The Iron Workhorse: American Gas Tractors and Steam Traction Engines

Who would have thought that old smoke-belching workhorse machines could be a thing of beauty. Yet, there is something strangely beautiful about these old machines, and the photos and text in this book capture this nicely, both at work and at shows. These mighty machines formed the backbone of rural America; featured in this book are machines built by Advance-Rumley and Gaar Scott, Avery, Buffalo-Pitts, J.I. Case, Hart-Parr, International, Minneapolis Threshing, and Pioneer, along with a few other manufacturers. Most of these machines run on steam, but several examples that run on kerosene are also included. The second chapter highlights special components, both mechanical and structural, while the third and fourth chapters chronicle the specific duties for which these tractors and engines are used and the special equipment they drive. The final chapter is on special shows, often showing these mighty machines dueling one another. This book is a fine tribute to the machines that "helped tame the Midwest."