One Step at a Time

By Oscar H. Will Iii
Published on March 1, 2006
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This nice planter line-up includes several of Herb's Planet Jr. models.
This nice planter line-up includes several of Herb's Planet Jr. models.
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Herb's Planet Jr. Jiffy Seeder is in remarkably complete condition. While it would take a little work to make the machine function well, it is still up to the task. This model used a canning jar for the seed hopper much like Maytag once used a canning jar for a fuel tank, and many tractor manufacturers used Ball jars on intake air pre-cleaners.
Herb's Planet Jr. Jiffy Seeder is in remarkably complete condition. While it would take a little work to make the machine function well, it is still up to the task. This model used a canning jar for the seed hopper much like Maytag once used a canning jar for a fuel tank, and many tractor manufacturers used Ball jars on intake air pre-cleaners.
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Herb's collection (here, reel mowers) literally hangs from the rafters of one of his sheds.
Herb's collection (here, reel mowers) literally hangs from the rafters of one of his sheds.
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David Bradley Model 597 seeder was marketed through Sears, Roebuck & Co. The tubular steel handles are not a favorite of Herb's; however, this unit is a heavyweight. The hopper beneath the handles is a No. 400 fertilizer unit powered via chain by the rear press wheel.
David Bradley Model 597 seeder was marketed through Sears, Roebuck & Co. The tubular steel handles are not a favorite of Herb's; however, this unit is a heavyweight. The hopper beneath the handles is a No. 400 fertilizer unit powered via chain by the rear press wheel.
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The 10 hp Speedex S-24 is one of Herb Kroger's favorites because it looks unusual and has a hand clutch/brake lever.
The 10 hp Speedex S-24 is one of Herb Kroger's favorites because it looks unusual and has a hand clutch/brake lever.
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The New Idea No. 5 transplanter was originally horse-drawn. This particular unit has been modified slightly for the tractor. When fitted for horses, a metal seat was attached to the tank lid's hinge for the driver, and the wooden tongue would have been much longer.
The New Idea No. 5 transplanter was originally horse-drawn. This particular unit has been modified slightly for the tractor. When fitted for horses, a metal seat was attached to the tank lid's hinge for the driver, and the wooden tongue would have been much longer.
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Seed selection with the Standard No. 8 planter is as easy as turning this adjustment cam.
Seed selection with the Standard No. 8 planter is as easy as turning this adjustment cam.
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Herb's original condition David Bradley Tri-Trac garden tractor shown with front blade mounted.
Herb's original condition David Bradley Tri-Trac garden tractor shown with front blade mounted.
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This Crusader ball bearing push mower is especially interesting to Herb because of the medieval shield symbol.
This Crusader ball bearing push mower is especially interesting to Herb because of the medieval shield symbol.
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Front cover detail of Herb's Planet Jr. Farm and Garden Tools catalog. Planet Jr. was a trademark of S.L. Allen & Co., Philadelphia.
Front cover detail of Herb's Planet Jr. Farm and Garden Tools catalog. Planet Jr. was a trademark of S.L. Allen & Co., Philadelphia.
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Planet Jr. Seeders: No. 4 combined hill and drill seeder, and a pair of Model 300 seeders (the rightmost is the most recent). The Model 300s were dedicated as seeders, while the No. 4 could also be fitted as a wheel hoe with cultivators and a plow.
Planet Jr. Seeders: No. 4 combined hill and drill seeder, and a pair of Model 300 seeders (the rightmost is the most recent). The Model 300s were dedicated as seeders, while the No. 4 could also be fitted as a wheel hoe with cultivators and a plow.

There are as many reasons for collecting agricultural artifacts as there are people who collect them. Arguably, most collectors accumulate things that they had some personal, often fondly remembered, experiences with, or that remind them of the lighter times of their youth. However, Herb Kroger, an eclectic collector from Deputy, Ind., also finds certain items appeal because he was physically unable to use them.

“The walking cultivators and implements were always interesting to me,” Herb explains with a twinkle in his eye. “My legs were never strong enough (for me) to use any of them, so naturally they were attractive.” At a young age, Herb was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a neurological condition that takes on many forms. One of its noteworthy characteristics is a gradual weakening of muscles, which in Herb’s case centered in his legs. Today, Herb’s legs often require a great deal of concentration and effort to move, and though he hasn’t let the condition hold him back, he has had to adapt.

“I’ve lost some mobility and a lot of leg strength over the years,” Herb explains, pointing out hand levers he installed on some of his tractors so that he can use his arms to control the clutches. “I like to modify and fabricate things anyway, so it (the MS) hasn’t really been that bad.” Herb is also quick to point out he’s never limited his collection to walking tools. “I collect anything that is interesting.” Today, Herb’s interested in tractors, machinery, hand tools, literature, packaging and just about anything that has to do with the International Harvester Co. “There isn’t much he won’t drag home,” says Herb’s wife, Carla, with a laugh. “He has a few buildings in town that are completely full too.”

A retired farmer, IH parts man and salesman, tractor repair shop owner and construction company equipment dispatcher, Herb’s work experiences have been varied. Now retired, he devotes a good deal of his strength to his collections each day. “Some days I wonder how I will ever get to all of the projects I have in mind,” Herb says, sitting on a stool behind a counter in his workshop that looks remarkably like the parts counter in an old IH dealership. “One thing is for sure though: I have to take it one day at a time.”

Tools to walk behind

Although walk-behind implements don’t necessarily anchor Herb’s collections, they are among some of his most prized possessions. “I am partial to Planet Jr. garden machines,” Herb explains while leafing through one of his mint condition Planet Jr. catalogs. “It is nice to find the paper that goes with the product.” Herb has a broad collection of Planet Jr. items, including a U.S. Ski Team Flexible Flier Sled, several original condition Model 300 seeders and a near-mint condition Model 300 wooden shipping box. “The planter, box and catalog make a nice display,” he adds.

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