McCormick No. 181

 

The acreage behind the barn at the farm is the old equipment graveyard.  The McCormick Harvester-Thresher No. 181 was manufactured in 1960 and according to the International Harvester press release: "Combine size really took off with introduction of the giant N0. 181. In its day it was unequaled in capacity.  The 80hp 181 was designed to stand up to the rigors of bigger yields, expanding acreage and larger expectations. The 181 had tremendous internal capacity with a 46 inch separator that could handle a standard of 4 rows and 16 grain platforms."  However that modern machine is outmoded with today's machines.  Who knew that there were on-line bidding wars for No. 181 sales literature?  Wonder what someone who give for the original, used, rusted model No. 181?  We'd probably deliver!

 

The Fortenberry Farm

Hale County, Texas