TRIAL OF W. A. WOOD’S REAPER AND BINDER.

Western Star, Issue 284, 15 February 1879, Page 5

TRIAL OF W. A. WOOD’S REAPER AND BINDER.

On Monday last the farmers of the Western District had an opportunity of a trial of one of W. A. Wood’s harvesters and binders. The exhibition took place in a paddock belonging to Mr J. Vaughan, about two miles from Riverton. The machine used was one of the largest size, especially manufactured for the heavy crops of Otago and Southland. About fifty farmers put in an appearance, besides a number of townspeople. The weather was not all that could be desired, heavy squalls occurring at short intervals throughout the day, keeping the crop thoroughly wet. Theerop was one of oats, of average strength, with a thick undergrowth of clover which being kept wet a certain amount of difficulty was anticipated. To the surprise of many the machine, although lilted up hurriedly on the ground, commenced and completed the work in first-class style. The work was performed by making a circuit of the crop, consequently working both with and against a strong wind that was blowing at the time, and many experienced farmers testified that they bad never before seen a machine cut so well with a strong wind. The machine was fitted up and driven by Mr Blake, one of the representatives of the manufacturers, who occasionally stopped and explained the various parts, the mode of fitting up, &e., and convinced those interested that although many contrivances were embodied in the machine, each one considered separately was a model of simplicity. The machine was purchased on the ground by Messrs Officer and Sons, one of whom mounted and finished the work without having previously worked one. On the whole, the trial was extremely satisfactory, and the advent of these machines will doubtless prove of immense benefit to the district.

The following testimonial was signed by forty of our leading farmers, who saw the machine at work :

“ Riverton, 10th Feb., 1879.

“We, the undersigned have this day seen one of W. A. Wood’s reepar and binders at work, and desire to express oar entire satisfaction with its performance.” We understand that the agents, Messrs Whittingham Bros, and Instone, have since sold three more of these machines, and are prepared to deliver any number on the shortest notice, also the duplicate of any part that may be required, together with wire for binding.