Countless contraptions that revolutionized farming in the 19th and early 20th centuries have become contemporary curiosities or even mysteries. Here are six sent in by readers. Do you know what they are?
Answers to June/July 2026 items will appear in the October/November 2026 issue.
Answers for items in this issue must be received by August 19, 2026.
A. Piece measures 10-1/2 inches tall by 4-1/2 inches wide. Inside the drum are 12 blades (fine, like a hacksaw blade). Marked “Hercules.” Nice pinstriping around top. Originally submitted January 2018
B. Piece measures 6-1/4 inches long. Originally submitted January 2018
C. Measures about 4 by 4-1/2 inches wide and about 7 inches tall. Originally submitted March 2018
D. When fully extended, tool measures about 22-1/2 inches. Width is about 1-3/4 inches at the widest point on the handles. Originally submitted March 2018
E. Arms measure about 10 inches long. Total length is about 16 inches. No markings. Originally Submitted December 2022
To submit photos:
Send prints to Farm Collector, 1503 SW 42nd St., Topeka, KS 66609. Send digital images to Editor@FarmCollector.com.
Photos should be taken in a well-lit area against a plain background. Include dimensions and any markings on the piece. We cannot guarantee every photo will be published, nor can we respond to inquiries regarding when photos will be published. No photos will be returned.
Digital photos should be sent as .jpgs at a minimum of 300 dpi.
To identify an item:
Send answers (with your name and address) to Farm Collector, 1503 SW 42nd St., Topeka, KS 66609. Email responses may be sent to Editor@FarmCollector.com.
Answers for new items shown in this issue must be received by August 19, 2026.
