The 1927 Baker 21-75 Steam Traction Engine is a remarkable example of early 20th-century steam-powered machinery, epitomizing the transition from traditional horse-drawn farming and industrial practices to mechanized power in the agricultural and construction sectors.
Baker Manufacturing Company, based in the United States, produced a range of steam engines during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The “21-75” model refers to its engine’s specifications: the 21 represents the nominal horsepower, and the 75 indicates the maximum drawbar horsepower that the engine could exert. These engines were often used in agriculture for plowing, harvesting, and hauling, as well as in construction for moving earth or powering machinery on-site.
The 1927 Baker 21-75 was part of a broader trend toward larger, more powerful traction engines designed to handle the growing demands of mechanized farming. It was equipped with a large firebox and boiler capable of generating significant steam pressure, enabling the engine to haul heavy loads and perform tasks that would have previously required multiple horses or mules. The Baker 21-75 was also built for durability, with a robust design that could withstand the rough conditions of agricultural work.
The Baker 21-75, like many steam engines of its era, was a key tool during the steam era, which lasted from the mid-1800s through the 1930s. These engines had a profound impact on the agricultural industry, increasing productivity and reducing the need for manual labor. As farm and industrial machinery became more powerful and efficient, steam traction engines like the 21-75 were gradually replaced by internal combustion engines in the 1930s and 1940s.
Today, the Baker 21-75 is considered a rare and valuable piece of agricultural history, prized by collectors and museum exhibits for its historical significance and mechanical complexity. Its enduring legacy lies in its contribution to the mechanization of agriculture and industry, marking a key development in the move toward modern farming practices.
