Farm Progress

Does this item ring a bell? Did you ever use one? Tell us about it!

Tom J Bechman 1, Editor, Indiana Prairie Farmer

October 24, 2020

2 Min Read
antique farm tool
WHAT’S THIS FOR? If you were breaking out new land decades ago, you might have found this tool handy. Tom J. Bechman

Take a good look at the mix of green iron and cables in the photo. Does this contraption ring a bell? It has a specific name, was used for one specific purpose, and the manufacturer is even documented.

This is one of dozens of farm tools, now antique, preserved in the Hancock County Agricultural Museum in Britt, Iowa.

This device was used by a farmer in that county and in Nebraska, and donated to the museum by one of his descendants. Here is a hint. The power source to allow this device to function is missing. But the rest of the necessary items to accomplish the job are there.

Need another clue? This device became extinct once bulldozers entered the scene.

If you know what it is, let us know. If you remember using one or your dad or grandfather using one, share your story. If there are multiple correct answers, we will draw a winner at random to receive a gift card. Email [email protected] or write to: Indiana Prairie Farmer, P.O. Box 247, Franklin, IN 46131.

Correct guess

It’s time to reveal the function of the device pictured in the October issue and in this story online. It’s a crude grain cleaner. This one was displayed on the Fouts farm, Camden, Ind., during the 100th anniversary celebration of the American Soybean Association. Taylor, Finis and Noah Fouts held a field day in 1920, which led to the formation of what became ASA.

Because they were pioneers in growing and developing soybeans, this grain cleaner was likely used most to clean soybeans for seed. Thanks to all who sent correct answers after seeing the picture online or in the issue. The gift card recipient is Margaret Horn, Crawfordsville, Ind.

We’re still waiting for someone to identify who made The Rex planter, featured online and in the November issue.

 

About the Author(s)

Tom J Bechman 1

Editor, Indiana Prairie Farmer

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