Scottish agricultural implement makers

We rarely get to hear the views of women on agricultural tasks, including work at the threshing mill. The arrival of the travelling mill on farms was a big occasion. It required a large number of hands coming from neighbouring farms and other ones. All these additional hands needed to be fed. This was an important task to be completed by the women. Some women also worked at the mill, undertaking a range of tasks.

An article in the Aberdeen press and journal of 1 November 1935 by a woman named “Elizabeth” provides an insightful account of the travelling mill in the north-east. I’ll let her provide her reflections in her account:

“Women enjoy the visits of the threshing machine, by Elizabeth.

This morning the steam threshing mill entered our district just as it has entered twice a year for as long as I can remember. It always comes round in October or November, and then again in February when it threshes the last of the season’s corn. Taking Scotland as a whole the portable mill is certainly becoming less and less popular with the passing of years. Farmer after farmer has been finding it more convenient to have his own indoor threshing outfit, but there are still a great many framers-more particularly farmers of the smaller type-who just carry on in the old way without any thoughts of change.

My own opinion is that if the women-folk on the farm were asked to give their opinion on the two ways of threshing they would give their vote for the other system. The women in my vicinity enjoy the visit of the travelling mill, for they know that of the weather is good it can be quite an exciting time. All the neighbours will be there to help, and provided they are in sufficient numbers the work will not be strenuous.

A social occasion

Yes, the coming of the threshing mill with all its paraphernalia is an event in the somewhat easy-going routine of the farm. If a farmer or croft happens to be particularly isolated this is one of the few opportunities which the women folk have of meeting their male neighbours in the mass. The women themselves occasionally meet on the institute nights, and the men have gatherings of their own, but it is only at concerts, dances, weddings, and at such events as the corn threshing that both sexes forgather in comparatively big numbers. In my part of the country there is usually about a score of people at an ordinary threshing, and some times the half of these will be women.

It is the exception to find anyone working for cash payment: it is nearly always a case of giving work in exchange for work. All the neighbours combine in the interests of one of their number, and all derive equal benefit in return. In the crofting districts this community spirit has deep roots in the past and is still very strong. In varying degrees it is seen in the cutting of the peats, in the sheep-dipping, and in the harvesting, but in nothing is it so apparent as in this bi-annual work of corn-threshing. Indeed that is one of the reasons why many of us like to see the old travelling mill continue on its rounds.

An ideal day

Good weather is of great importance for any kind of outdoor work, but for the corn threshing it is really the first thing to be considered. To get rain on newly threshed straw is to get the worst of luck. Even the discomfort for the workers is a secondary consideration.

An ideal day is one in which there is no rain to damage the crops and no wind to blow the straw out of control. On such a day, with a good sun shining overhead, the work can be very pleasant. Particularly is good weather needed for those whose job it is to stand on the top of the mill unfastening the sheaves for the “feeder”.

This work is nearly always done by two women who work in relays. The sheaves are pitchforked to the top of the mill where they are rapidly unfastened by the women’s nimble fingers, and passed on to the “feeder” who is always a skilled male worker.

Suited to women

Although women seem to be specially suited to the handling of the sheaves there are several things in connection with the threshing that they can do equally as well as men. It is true that only a very strong type of women can carry the sacks of corn into the barn, but there is not much else that the average woman cannot do if the threshing is being carried on under ordinary conditions. She is well suited to looking after the chaff department, and girls are usually chosen to share the work of clearing the straw from the “mouth” of the mill. And while the stack-building is always a man’s job, he likes to have a few young persons of both sexes to assist him.

But the women of the house at which the corn is being threshed have the busiest time of all, for in their hands lies the responsibility for the feeding of the whole company. Sometimes a lunch has to be prepared, but always there is a tea meal, and when twenty or thirty people have to be fed the preparation alone takes some time. Each different district has its own way of arranging things, and in some places it is customary for the workers to be called into the kitchen in relays until everyone has been served, while in other places no one is fed until the work is finished-or until there is a break-and then the whole company sits down together.

Sociability

The latter way lends more of a social atmosphere to the occasion, but it also means more work for the housewife and her assistants, for not every kitchen table can hold twenty at a time. Two tables are usually placed together, and more than the everyday amount of dishes and cutlery has to be looked for. If a lunch has to be prepared a really big pot of soup, followed by meat and potatoes and a cold sweet, needs the minimum of cooking and can be partly made on the preceding day.”

In the 1920s a number of the local newspapers, especially in the north-east and north, reported the erection of new threshing mills on a number of farms as farmers up dated their machinery or moved from using the travelling threshing mill to their own ones.

The erection of this plant was a significant occasion. It marked the introduction of new technology, a substantial investment into the farm and its activities as well as a change in the management of the processing of the grain crop. Farms generally marked this occasion with a social event in which neighbours and others were invited to partake in food and drink, and a congenial evening of activities. They also got to see the new mill at work. The feeding of the first sheaf into the mill was at some farms seen to be an important event. That task was sometimes given to a special member on the farm; it could be a long-standing farm servant or a past tenant.

The accounts in the newspapers provide varying amounts of information about the new mills. Sometimes they record the names of the maker of the mill and the mode of power for the mill (water, engine or tractor).

The following are short accounts from newspapers that record the introduction of new threshing mills onto farms in the north and north east of Scotland:

“Trial of new threshing mill at Cookney (Aberdeen press and journal, 14 January 1921)

A new threshing mill, driven by water, underwent its trials on Saturday at Monquich, Cookney.

A large number of farmers from the surrounding districts were present, and expressed great satisfaction with the superior way in which the oats were dressed ready for the market.

The company were afterwards entertained by Mr and Mrs King.”

