GLEANER BALDWIN COMBINES NEON SIGN

Gleaner Baldwin Combines Neon Sign

Porcelain Neon Sign - double sided.

Restoration project:

New neon and cleaned.

Amber / Green Neon.

Size: 40 inches wide by 26 inches tall by 8 inches deep.

Manufactured by: Mt. Vernon Neon Sign Company

Manufactured Year: 1948

The History of Gleaner Baldwin Combines

The history of Gleaner Baldwin Combines is a fascinating tale of innovation and leadership in agricultural machinery. Founded in the early 20th century, Gleaner has become synonymous with reliable, high-quality combines that have revolutionized the farming industry.

The story begins with Curtis, Edwin, and Ernest Baldwin, three brothers from Nickerson, Kansas. Driven by a passion for farming and a keen interest in engineering, the Baldwin brothers sought to create a more efficient way to harvest crops. In 1923, they founded the Gleaner Manufacturing Company and introduced the first self-propelled combine harvester, a groundbreaking invention that significantly improved the productivity of farmers.

The name "Gleaner" was inspired by the Biblical concept of gleaning, which means gathering the remnants of a crop after the main harvest. This name was chosen to reflect the machine's efficiency in maximizing crop yield by ensuring that no grain was left behind.

The Baldwin brothers' combine featured several innovative design elements that set it apart from existing machines. Key among these was the use of an all-steel body, which provided durability and reduced the weight of the machine compared to traditional wood-bodied combines. Additionally, the Gleaner combine utilized a unique rasp bar threshing cylinder, which improved the separation and cleaning of grain, thus enhancing the overall efficiency of the harvest.

Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Gleaner Baldwin Combines gained a strong reputation for their durability and performance. Farmers across the United States appreciated the machines for their ability to handle various types of crops and challenging field conditions. The combines were also known for their ease of maintenance, a crucial factor for farmers who needed to keep their equipment running smoothly during the busy harvest season.

In 1955, Gleaner was acquired by the Allis-Chalmers Manufacturing Company, a major player in the agricultural machinery industry. This acquisition brought additional resources and expertise to the Gleaner brand, enabling further innovation and expansion. Allis-Chalmers continued to produce Gleaner combines, integrating advanced technologies and improving the machines' efficiency and reliability.

One of the most notable advancements during this period was the introduction of the rotary combine in the 1970s. The Gleaner N-Series combines featured a revolutionary transverse rotor design, which provided more efficient threshing and separation, as well as increased capacity and reduced grain damage. This innovation solidified Gleaner's position as a leader in the combine harvester market.

The 1980s and 1990s saw further technological enhancements, including the development of advanced electronic controls and monitoring systems. These improvements allowed farmers to optimize the performance of their combines, leading to greater yields and more efficient operations.

In 1990, AGCO Corporation acquired the Gleaner brand as part of its purchase of Deutz-Allis, the successor to Allis-Chalmers. Under AGCO's ownership, Gleaner continued to innovate and expand its product line. The brand introduced new models with improved fuel efficiency, operator comfort, and advanced precision farming technologies.

Today, Gleaner Baldwin Combines are still renowned for their quality and innovation. The company remains committed to providing farmers with reliable and efficient harvesting solutions, ensuring that the legacy of the Baldwin brothers lives on in each new generation of combines.

The history of Gleaner Baldwin Combines is a testament to the power of innovation and the impact of engineering excellence on the agricultural industry. From the early days of the Baldwin brothers' first self-propelled combine to the advanced machines of today, Gleaner has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in crop harvesting, helping farmers around the world achieve greater productivity and success.