It’s not the machines and equipment, but rather the men who operate them has kept Baird Machine Shop in business. Located on the spot just off the square in Houston their grandfather opened in 1913, Baird Machine Shop has been machining and mending parts for farmers, industry and homeowners with a knowledge and skill learned from years of experience.

“We can weld all types of metal, work all types of metal and can machine just about anything you can bring in the door,” Bobby Baird said. “We will even get on the road and come to you if you have something break and need us to look at it.

“Some people call us a machine shop or a job shop. If you need something mended or made, we feel we can do it.”

And the Baird names stands behind all work.

“We have farm families and factories that have been bringing us work for generations,” said Baird. “We are proud they trust us for good work and a fair price.”

Baird Machine Shop is actually two businesses.

The N. Jackson St. serves as the main shop and is where Bobby, Douglas and Rob Baird usually can be found. Their other building at 211 S. Jackson St. houses their forge and is the spot where they shape and grind blades.

A full-service machine shop, Baird Machine Shop can cut, bore, lathe, tap metal to the demanding specs needed on today’s high-tech ag equipment or the most modern machinery found in local mills and factories.

And Baird Machine Shop does more than just the big stuff.

“We do it all,” said Rob Baird, the fourth generation of Bairds to work the business. “We will weld home and garden furniture, things around the house and we will sharpen your hoe or axe, too.”

Floyd Ingram