“New threshing mill for Fordyce (Aberdeen press and journal, 8 February 1921)

Mr Wilson, Stripeside, Fordyce, who recently installed a new high-speed threshing mill driven by a 6hp oil engine, had a trail of the plant on Friday afternoon in presence of a large number of neighbours and other friends in the district. The thresher, which is furnished with up-to-date equipment for the speedy handling of the grain as it issues from the mill, gave entire satisfaction to all the agriculturists present. The company thereafter were entertained by Mr and Mrs Wilson, when several of those present gave songs and recitations.

Before the company separated, Mr Wilson was congratulated on his enterprise in having such a complete and compact machine installed on his farm.”

“Threshing mill display (Northern chronicle and general advertiser for the North of Scotland, 13 April 1921)

New plant at Inverness farm

An interesting display by the Crichton threshing-mill plant, which has been introduced at Dell of Inshes, Inverness, by Mr Wm Macallister, was witnessed on Wednesday afternoon by a large and representative assemblage of farmers and others from the surrounding districts. Within the last few months a number of the mills have been erected on farms in the Lothians and other parts of the South, and over a dozen have also been introduced on various holdings in the North. On the day previous to the installation at Dell of Inshes, a new mill and engine were started at the farm of Weston in the Black Isle, in presence of a large number of farmers.

The new mill at Dell of Insches, which is erected within the steading, is driven by a Tangye oil engine. The work is carried on smoothly and with speed, and the advantages of the new plant were clearly demonstrated. The plant, which gave evidence of being excellently designed, is fitted with his high speed drum, barley awner, double dressers, straw carriers, and chaff blowers. There is a successful arrangement whereby the chaff is delivered into the cattle courts, a distance of sixty-five feet from the mill. At Wednesday’s demonstration a capital sample of grain was being threshed at the rate of eight quarters per hour. Mr James Crichton, Strichen Engineering Works, Strichen, the sole maker of the plant, was present at the display. Mr Crichton was complimented on the excellence of his design, and the superior finish of the workmanship. The plant was supplied by Messrs ferries & Coy, motor engineers, Inverness, who have been appointed sole agents in the North for Mr Crichton. The installation was carried out under the personal direction of Mr Ferries.

Mr R. Gordon, Wester Inshes, proposed the health of their popular proprietor, Mr R. L. Mackintosh of Insches, who, he said, manifested a keen interest in all improvements on his estate, and was also much interested in his tenantry farming on up-to-date lines (applause).

The toast was cordially pledged.

Mr Alexander Munro, Leanach, said they all regretted the absence of Mr William Macallister, the enterprising tenant, who had had to go South. They were much indebted to Mr Macallister for his kindness in inviting them to witness that afternoon’s excellent demonstration, and he asked the company to pledge his good health-(applause)

The toast was heartily pledged.

On the call of Mr Johnston, Braeton of Leys, a vote of thanks was accorded Mr Crichton, who, in reply, expressed his hearty thanks to the company. On the call of Mr Maclennan, Balmachree, a similar compliment was awarded Mr Ferries, who made complete arrangements for the demonstration.”

“Threshing mill for Knockando Farm (Aberdeen press and journal, 26 January 1923)

Within the last two or three years a number of farmers in Knockando parish have invested in threshing mills. Mr Peter Hepburn, Bogroy, Elchies, has now installed one, and on Wednesday afternoon, he invited a few neighbours to see it at work. The mill is “The Smallholder”. It is driven by a six horse-power oil engine, manufactured in USA. The mill is capable of threshing about four quarters of oats per hour, and on Wednesday’s trials gave every satisfaction.

The company were afterwards hospitably entertained by Mr and Mrs Hepburn, jun.”

“New threshing mill at Blairs (Aberdeen press and journal, 22 December 1928)

Mr Charles Shaw, Maidenfold, Blairs, Maryculter, who recently got part of his steading burned including his threshing mill, has installed a new and up-to-date threshing mill, The mill has a 36-inch high speed drum, double dressing fans, sizer, awner, and screen. It is capable of threshing and dealing with both barley and oats, As the grain comes from the mill it is delivered into bags.”

On Wednesday Mr Shaw invited a number of friends and neighbours to see the mill set a-going. It was thoroughly run and tested, and did very fine work. The quantity got per hour was over fifteen quarters. The dressing was all that could be looked for, The corn on being weighed, just touched 46lbs per bushel. The mill was supplied by Alex Milne and Sons, engineers and millwrights, Joppa Lane, Aberdeen.

At the end of the test the company sat down to a sumptuous spread provided by Miss Shaw. Dr Cronin, DD, Rector of Blairs College, and proprietor of Maidenfold, occupied the chair. The chairman and Mr Robert P. Collie of Cowford, thanked Mr Shaw and family for their invitation and hospitality.”

“New threshing mill (Mearns leader, 20 September 1929)

At Corntulloch, on the Glen Tanar estate, tenanted by Mr John Cameron, there has just been installed by Messrs Garvie, Innes and Scott, Aberdeen a high speed threshing mill, driven by a Blackstone petrol engine of 3hp, supplied by Messrs Reid and Leys, Aberdeen. To the inauguration of the new plant, neighbouring farmers and friends were invited, and the demonstration proved eminently satisfactory. The company were hospitably entertained by Mrs Cameron. On the call of Mr Walker, schoolhouse, the healths of Mr and Mrs Cameron and family were duly pledged, the Rev L L L Cameron, Dufftown replying, whilst Mr Duncan, Dee-Castle, gave the toast of the firms which installed the machinery, when their representatives, Messrs Reid and Innes responded with song and story, a happy social hour was spent.”

Adverts for displenishing sales are a useful source of evidence to see what implements and machines were used on particular farms at a specific point in time. They may include implements and machines that had been used for decades as well as newer ones and the latest technologies. They can show the preference of particular farmers for certain makers and makes of machinery as well. They can also be used to show how widespread some implements and machines were, especially if they were more specialised.

