Sr., 5071 Parrish Street Ext, Canandaigua, New York 14424
Several years ago you asked me for some photos and a story about
our collection of tractors. I am sorry I am so late in answering
your letter, but here is a story of one tractor.
I have seen mention in the last twenty years in books on old
tractors, that General Motors had designed a larger tractor to go
along with their little model ‘M’ Samson tractor, but never
had built one. Actually they built about six, and we have parts of
three one complete as pictured.
An ad (at right) in the 1919 Chilton Tractor Index tells of this
tractor. It is a three-four plow size with a flat head with a
G.M.C. made engine, direct-connected generator for lights, large
wheels, etc. I acquired the tractor from Marvin Helgensen,
Jamesville, Wisconsin. The tractors were built in Jamesville.
The pictures were taken by George Leisten, 5981 Ketcham Road,
Canandaigua, New York 14424. You would not have this story if he
had not stopped and taken these pictures.
One of the earlier Fairmonts, this railroad inspection car was
purchased new by the Boston & Maine Railroad. It’s a 1929
M19 RR car, with one cylinder; and a two cycle engine provides
power through a belt drive. The engine slides to loosen or tighten
the belt acting as a clutch. There is no transmission. The engine
operates in either direction. Courtesy of Victor Cross, 3282 Old
Quarry Road, Wever, IA 52658.
