Grain Drill, circa 1890
Add to SetSummary
The grain drill was superior to hand sowing because it distributed seed uniformly at a controlled depth and covered it properly. Less seed per acre was used, but higher yields resulted. Early drills required an even seedbed to be effective. This improved drill, patented 1863 by P.D. Beckwith, used heavy cast iron wheels to both smooth and plant the seedbed.
The grain drill was superior to hand sowing because it distributed seed uniformly at a controlled depth and covered it properly. Less seed per acre was used, but higher yields resulted. Early drills required an even seedbed to be effective. This improved drill, patented 1863 by P.D. Beckwith, used heavy cast iron wheels to both smooth and plant the seedbed.
Artifact
Seed drill
Date Made
circa 1890
Creators
Beckwith, P. D. (Philo D.), 1825-1889
Place of Creation
United States, Michigan, Dowagiac
Creator Notes
Patented design by P. D. Beckwith and John S. Gage; manufactured by Beckwith & Lee, Dowagiac, Michigan
On Exhibit
at Greenfield Village in Soybean Lab Agricultural Gallery
Object ID
00.3.16553
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Wood (Plant material)
Iron (Metal)
Dimensions
Width: 50 in
Length: 74 in
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