Farmall Tractors: Every Model 1923-1973

INTRODUCTION

The invention of the tractor was nearly as significant to farmers as the invention of the reaper. In 1831, Cyrus Hall McCormick's reaper marked the beginning of the power farming era, where machinery replaced physical labor and increased productivity. Unlike the reaper, the tractor's development was gradual, earning it the nickname "slow-a-bornin'."

The Original Farmall

With the introduction of the new Farmall, the era of the Fordson tractor in America came to an end. Although Fordson production continued until 1928, International Harvester's Farmall surpassed Ford in tractor production by 1926. The revolutionary Farmall played a key role in Harvester's success and profitability during this time.

The Farmall Becomes a Series

By 1931, Harvester had navigated successfully through government antitrust actions and competition from Henry Ford's Fordson. The company emerged as a leader in agricultural equipment, with the Farmall tractor exceeding expectations. Harvester's other farm equipment and trucks were also selling well, aided by a Republican administration in the White House.

Farmalls with Style

During the Great Depression, manufacturers sought to boost sales through product styling. This approach, which emphasized design and functionality, reflected optimism about the economic future. The automobile industry led the way in adopting styling changes, which soon extended to other products, including Farmall tractors.

Farmall by the Numbers

In 1951, International Harvester's board appointed John McCaffrey as chairman and CEO, ushering in a more engineering-focused management style. However, the emphasis on construction equipment may have compromised the quality of the farm equipment line. By the late 1950s, quality issues and declining sales led to layoffs and reduced morale at IH, allowing competitors like John Deere to gain ground.

Farmalls of a New Generation

Amidst social and political upheaval in the early 1960s, the assassination of President Kennedy and the Vietnam War challenged the unity of the United States. At the same time, changes in leadership at International Harvester and John Deere influenced the direction of the agricultural equipment industry.

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