then, Baldwin has been rebuilding inside of a storage facility on his property.
He's used parts from different machines to make a new shop, but it takes him four times as long to produce each ladder.
"It's a great relief," said Baldwin. "I didn't know any of these systems, whether they would work or not."
Because he's been in the business for 30 years, the fire came at a time when it would have made sense to retire.
But it didn't make sense for him.
"I'll probably make ladders for as long as I can," said Baldwin.
He might try to make a bigger, more efficient work space after the summer.
"I'm just going to get through this summer, try and make what ladders I can, and then think about the plan this fall after I get through this phase," he said.
If he does decide to take on the bigger building project, he knows he has a whole community behind him.
"It's been very heartwarming. Almost everyone has said, 'I have a hammer, just give me a call," said Baldwin.
Even with this setback, Baldwin considers himself lucky.
"I'm grateful that I was able to have this building survive," he said.
"I've had such an outpouring of support. I'm grateful for that."
NEWS CENTER