Tale of Two Tractors

MT. PLEASANT - Ed Seggerman, Treasurer of the Big Creek Tractor Club, is one of two remaining original members. In addition to his duties as treasurer, he himself is also a collector. Each tractor has a story.

Seggerman favors Allis-Chalmers products. He owns both a 1962 D17, and a 1976 185, both built in Wisconsin. The 185 belonged to Seggerman’s father-in-law: one Bill Hamilton of Winfield, who used it on a vast 160-acre farm. The machine pulled a 4-16 plow, meaning a plow which dug 4 16-inch furrows simultaneously. Seemingly an Allis-Chalmers loyalist, he also owned an AC combine and a D17 tractor, not unlike the one Seggerman currently owns. This, in part, inspired Seggerman to buy his own.

Both machines are still in use. Both see regular service in the Big Creek club, including during the recent FFA event in Mt. Pleasant, Bring Your Tractor to School Day. During the event, Seggerman, astride his 185, shepherded the students and their tractors to the high school. It is a good thing the 185 retains its original Heat Houser, a shroud meant to redirect engine heat to the operator. It is likely that, under his care, they will remain running for a long time.