International Harvester’s first tractor has Ohio roots

By Fred Hendricks, OCJ Field reporter

Many people around the world are familiar with the International Harvester Company. However, many may not know Ohio’s tie to the iconic tractor brand. International Harvester Company was formed in 1902. The company traces its roots to Cyrus McCormick who started the McCormick Reaping Company. Although Obed Hussey is credited with the first reaper patent, it was Cyrus McCormick’s enhancements that made the reaper more widely accepted.

At the turn of the century, farm power relied almost entirely on draft animals. Oxen, mules, and especially horses provided the labor, with horses proving the most economical and thus performing many farm tasks. However, working with horses could be nearly as backbreaking as doing the tasks by hand, even if they provided