Ketchum's Mowing Machine, 1859
Add to SetSummary
This is the first successful machine designed exclusively for mowing. Earlier machines were designed as reapers, with mowing as a secondary function. This machine ran at a higher speed, more suited for mowing, and with more distance between the cutter bar and drive wheel, it could better negotiate uneven ground. By 1864, over 20,000 of these mowers were in use.
This is the first successful machine designed exclusively for mowing. Earlier machines were designed as reapers, with mowing as a secondary function. This machine ran at a higher speed, more suited for mowing, and with more distance between the cutter bar and drive wheel, it could better negotiate uneven ground. By 1864, over 20,000 of these mowers were in use.
Artifact
Mowing machine
Date Made
1859
Creators
Place of Creation
United States, New York, Buffalo
Creator Notes
Manufactured by R. L. Howard in Buffalo, New York based on a patented design by William F. Ketchum also of Buffalo, New York.
Keywords
On Exhibit
at Henry Ford Museum in Agriculture
Object ID
00.3.8166
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Wood (Plant material)
Cast iron
Dimensions
Width: 48 in
Length: 100 in
Weight: 753 lbs
Inscriptions
KETCHUM'S PATENTS JULY 10,1847, FEB. 10, 1852, MAY 17, 1853, DEC. 19, 1854, JAN. 15, 1856, MAY 27, 1856 MFD. BY R. L. HOWARD, BUFFALO, N.Y. 1859.
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