Located at 104 N Elm St. in downtown Lumberton, the upcoming Ladder Company Cafe is breathing new life into the city’s historic 1917 fire station. Owners Tommy and Gidget Vickers, who moved to Lumberton three years ago from Indianapolis, fell in love with the dilapidated building at first sight. Their passion for restoring vintage structures and desire to contribute to the community fueled the long process of securing the property.

The cafe, occupying a thoughtfully renovated 800 square feet of the 7,000-square-foot landmark, will serve as both a tribute to the building’s storied past and a fresh gathering spot for locals. Patrons can expect a casual dining experience with a menu focused on quality, featuring artisanal deli sandwiches like a roast beef on rye and a classic Reuben, as well as unique charcuterie boards. Tommy shared that they are avoiding fried food to provide a fresher, healthier alternative. 

In honoring the structure’s origins, Tommy and Gidget have restored architectural features such as custom bi-fold doors modeled after original firehouse blueprints and preserved the tin ceiling. A small fire museum is also planned on-site. The couple plans to begin limited service by late January and expand steadily. 

Stay up to date with the new cafe by following their Facebook page.

**Editor's note: Keep an eye out for an expanded story on the Vickers' business endeavors and work in restoring historic buildings in the Jan. 16 issue of the Journal!