By the early 1950s mechanisation was a key word on Scottish farms. The horse era was giving way to the tractor era and on some farms both kinds of power were used, sometimes for specific tasks. With labour shortages both of full-time and seasonal and casual workers, there was a push to start to find more mechanised ways to deal with the handling, harvesting and processing of crops.

The following selection of adverts from the Strathearn herald from 1954 to 1956 show the implements and machines on a small number of farms in 1954. They show widespread mechanisation with up-to-date implements and machines to undertake a wide variety of tasks from ploughing, sowing, cultivation, management, harvesting and processing of crops.

Implements and machines from key makers were noted. They included names such as Sellar of Huntly and Alloa, Newlands of Linlithgow and William Dickie of East Kilbride. English and north-American names were also represented for some of the implements and machines. They included well-known names associated with particular products such as Bamford of Uttoxeter (for mowers) and Massey Harris for corn drills and binders). At some farms there was a preference for particular makers.

The farms were using tractor power through Fordson tractors. There were also a number of new or nearly new implements and machines that were available at the sales.

“Nether Braco, Braco (Mr Thomson) (Strathearn herald, 13 November 1954)

Implements

Standard Fordson tractor (spade lugs), Newlands toolbar, tractor sweep, Massey-Harris binder, Massey-Harris corn drill, Sellar manure barrow, Bamford mower, Dickie swathe turner, horse fork, hay slipe, turnip barrow, potato digger, pair wheels and axle, double-furrow plough; 3 carts (1 R.T.). 2 Dux 96 ploughs, drill plough, drill harrows, drill grubbers, horse harrows, 5-leaf tractor harrows, 3-barrel roller, chain harrows, rig marker, drilling trees, plough trees, turnip slicer, weighing machine and weights, Lister churn, Ceresan mixer, sack barrow, byre barrow, potato riddle, Fordson pulley, 250 gall tank, oil drum, paraffin drums, anvil, 3 henhouses, ladders, 15ft cover, fireclay troughs, corn bin, tin Ceresan, rat proof netting (new), netting, stack props, bull blinders, horse harness, and all the usual barn, byre, stable and dairy utensils.

Several articles of household furniture.”

“Tomperran, Comrie (from Strathearn herald, 18 June 1955)

Implements

Fordson Major diesel tractor, only 3 months old, with hydraulic lift, licensed to end of the year; H. M. mower with power take-off; M.H. 6ft binder; two tractor cultivators for Major Tractor; tool bar with three furrow plough for Major tractor; tractor transport box; tractor tipper trailer; hay bogey R. T. with harvest flaks; coup cart R. T. fitted for tractor; Ransome D. F. plough; set harrows with iron trees and transport; set saddle harrows; hay sweep; turnip sowing machine fitted for tractor; three barrel metal roller fitted for tractor; horse rake for tractor; International grain drill (15 spout); Nicholson manure distributor; Tullos manure distributor (new); Allan potato digger; potato dumper; turnip slicer; grindstone on iron stand; electric paint sprayer; steam boiler and chest; two wheel barrows; six rolls barb wire (new); quantity netting, 2 in x 3ft 6 in; three jerry cans; bang chains; wire strainer; wooden doors; two tractor jacks; three stack ladders’ knife rest; six hen coops (wooden); guddle and mell and a few barn and byre utensils; Railton motor van.

The implements are all in very good order and well worthy the attention of those in quest of such.”

Easterton, Blackford (Mr McEwan) (from Strathearn herald, 17 November 1956)

Implements

1954 Ferguson diesel tractor, 2 Fordson tractors, Ferguson ridger, Sellar D.F. plough. Pierce turnip sower (new), 3 Massey-Harris binders, hay mower, potato digger, 2 corn drills, grass seed sower, set tractor harrows (as new), set discs, 2 cultivators, 2 trailing ploughs, tractor trailer, 2 box carts (1 for tractor), corn cart, corn cart body, 2 rollers, 2 roller barrels (new), saddle harrows, light harrows, hay rake, hay turner, Ogle hay fork, manure sower, barn fanners, chopper, weighing machine (tested), 3 ladders, fire extinguisher, 2 fireclay troughs, quantity harness, 2 corn chests, cattle cage, 7 henhouses, warm floored brooder, 2 sack barrows, shafts and pulleys, binder canvasses, potato baskets, oil drums (250, 120 and 50 galls), bellows, anvil, 2 R.T. barrows, stakes, nets, churn, 2 blow lamps, corn sacks, vice, corrugated iron, circular saw, stack covers, 2 turnip slicers, horse ploughs, drill ploughs, scythes, 40 gall drum diesel oil, belting, incubator; and all the usual barn, byre and stable utensils, etc, Nissen hut 30ft x 16ft (if note previously sold), few articles of household furniture, 5 skeps bees, and equipment.”

By 1905 Wright Brothers of the Boyne Mills, Portsoy, made reapers, drillers and threshing mills. It was their threshing mills, and as a millwright that the company was especially renowned. By the late 1940s the business was undergoing significant changes. In early 1948 steps were being taken to incorporate it to become a company limited by guarantee; the company received its certificate of incorporation to become Wright Brothers (Boyne Mills) Ltd. The company continued in business until 1955. On 7 February the company passed an extraordinary resolution to voluntarily wind up the company. Its final winding up meeting was held on 17 October 1956.

