Not much literature about the Faribault Engine Mfg. Co. exists,
but a circa 1910 booklet, The ‘Faribault Gasoline’ Engine,
which does, says, “A GOOD gasoline engine is one that is good in
every respect and it is this conviction which prompted the thorough
study of this subject resulting in the Faribault Engine, which
combines all of the elements of a good engine, and at the same time
eliminates the faults so common to gasoline engines in general. We
have studied, and worked to produce an engine second to none in
strength, symmetry and beauty of outline together with durability
and smoothness in operation. Our plant is equipped with first class
machinery, and all mechanical parts are made to gauge or template,
and are interchangeable. Every engine is thoroughly tested before
leaving our testing block, and must show ample surplus power at
rated speed. What you want to consider in buying an engine are
simplicity, efficiency, absence of trouble, small repair bills,
durability and established reputation. Our catalogue shows our
engines designed especially for the man, who, without previous
knowledge is to be his own engineer. We do not claim that all the
good features of our engine are exclusive with us, but that no
other engine combines all of these features as does The Faribault.”
The booklet also gave testimonials:
March 1, 1907, Faribault, Minn.
“Gentlemen: It will give me pleasure to testify to the merits of
the 3-horse Faribault Gasoline Engine, purchased of you in April,
1904. I have sawed my own wood, as well as my neighbors, ground all
my own feed and have no further use for windmills. I have never
enjoyed life on the farm as I have since getting this engine. I am
fully satisfied with my engine. It is more than three horse power.
Yours very truly, L. DURLAND”
Nov. 26, 1904, Truman, Minn.
“Now in answer to your letter about my engine, I will say, as
the fellow did about his wife, after he was married. The boys asked
him how he liked her. Well, he says first rate what he had seen of
her. That is about the way with my engine, unless she has some
tricks yet to develop, she is all right – fine and dandy – does her
work at sight and starts the same. I show mine to everybody that
comes on the farm. Yours respectfully, W. E. HARRIS”
Dec. 19, 1910, Morristown, Minn.
“Gentlemen: I must say your engine is as good as any make I know
of. It is simple and cannot get out of order, and anyone can start
it easy, and furthermore it can be speeded high or low while it’s
running. I have had your engine for some time and have given it all
kinds of trials, by well drilling, sawing wood and grinding feed,
and must say it’s always ready, like Johnny on the Spot. I am well
pleased with the engine, and furthermore the Faribault Gas Engine
Mfg. Co. has treated me like a gentlemen all around, and if anyone
would like to see the engine run, come and see for yourself, the
engine talks for itself. Yours truly, S.C. WOLF.”
All Faribaults were apparently sideshaft engines, and the
stationary open-jacket group came in sizes from 3 to 20 HP.
Portable, or mounted engines, weighing from 1,030 pounds to 5,000
pounds, came in the same sizes.
The company also produced a series of engines both for marine
use and railway motor cars, guaranteeing a 35 MPH plunge down the
tracks loaded or unloaded. Gasoline-powered launches and pump jacks
were also built by the company.
