Economic conditions in the Bay Area have changed so radically since the pandemic that a lot of legacy businesses are being forced to close. The latest is a 116-year-old metal shop in Berkeley that has become a victim of new technology.

The Walter Mork Company began in 1909, a few years after the San Francisco earthquake, when Walter brought his metal fabrication skills to Berkeley to open his own shop.

"My grandfather is this man right here with the balding head," said Fred Mork, pointing to a grainy black and white photograph on the office wall.

Mork ended up with the business, having it passed on to him from his father, Walter, Jr. But now, as he walks through the cavernous building, he can't see a future, because in a few months' time the Walter Mork Company will close for good.

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