One of the key figures in the business was William Wright. He died in 1902 at the age of sixty years of age. His obituary was recorded in a number of the local Banffshire newspapers. They provide information about his life and the development of his millwrighting work:

“Death of Mr William Wright, Boyne Mills (from Banffshire reporter of 29 January 1902)

After a lingering illness, Mr Wm Wright, millwright, Boyne Mills, near Portsoy, died on Monday at noon, at the age of sixty years. The announcement of Mr Wright’s death will be received with deep regret by many friends over a wide area. Mr Wright, who belonged to Alehouseburn, Ord, learned the trade of a millwright. When only twenty-three years of age he began the construction of mills on his own account. His business soon became very successful. He put into his mills the best that good workmanship could do, and soon they became exceedingly popular with farmers, and are to be found on numerous farms in the counties of Banff and Aberdeen, and the North generally. For twelve years he carried on business at Alehouseburn; for fully twelve years he was at Quarry Croft, Ord; and for the past twelve and a half years he had been at the Boyne Mills. At the Boyne he also engaged in the more general business of a joiner. His last important contract was the joiner work of the new United Free Church at Cullen. He also did the carpenter work of the Hay Memorial Hall, Cornhill, and of several large houses in Banff. Mr Wright, was a member of the East U.F. Church, Portsoy, and took a great interest in evangelistic work. He was held in high esteem. Mr Wright, is survived by his widow and a family of eight, for whom sincere sympathy is felt in their sore bereavement. The funeral takes place on Thursday to Boyndie Churchyard.”

“The late Mr William Wright (from Banffshire recorder, 5 February 1902)

In the East United Free Church, Portsoy, on Sunday forenoon, the Rev Wm Simmers referred to the late Mr William Wright, Boyne Mills. He said-Since last Lord’s day the head of a family connected with this church has been called away from much suffering, patiently and bravely borne, and has been carried home to rest and peace. He had a deathbed of peculiar pain, endured without despondency and without complaint. He had the peace of God which passeth all understanding, keeping his heart and mind, and the presence of Christ enabled him to bear his pain. Wm Wright was all along a man of steady and persevering nature, and from his early years he possessed Christian principles which strengthened him for life’s duty. Possessing skills alike of head and hands, he entered a line of business which called for the exercise of both, and he filled his place in life faithfully to the end. His intelligence gave him places in the School Board and parish Council of his parish, and he acted so as to be useful and respected in both. His heart was in evangelistic work, and he delighted in the gospel of Christ and in the salvation of the lost and perishing. His faith was steadfast to the end. Now his day is over, and his work is done. We regret his loss, and deeply, very deeply, do we sympathise with his widow and sorrowing family, over whom the cloud of sorrow has rested so darkly and so long.”

Displenishing sales provide an insight into the implements and machines that were being used on a farm when the tenant was leaving a particular farm. They can show the type of agriculture practiced as well as the range of implements and machines used. They can also show whether the Farm was using new and innovative ones or were relying on older ones.

By the second half of the 1960s farms were using a wide range of machines from makers in Scotland, across Britain, and Europe. Machines from the latter location were becoming were being used in increasing numbers. They included makers such as Claas and Vicon.

The implements and machines from some of the Scottish makers were well known and established for many decades: Alexander Jack & Sons, Maybole, Alexander Newlands & Sons, George Sellar & Son, Alex Ballach & Son and Boswells of Blairgowrie. There were others that were less well-known such as James F. Ogg. Bridge of Muchalls, Stonehaven.

The following are extracts from displenishing sale notices in central Scotland. They note the wide range of implements and machines used and some of their makers. They provide an interesting insight into what was being used on some farms:

“Wester Dechmont Farm, Uphall (from West Lothian courier, 27 October 1967)

Saturday, 4th November, 10:30am

J. & J. Marshall Ltd are favoured with instructions from Wm Russell Esq, whose farm has been acquired for the Livingston New Town to sell:-

Claas matador tanker 10ft combine (1965), New Holland “68” super baler, 1960 diesel land-rover, 2 M.F. tractors (1961-63), 1962 Fordson major super tractor, 4 trailers-2 hyd, 1 with silage capes, Ferguson, Newlands and Sellars D.F. ploughs, Ransome 3F plough, Nicholson & Bentall discs, D.B. S.T. cultivator, Ferguson weeders, 2 sets 4-L harrows, 5-L harrow tree, Ogg spring loaded ridger, M.F. “732” – 15 row combine seeder, Vicon manure spinner, Jack triplex manure sower, Ferguson sprayer, Wallace dung spreader, Mil-Loader with dung graip and scoop, Elder G.S. barrow, Stanhay precision seeder, turnip barrow, 3 gang rollers, transport box, hurricane forage harvester, Int P. D. mower, Bamford mower, Lister Blackstone tractor hay rake, swath turner, New Holland crimper, Bamford wuffler, Perry bale loader, bale sledge, bale/sack elevator, Wallace potato planter (Kramer patent), Tamkin potato digger, Balloch scarifier, Boswell turnip shawer, Henderson EL turnip slicer, turnip slicer, Bentall bruiser, fanners, grain hygrometer, 5 h.p. El, motor, Woolley in bin grain dryer with 4 x 35 ton Crittal storage bins, 3 conveyors and 2 elevators, Boby unicleener, tub steel cattle crush, 13 galv cattle feeding troughs, 2 field sheep hay hecks, 8 sheep bakies, 20 F.C. troughs, 5 hay hecks, 3 galv bins, 2 meet coolers (R.T.), Geest barrow, 3 wheelbarrows, sack barrow, saw bench, Black & Decker El. Drill and stand, compressor, Wolseley El clipper, Alum ext. ladder, weighs and weights, 400 sacks, 350 and 250 gal diesel tanks, par. Tank, 6 fire extinguishers, usual farm hand tools etc.

Alfa Laval M.M. piping, El motor and pump, 3 units, 12 iron and wooden field gates, 10 rolls sheep netting, barbed and plain wire, 100 stobs, 100 sleepers off wood, scrap metal.

The plant and implements offered include many practically new items and worthy buyers’ attention.

The Farm lies on the main Glasgow/Edinburgh A8 road near Bangour Hospital.”

“Gateside, Linlithgow (for Mr A. C. Kerr) on Friday, 22nd December at 1:00pm.

