Kaiser Darrin Roadster DKF-16
This true roadster manufactured by Willys Motors, Inc., boasts side curtains, hidden top, plexiglass wind wings, and sold for $3,668.00. The fibreglass body features doors that slide into front fender wells and an F head Willys engine. Of the 435 assembly line cars built only 226 are known to still exist. If you miss the car in the exhibit it is probably parked in front as it is driven regularly by Betty Geisler.
Shucks Ma—“
Now I can work 40 acres a day!”
The Indian stared in amazement, dogs and kids ran for cover and great grandfather swelled with pride as he drove his new J. I. Case steam engine across the prairie.
The mechanical age had really arrived as these and many other smoke-belching behemoths rumbled across the plains of South Dakota years ago. The “dirt farmer” came into his own, turning over as many as 40 acres of virgin sod a day. He was soon to be recognized as the most important single factor in feeding a rapidly growing nation. Today’s farmer, heir to yesterday’s pioneer efforts, finds his role even more important. A hungry world constantly demanding a greater food supply leans heavily on the American farmer’s ability to produce more and more.
The giants pictured here have long since retired. But South Dakota is fortunate to have men of vision who have restored and maintained this part of our heritage to see and enjoy now and for years to come.
A Rumley Oil-Pull provides the power to drive one of the older threshing machines commonly seen in The wheat country of Central South Dakota. This steam powered behemoth provided belt drive to run the thresher.