This is an example of the tractor referred to on the construction mechanization page. It still uses wheels at the front for steering. The film dates from the early 1920’s so the vehicle was probably quite old at that time as the bulldozer was already in use.
Dust problems and a solution dating from around 1913
In many developing countries people are turning against gravel roads because of the dust thrown up by vehicles. This has led to re-evaluation of the criteria governing the choice between a gravel and a bitumen road.
A steam-powered aircraft was successfully tested in 1933 but does not seem to have caught on. Its range or payload must have been very limited given its needs for water.
The steam shovel was in general use from the 1850’s on most major building sites.
This video contains remarkable footage of early motor racing. Fanatics will find a complete set of videos covering motor racing up to the Second World War
Some traction engines dating from the 1890’s to the 1920’s
Examples of traction engines filmed at one of the numerous rallies held in the US. These machines were the forerunners of the modern tractor. They were widespread all over the world from the middle of the 19th century until the second world war and for a while afterwards but the superior economy and mobility of the farm tractor gradually displaced them.
Farm tractors dating from the 1920’s through the ’30’s
These were filmed at the same rally. They follow the classic dictum: “form follows function”. Tractors found their characteristic layout about one hundred years ago. It is easy to see why they rapidly displaced the steam traction engine and for that matter the horse: simple, easy to start, and economical. A small farmer could hope to own one but could only rent the traction engine by the day for specific tasks.
Video from the 1920’s showing the construction of a concrete highway in Ontario. Techniques show an optimal balance of labour and machines, reflecting the relatively high wages of the time. In poorer countries, concrete is used sometimes instead of gravel over short distances in rural areas where rainfall is high and slopes are steep
This short film, dating from the early ’20’s, shows the construction and use of a simple animal or tractor-drawn grader for gravel or earth roads. It could be useful today in poor countries for maintaining low-volume roads. Comments?
Bitumenous treatment of gravel roads
Training video made in Ontario in the 1920’s showing how a gravel road can be made less dusty. The method may not be too sound from an ecological standpoint. I would appreciate comments on its applicability today using environmentally friendly substances.