2 Fordson super major tractors, Fordson dexta tractor, Case tractor, 1 hyd and 2 rigid trailers, 1-, 2-, and 3-furrow ploughs, rotovator, set discs, 2 sets harrows, grass seed harrows, steerage hoe, scarifier, dung spreader, 2 Ransome tool bars, M.H. combine drill, 4-drill Cambridge roller, single roller, weeder, Shanks precision seeder, 2 manure distributors, Ransome cropmaster sprayer, 2 reapers, Vicon Lely tedder, McCormick Internat. Baler, binder, threshing mill, Viking sugar beet harvester, potato pit coverer, Cooch potato sorter, sack elevator, bruiser, cattle crush, 3 fuel tanks, sack barrows, ladders, 2 poultry houses, 2000 bales hay, quantity straw, 30 cwts S.A.I. p[lant food.

From a neighbour- 3 M.F. “35” and Dexta tractors, 4 tractor trailers, 3 Ferguson 2- and 3-furrow ploughs, Ferguson cultivator, Ferguson ridgers, harrows, 2 sets gang rollers, discs, M.H. 15-row seeder, dung spreader, potato digger, buck rake, Lister elevator.

Lawrie & Symington Ltd, Auctioneers, Lanark. (West Lothian courier, 15 November 1968)”

“Over Quarter Farm, Yieldshields, Carluke (from West Lothian courier, 20 June 1969)

Saturday, 28th June 11am

J. and J. Marshall Ltd are favoured with instructions from Messrs T. and R. Moffat to sell: D.B. 880 Implematic tractor 91964), pulley, D.B. Albion dung spreader, Cruikshanks S.F. plough, D.B. D.F. plough, 3 gang rollers, 4-1 harrows, Bamlett Mk 2 P.D. mower, Lister wuffler, buck rake, rick lifter, box cart, meat cooler, 3 raw barrow, wheel barrow, sack barrow, weighs and weights, sack cover, 2 vices, fire ext and refills, 4 ladders (1 aluminium), stone water horse trough, 5 P.C. troughs, Lister motor, 200 gal diesel tank, M.M. unit, carrying pail, wash-up bin, draining tiles, 50 stobs, poles, props, odd wood etc, usual hand tools.

Hot Point washing machine, Creda Super 4 electric cooker, surplus furniture etc.

The farm lies at Yieldshields village.”

One of the well known implement and machine makers in Perthshire was J. Bisset & Sons, Marlee, then Greenback, Blairgowrie.

The company traded from at least 1867 until the mid 1960s. On 16 June 1966 the Directors passed a resolution to voluntarily wind up the company; it was dissolved on 20 November 1970. The company was noted for its potato diggers as well as its reaping machines and binders.

In 1877 the company opened a new implement works. The building of these was reported in the local newspapers at that time. Another one was recorded published in the Dundee courier of 26 August 1892. It is one of the few accounts of the implement works, and of an implement maker. It reads:

“Local implement makers

As makers of agricultural implements of all kinds of the firm of Messrs J. Bisset & Sons, Blairgowrie, has attained a reputation amongst farmers in Scotland and in many parts of England that few firms can excel. It is now almost half a century since the works at Blairgowrie were inaugurated. Started on a comparatively small scale, they have now assumed such great proportions as to cover a great extent of ground. Yesterday one of our representatives called upon Mr T. Bisset, the principal partner of the firm, and stated his desire to have a look through the works. He was courteously received by that gentleman, who willingly agreed to his request. Visiting first of all the moulding department, which is situated in the north wing, our reporter was favoured with an explanation of the process if casting. Several men were hard at work preparing moulds of various kinds for the numerous machines for the manufacture of which the Messrs Bisset are so famed, and the great care and neatness that was manifested in the preparation of these was of a most interesting description. In reply to a question as to the nature of the metal used in making the casting, Mr Bisset informed the reporter that the kind used by his firm was that which combined lightness with strength, and that only the best brands of cast-iron were used for the ordinary castings and ironwork of the machines produced from the works. Our representative here ventured to remark that there were so many small wheels and other things connected with reaping, mowing, and binding machines that an infinite amount of work was involved in the moulding of these. He was informed, however, that the great bulk of the smaller castings prepared from superior malleable iron were made in Derby. Proceeding to the larger and more important part of the premises, which is situated in the very heart of the works, Mr Bisset explained the various machines in operation. Most of these were of the newest design, and were driven by a large and powerful horizontal steam engine. It is in this department that the finest and most exacting work is done, for in the grinding of the many intricate parts of reaping and other agricultural machines the greatest care must be taken, as the difference of the minutest nature in the construction of a machine may interfere with its working. One machine in particular is especially worthy of mention. It consists of two small wheels, driven by means of a pulley and belts, and was designed by Mr Bisset. On this the teeth of reaping machines are ground to a nicety. Another of Mr Bisset’s inventions is a simple-looking but ingenious multiple drilling machine, the effect of which is not only labour saving, but entails greater accuracy. It is upon this that the knife-boards are drilled. Two of these being placed upon the table are bored with twenty-three holes and afterwards moved along a short distance and drilled again in a similar manner, the work of boring ninety-two holes occupying only three minutes. Other drilling machines for similar plates are also kept constantly in operation by a number of men. The steam hammers and other machines are of the newest design, and are most effective in their working.

The portion of the works in which the wooden parts of the machines are made is also very interesting. Numerous planing, moulding, and other machines are here in operation, and reduce the work of the joiners to a minimum. Quite close to this part is situated a shed in which the machines are fitted up. We recently published a description of the newest invention of the firm-viz, the Bisset chain binder-and the ingenuity which has been displayed by its inventors certainly commends it to agriculturists. In concluding a necessarily brief description of the works, we may simply remark that some idea may be formed of the great demand there is on the reaping and binding machines produced by Messrs J. Bisset & Sons from the fact that firm supply to their customers innumerable tons of manilla twine annually.”

