The Farm Tractor: 100 Years of North American Tractors - Softcover

When tractors first arrived on farms, they were crudely designed machines that often broke down in the field. Most farmers couldn’t fathom the day they’d give up their trusty horse for one of these new, strange-looking contraptions. But innovation and improvements soon made tractors the newest workhorses on the farm—continually transforming agriculture throughout the twentieth century.

            The Farm Tractor: 100 Years of North American Tractors chronicles the changes iron power brought to farms, as well as gives an in-depth look at some of the most revolutionary tractors made. From the Fordson to the Farmall, the first Cat diesel tracklayer to the John Deere four-wheel-drive 8010, all the tractors that helped make America fertile agricultural ground are featured. Along with the offerings of major manufacturers, author and photographer Ralph W. Sanders also highlights “orphan” tractors like the Bates Steel Mule, Silver King, and the Sheppard diesels.

            With more than 400 beautiful images of great iconic tractors, this book shows every nut and bolt of these classic machines, as well as details their Nebraska test ratings, power capabilities, and groundbreaking features.

The most comprehensive volume covering these mighty machines, The Farm Tractor is a welcome addition for anyone who still has close ties to the land.

The Farm Tractor: 100 Years of North American Tractorsis a 384-page celebration of the iron powerhouses that revolutionized agriculture. This is the biggest, best, and most complete history ever of classic farm tractors!

Farmer favorites like the groundbreaking Fordson, International Farmall, John Deere A & B models, Allis-Chalmers U, and Caterpillar tracklayers are all gloriously presented with more than 400 stunning photographs.

Author, photographer, and tractor fan Ralph W. Sanders not only highlights every nut and bolt of these machines in his images, but he also details their development, innovative features, and horsepower capabilities.

This book features all the models that cultivated America’s fields in the twentieth century—from the Samson Iron Horse and Bates Steel Mule to the Oliver 70 HC and Big Bud 16V-747, from the 1800s steamers to the high-powered diesel workhorses of the 1970s. Along with company brochures and advertisements, The Farm Tractor is an unparalleled look at American agriculture.