1932 9-Ton Log Hauler

Alvin O. Lombard of Waterville, Maine invented and manufactured steam powered, and then later gasoline powered tractors to haul logs. Beginning in 1901, these tractors, known as 'Lombard Log Haulers' revolutionized work in the Maine woods. This was the very first patent of what you know today as the track system normally used in bulldozers, snowmobiles, and half-tracks. This patent for his continuous tread drive precedes the patents later granted to Mr. Best and Mr. Holt. By 1908 he held 25 to 30 patents on continuous tread drive. He sold crucial patents to Caterpillar Corporation after World War I for 60,000. This machine is powered by a 6 cylinder, 100 h.p. engine, capable of hauling 4 to 15 sleds in each train of logs. These Lombard's were used mainly in the Allagash Region for lumbering operations and in construction projects throughout New England. Approximately 83 steamers and 216 gas or diesel tractors were ever made in 35 years of manufacturing. Submitted by Raymond And Paul Breton, from ME