One of the most important makers in Aberdeen and the north-east was Robert Garvie of Hardgate Works, Aberdeen. He opened a new premises in December 1894. The Aberdeen press and journal was pleased to record the opening of the new ironworks. On 1 December it reported:

“It is always a pleasure to note the progress and development of local industry, and it affords us much satisfaction to congratulate Mr Robert G. Garvie on the opening of his new and extensive agricultural implement works in Hardgate. Mr Garvie is a member of a family that has shown a great deal of enterprise in industrial affairs in Aberdeen, and in his new undertaking he will have the heartiest good wishes for success, because success for him means the benefit of his employees and the advantage of the community as a whole. There is no reason why the agricultural implements used by our farmers should not be largely produced at home, where there are the skill, the capital, and the material necessary, and the starting of Mr Garvie’s new works may be accepted as an indication that fewer orders for farm machinery will find their way to Canada and the States. There is nothing narrow or unduly selfish in this view. We are all for home manufacture when it can be had as cheaply, and of as good quality as outside products, and a community that does not act on that principle certainly neglected one of the first considerations of self-preservation. The patriotic desire to promote local interests as a primary duty does not necessarily imply a blind and unreasoning exclusiveness. What we contend for is that where we find local enterprise carrying on a branch of industry giving large employment to labour, and thus contributing to the general prosperity, it has an undoubted claim to the support and encouragement of the locality. This we have no doubt will be the case with Mr Garvie’s new undertaking; but he will also have a wider sphere of operations than the immediate district of Aberdeen. The new works were agreeably inaugurated last night by a pleasant social gathering of the workers and their friends, and Mr Garvie, who presided, referred with justifiable gratification to the fact that within the space of about nine months the fine block of industrial buildings had risen up in the place that had been occupied by a number of old tumble-down dwellings. Thus Aberdeen advances in commerce and industry, and thus may it ever continue to flourish-by the enterprise and skill of its sons.”

So what were the Hardgate Agricultural Implement Works like?

“The spacious new works in Hardgate, the property of Mr Robert G. Garvie, agricultural implement manufacturer, have now been completed, and all the departments are in operation, between 80 and 90 men employed. The fact that it has been found necessary to provide an establishment on so large a scale would seem to point to the growing importance of the manufacture of agricultural implements as an industry in the north-east of Scotland. Fully an acre and a half of ground has been taken off in a very convenient site on the south part of Hardgate, and the buildings that have been erected are admirably adapted for their purpose. The frontage to the street is constructed of granite, and has a substantial though plain appearance. The offices &c, are situated here, while the various departments of the manufactory stretch back to the west. The principal entrance is from Hardgate, at the north-east end of the feu.

There is a wide covered-in gateway, and the passage leads along the northern boundary to a large yard on the extreme west. At the entrance a six-ton steelyard is laid down, the register being taken in a comfortably-appointed forwarding office. A stair leads from this apartment to the suite of offices on the floor above, but before describing these, it is to be noted that, adjoining the forwarding office, and running for 70 feet parallel with the street are a number of stores, from which doors open into the sections of the works occupied by the various classes of employees. From this section access is also found to a large store-room for binders, reapers, and traction engines. The faces are very convenient and well lighted, the windows facing Hardgate. They are four in number. One is occupied by draughtsmen, another by clerks, another is a private room for the use of Mr Garvie, and the remaining room will also be utilised in connection with the commercial department. These rooms are about 21 feet by 15 feet by 10 feet, and are lined with varnished pitchmen. Drawings of various implements relieve the walls; office furniture of a substantial make is provided; an arrangement of speaking tubes is in use; and the gas fittings throughout are of the most modern description. The lobby which connects the rooms is pierced with windows in such a way as to allow an unobstructed view of the whole of the interior of the works. At the south end the carrier opens into the pattern shop, which measures 40 feet by 27 feet by 10 feet and above there is a lumber loft of considerable dimensions. This exhausts the accommodation on the east side. Passing down a stair from the pattern department the visitor finds himself in the section occupied by the staff of joiners. This section is one of three, all of which lie east and west, and each of which measures 140 feet by 45 feet-the ridge springing some 30 feet from the level of the ground, and the eaves 15 feet. The structure is of corrugated iron and glass, and the couples are made of malleable iron, painted in a light blue colour, the framework has a pleasing appearance, and the effect is equally attractive when the place is illuminated by the large number of sun gaslights which have been erected. The joiners’ department is different from the other two in respect that it has a wooden flooring, and in it the machinery is driven from below. This last arrangement is a feature. Roof shafting, when in constant use, causes a vibration which, in course of time, proves very damaging to a building, and to obviate this an ingenious arrangement has been introduced by which the walls and roof are left untouched, the motive power being conveyed from a sunk floor.

The middle section is where the fitters are employed. An extensive plant has been laid down for the manufacture of specialities in agricultural implements, and to facilitate the work there is a five-ton travelling came, which can be brought into requisition in any part of the shop. It is at the east end of this section that the engine room is situated. The room is neatly built of wood and glass, the engine itself being of about 20 horse power, and constructed on the compound principle. Below the engine room there is a concrete cistern of 24 feet by 12 feet for collecting the rain water from the roof, and this water, augmented when occasion demands from the Corporation mains, supplies the boiler and the cooling tanks. A stone wall separates the fitting department from that used by the smiths, where there are no fewer than nine furnaces. Specially worthy of notice among the machinery in use here is a self-acting five cwt steam hammer. A portion of the accommodation is partitioned off, and utilised for the storage of iron. The foreman of the works has had fitted up for his use an office, from which all parts of the establishment are equally accessible. To minimise the risk of fire as much as possible, a site for the boiler-house has been found at a considerable distance from any of the other buildings. The boiler is 12 feet by 6; works at 100lbs pressure; and is provided with an apparatus for economising fuel. Pipes covered with asbestos and waterproof carry the steam to the engine room, and the smoke passes off the furnace by a stalk about 100 feet in height The other outdoor premises comprise two sheds, one 90 feet by 30 feet, for seasoning wood, and the other 60 feet by 20 feet, for the storage of wood that has been prepared. In the yard there is also a three-ton crane. What strikes the visitor as he walks through the extensive premises is the completeness with which every detail has been carried out. Nothing has been left undone that is likely to facilitate the work undertaken, and the hope may be expressed that before long it will be found necessary to occupy the remaining portion of the feu with extended buildings.”

