End of an Era: Gold Medal Ladder Factory to be Demolished

Newark Valley, NY – The Gold Medal Ladder factory, a historic landmark in northern Tioga County, is set to be demolished soon, bringing an end to an era that has shaped the community for decades.

The former factory, located at the corner of Rewey Avenue and Clinton Street, has been a prominent feature in Newark Valley since its founding in 1922. After years of deterioration and remaining vacant for 24 years, the Village of Newark Valley has secured a state grant to fund the $500,000 demolition project.

New Beginnings Amidst Nostalgia

Newark Valley Mayor Jim Tornatore described the demolition as a significant step forward for the village. The abandoned building, which has become an eyesore and a safety hazard, will finally be cleared. Tornatore noted that concerns about the collapsing roof and potential fire hazards had been raised by Fire Chief John Haney.

LCP Group of Vestal will handle the demolition, with asbestos removal starting soon. The entire project is expected to be completed by March 31. The factory’s last employees, Ray Shaver and Sharon Weed, who closed the plant in 1993, view the demolition with mixed emotions. They remember the factory’s bustling days with nostalgia and pride.

A Legacy of Labor and Innovation

The Gold Medal Ladder factory was a cornerstone of local industry, employing nearly 100 workers at its peak and expanding its workforce during high-demand seasons. Generations of families worked at the factory, often balancing their jobs with farming duties. Shaver, who worked at the factory from 1952 to 1993, witnessed the transition from wooden to aluminum and fiberglass ladders and played a role in designing equipment and expanding the facility.

Weed, who joined in 1963, held various roles and contributed to the factory’s success. She recalls the factory’s prosperity and its role in shipping ladders nationwide. The building also had a varied history before becoming the ladder factory, including manufacturing automated manure spreaders and housing airplane parts.

Future Uncertain

As for the future of the site, there are discussions about potential redevelopment, including the possibility of a solar park. However, no final plans have been confirmed, and there remains a chance that the property could remain vacant after demolition.

Residents and former employees are invited to visit the Town Historian’s office for a look at the factory’s history, including photos and memorabilia. The office is open Wednesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. For updates on the demolition and future developments, visit the Village of Newark Valley’s website or contact them directly.

Contact Information:

● Village Website: villageofnewarkvalley.com

● Phone: (607) 642-8686

● Town Historian’s Office: (607) 642-5541 or (607) 642-8789

The end of the Gold Medal Ladder factory marks the close of a significant chapter in Newark Valley’s history, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and community spirit.

Read the Original Post:

http://www.owegopennysaver.com/PS/2018/01/30/end-of-an-era-ladder-factory-to-be-demolished-soon/