The J.I. Case Company was one of the early leaders in the development of steam power for the farm industry. Case built steam engines from 1869 to 1924. During that period, the steam engine was a primary source of power for factories, saw mills, and even towns. Farmers started using self-propelled steam engines in the late 1870s. The 80 hp. Case was regarded as a plowing engine and could pull an 8 to 10 bottom plow. It could also operate the largest threshing machines. By 1900 more than 30 companies were manufacturing over 5,000 steam engines a year for the farm industry. This was to become one of the most romantic periods in the agricultural history.
All Rights Reserved, Copyright by Edward C. Schaefer, 1990, 2012.