How much did it cost to thresh grain with the steam mill? An article in the Aberdeen press and journal of 28 March 1913 set out how much it cost to thresh grain with the steam mill. It sets this out as an average or “as a rule”. The calculation was made for “manpower”, coals and hire of the threshing plant. The article states:

“Steam mill threshing

Cost per hour to farmers

Travelling steam-mills are yet largely used in many parts of the country, particularly among the smaller farms where oil engines are less common than on the well-equipped big farms. There are various points to attend to on threshing day, and the farmer is himself often the busiest man “aboot the toon” in seeing that all goes well. The number of men employed in threshing varies with the machines, and the nature of the stackyard arrangements, etc. Taking an ordinary traction-engine and portable mill, we may expect from 80 to 100 or even 120 quarters of oats a day, in an average season. Unfortunately the pour of grain falls very far short of these figures most ways this season. The work will be accomplished by a varying force according to the position of the machine, and the arrangement of the stacks, distance from granary, etc. As a rule, for a day’s threshing the following number of men are required:-Three men pitching sheaves, two lads cutting bands, one man feeding, two men attending to sacks, weighing etc. one man at engine, one boy carrying water, two boys at chaff and covings, six men at straw stack (an elevator being used). In addition to these there will be needed a man at odd jobs, and a variable force of horses and carts to take the corn to the barn, or mayhap, when within easy reach, to the railway station.

If we restrict ourselves to the actual work of threshing, the cost may be approximately arrived at from the above statement. For the feeder and engine attendant, however, no charge need be entered, their wages being inclusive with hire of threshing plant.

11 men at 3s £1 13 0

5 boys at 2s £0 10 0

Coals, 6 to 10 cwt (say) £0 12 0

Hire of plant, 10 hours at 4d £2 0 0. Total – £4 15 0.

Other items, including refreshment, etc, would cost about £1 more. Thus we see that a day’s thresh (with steam-mill) costs practically about 11s 6d every hour the mill is running. The cost per quarter, etc, may be easily ascertained by a little calculation based on these figures.”

Agricultural shows, including the county agricultural shows, are an important forum for showing what implements and machines were available to the agriculturists in a district – and beyond. County and regional newspapers often listed in their columns the main exhibitors and the key implements and machines that were exhibited. This can sometimes be one of the main sources of evidence for understanding what makers were making and selling and what businesses were operating in an area.

The Perthshire advertiser was a local newspaper that provided extensive reports of what was going on at the Perth Show. On 31 July 1929 it provided an extensive account of what was to be found. This is worth quoting for the detail that it provides on the activities of the business at that Show:

“Stands at Perth Show

Barclay, Ross & Hutchison, Aberdeen

Messrs Barclay, Ross & Hutchinson, Ltd, 67-71 Green, Aberdeen, who have an important branch at Station Buildings, Perth, are exhibiting an interesting collection. For over half a century this firm has been noted for the excellence of its threshing and barn machinery, and the variety of its products will be a source of fascination. The firm is agent for Austin tractors of the latest 3-speed design, and also for Rushton tractors, having a large selection of Lister and Ruston Hornsby engines. They will show power turnip-cutters of their own manufacture.

Cadogan (Perth) Ltd, Perth

This firm of motor-body builders has required a fine reputation for workmanship of a high standard in their productions. Bodies of all kinds and sizes are constructed.

Frew & Co. Ltd, Perth

Among the Scottish Ford Dealers, represented are Messrs Frew & Co., Ltd, 14-18 Princes Street, Perth; Harper & Sons, Blairgowrie, and McKercher, Aberfeldy, who have on view one of the excellent Fordson tractors produced by the firm. There is a complete range of Ford motor vehicles and tractors, with implements to work along with the tractor.

Garvie & Syme, Perth

For variety and completeness of wares, few ironmonger forms can compare with Messrs Garvie & Syme. The stock ranges, tools, oils, paints, cutlery, explosives, and in fact everything imaginable. They are agents for “Good Housekeeping” approved appliances, and are at all times glad to give demonstrations of the working of refrigerators by gas or electricity.

Wm Hume & Co., Perth

Another firm of ironmongers with an ever-increasing trade, Messrs Wm Hume & Co. Ltd, stock every kind of farm implement and machinery.

Charles Brand, Dundee

Wood, iron and machinery, slater, builder and contractor, Mr Charles Brand has branches in Dundee, Glasgow, and Aberdeen. Every species of building material is stocked and a speciality is made of sectional huts, suitable for halls, garages, &c. The firm does a large business in demolitions of buildings of any size, and machinery, and plant and buys quantities of scrap metal.

Alexander Lindsay, Perth

Mr Alexander Lindsay, wholesale ironmonger, farm and estate furnisher, 71-73 South Street, Perth, will have on Stand no. 21 a fine display of farm requisites. During its comparatively short existence the business has established a very wide connection among the Perthshire farming community, a connection that is daily increasing. The exhibits will include binder twine and sculls, all brands of oil for different engines and cars, wire fencing, dairy requisites, poultry appliances, etc.

