VERONICA FERNANDEZ-ALVARADO valvarado@chespub.com
Jul 20, 2024
EASTON — Abandoned historic buildings across Maryland are getting a second chance through Olde School Builders, a home reconstruction and improvement business reforming historic structures across Maryland and Pennsylvania.
A ribbon cutting for a newly turned apartment building was held on July 11. The former abandoned doctor’s office in Easton has been renovated into two apartment units with modern appliances.
Craig Postlewait, president of Olde School Builders, said he is passionate about reconstructing old buildings and giving them new purpose.
Postlewait said his business has the goal to reconstruct and improve historic buildings while maintaining their integrity.
When choosing buildings to renovate, he says he seeks out buildings that other people feel are “too much to do.” Though he purchases the building for renovation, he sees himself as more of steward than an owner.
“I’m the steward of the building,” Postlewait said. “I take care of the building, and to me, that’s the part that keeps me doing what I do. There’s a lot of other jobs that I probably could have made a lot more money doing other things, but I found something that I love doing, and that’s what keeps me in it.”
For over 40 years, Postlewait has committed himself to the reconstruction of historic buildings. The former doctor’s office now blends modern amenities while attempting to keep “the charm of Easton’s historic architecture,” according to Postlewait.
Amy Kreiner of the Talbot County Chamber of Commerce said Postlewait is dedicated to preserving buildings’ histories.
“He understands that homes are more than just structures; they are reflections of their owners,” Kreiner said. “Through their standards of excellence and unwavering dedication, they create spaces that not only enrich our community’s character but also bolster our local economy.”
Postlewait said he feels proud of all his finished projects.
“It’s pretty amazing to be able to say not only did I do that, but I was a piece of the history,” Postlewait said. “I was never a big history buff, but I found that I’m actually now a part of history being made because somebody’s kids or grandchildren are going to live in those buildings someday.”
