Garrett & Son's double-cylinder portable ploughing engine and tackle, 1862. The engine moves the plough backwards and forwards across the field using a cable system.
Image: Science Museum/SSPL
Steam on farms
In the 1800s the high-pressure steam engine became an invaluable power source on farms.
Portable engines were developed which could be conveniently transported around the farm. Later they were supplemented by self-propelled steam traction engines like those built by John Fowler of Leeds.
Farms were reorganised on 'flow-line' principles. In the centre of operations would be a granary and engine house. By means of shafts and belts, the engine drove a number of different machines for processing the grain.
