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Trials of steam-ploughs near Farningham, Kent, 1862. Creator: Unknown
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Trials of steam-ploughs near Farningham, Kent, 1862. Creator: Unknown
Trials of steam-ploughs near Farningham, Kent, 1862. Although eleven machines or so were at work from time to time, the systems really on trial were those of Fowler, Howard, Smith, and Coleman. "...we saw Messrs. Howard's machines, and also Mr. Fowler's larger and smaller sets in operation; and certainly both the Leeds and the Bedford ploughs made superb work. The mouldboards of both are formed in imitation of the Kentish ploughs, and nothing can excel the perfection of their complete inversion and crumbling of the slice. Mr. Fowler's digging-breasts did a piece of grand work with the large engine, accomplishing about five acres and a half in five hours, in good strong lea, though not a clayey soil...Messrs. Brown and May, of Devizes, were cultivating the only piece of really heavy land we saw during the trials; their windlass is stationary...Messrs. Coleman's apparatus was drawing two five-tined cultivators, each 4ft. wide - adaptations of the well-known cultivators of this firm, fitted with steerages. A man stands upon each implement; and, after completing a journey, guides the implement backwards into its next course, so that a minimum of time is lost at the ends. No rope-porters were used, as the field presented a concave surface'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862
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Media ID 35124463
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures the essence of innovation and progress during the mid-19th century agricultural revolution, as depicted in the Trials of Steam-Ploughs near Farningham, Kent, in 1862. The image showcases a scene of several steam-ploughs in action, with eleven machines working intermittently to test the systems of Fowler, Howard, Smith, and Coleman. The trial grounds were a hive of activity, with spectators and workers alike gathered to witness the advancements in agricultural technology. Among the ploughs in operation were Messrs. Howard's machines and Mr. Fowler's larger and smaller sets. The Leeds and Bedford ploughs, both designed with mouldboards inspired by the traditional Kentish ploughs, were particularly noteworthy for their ability to completely invert and crumble the soil slice, creating a seamless finish. Mr. Fowler's digging-breasts, powered by a large engine, accomplished an impressive five and a half acres in five hours, demonstrating the efficiency and productivity of steam power. The trial grounds also featured the unique cultivation methods of Messrs. Brown and May, of Devizes. Their heavy land cultivation employed a stationary windlass, and their cultivators, each 4ft. wide, were drawn by the steam-ploughs and guided by men standing on the implements. This method minimized the time lost at the ends of each furrow, making it a more efficient solution for working on uneven terrain. The Trials of Steam-Ploughs near Farningham, Kent, in 1862, marked a significant moment in agricultural history, showcasing the ingenuity and determination of inventors and farmers to adapt to new technologies and improve farming practices. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, offering a fascinating insight into the agricultural revolution and the spirit of innovation that defined the era.
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