James Scott & Co., Perth

On this stand will be shown a selection of electric appliances. The firm deals very extensively in electric lighting plants for farms and country houses and are experts in electric refrigerators. “Allscott” radio sets and combined radio and gramophone cabinets are a speciality in which Messrs James Scott & Co., have built up an enviable and widely-known reputation.

George Sellar & Son, Ltd, Huntly and Alloa

This well-known Scottish firm of agricultural engineers has a reputation second to none in the country. Their Sellar ploughs and farm implements generally have maintained a high standard for many years. This, too, with an economy of cost, which, in these hard times, is a consideration to everyone. At their stand Messrs Sellar will have on view a wide range of their products which will no doubt be closely scanned during the show.

Harvie & McKenzie, Perth

At stand no. 17 will be shown various domestic and farm implements. Lister separators, churns and other dairy appliances are a prominent feature with Messrs Harvey & McKenzie, while they also deal extensively in domestic stoves and heaters, Lip-Vac Vacuum flask and all other kinds of hardware. For the farm they carry a stock of stack covers, sheep dips, steel-ribbed potato sculls, and wire netting, and corrugated iron of various sizes and makes.

A. Johnstone & Sons, Perth

Cartwrights, motor body builders and general blacksmiths, Messrs A. Johnstone & Sons are qualified to give expert advice on all problems dealing with transport and transporting machinery. They have long and intimate experience and are at all times willing to put this at the disposal of agriculturists and others.”

Adverts for displenishing sales are a useful source of evidence to see what implements and machines were used on particular farms at a specific point in time. They may include implements and machines that had been used for decades as well as newer ones and the latest technologies. They can show the preference of particular farmers for certain makers and makes of machinery as well. They can also be used to show how widespread some implements and machines were, especially if they were more specialised.

The following selection of adverts from a number of newspapers across Scotland shows the implements and machines on a small number of farms in 1965. They show widespread mechanisation with up-to-date implements and machines to undertake a wide variety of tasks from ploughing, sowing, cultivation, management, harvesting and processing of crops.

Troves, Elgin (Aberdeen press and journal, 13 April 1965)

Implements

“2 Fordson super major tractors, set of tractor rollers, Nuway grain drier with diesel burner, milk cooler and steamer chest, potato planter, potato harrows, Whitstead potato harvester, Wallace elevator digger, potato dresser, Denning 12-row combine drill machine, turnip sower, turnip hasher, 2 Lundell 60 forage harvester, tractor bodies with silage sides, Samford semi-lift mower, buck rake, green crop loader, hay turner, carrot sprayer, Ransome drill plough, 2 2F Ransome plough, 2F Ransome plough, D.F. trailer plough, 2 Sellar grubbers, 2 cultivators, drill harrows, Massey-Harris disc harrows, set rollers, broadcast, spinner manure spreader, chain harrows, post droppers, motor mower, hammers, chisels, spades, rakes, hoes, binder covers, fencing tools and all usual hand tools. Also-large sheet metal water tank.”

Mill of Lerarney, Torphins (Aberdeen press and journal, 6 November 1965)

“Implements etc

1962 Ferguson T.V.O. tractor, Ferguson pulley, Ferguson cab, Sellar plough, set five harrows and yoke, spring tines on lift, T.S. machine, stook loaders, buck rake, tractor bogey, box cart, snow plough, “Smallholder” hammer mill, 250-gallon paraffin tank, saw bench, belting, broom cutter, wire, scythe, mall and pinch, R.T. barrow, measuring chain, ladders, sacks, rick centres, axle and wheels, five poultry houses, garage 16ft x 9ft approx., keys, hose pipe, scrap, hand tools.”

Pilmuir, Strachan Banchory (Aberdeen press and journal, 6 November 1965)

Implements etc

“1963 Massey-Ferguson 35X tractor, Ferguson T.V.O. tractor, Massey-Ferguson 736 bagger combine (T.V.O. in first-class condition), Sellar B.D.F. double furrow plough, dykeside plough, Ferguson mounted discs, two sets of four iron keyed harrows, S.T. harrows, link harrows, potato harrows, Murray broadcast, Webb manure spreader, set of three stone rollers, Ferguson S.L. cultivator, Symon ridgers, Sellar T.S. machine, Ferguson mower (like new), Newlands buck rake, hay turner, rake, portable trusser, Deering 7ft P. D. binder on rubbers, Ferguson hydraulic tipping cart, coup cart, transport box, Ferguson-Bell potato planter, Ransomes potato digger, hand potato riddle, Ferguson muck loader with scoop, Linton turnip puller, sheep turnip hasher with 11hp engine, cattle crush, cattle and sheep feed troughs, steelyard and weights, two R.T. box barrows, sack barrow, wooden ladders, rick and fencing posts, sleepers, sheep netting, plain, barbed and netting wire, two electric fencers, and the usual selection of minor implements and hand tools, sectional shed 36ftx12ft.”

Contin Mains, Strathpeffer (D. Ross, esq) (North star and farmers’ chronicle, 13 November 1965)

“Implements

Ferguson tractor (diesel), International combine harvester (tanker model), David Brown baler, bale sledge, 2 tractor trailers, 2 double furrow ploughs, single furrow plough, drill plough, cultivator, combine drill seeder, Massey Harris hay turner, hay sweep, dung loader, dung spreader, Ransome cultivator, tractor rollers, potato planter, potato digger, Cooch potato riddle, Webb precision turnip sower, turnip sower, scarifier, manure sower, broadcast sower, tractor rake, set iron harrows, set chain harrows, turnip cutting cart, cattle crush (Bisset), pig weighing machine, barn fan, weighing machine and weights, sheep netting and wire, sheep feed boxes, 2 pig feeders, cattle troughs, sheep net stakes, stack props etc, and the usual barn and stable requisites.

Note-the implements are mostly in new condition, having only been used two or three seasons, and worthy of special attention.”