Mole Trap, circa 1850

Moles are small, burrowing mammals that feed on worms and grubs. The mole's digging in pursuit of food, however, can damage or destroy the roots of crops. And their close-to-the-surface tunnels produce unsightly ridges in manicured lawns. For centuries, people have employed a variety of methods to remove moles. In the 19th and 20th centuries, people could use a trap like this.