Drove a Steam Bulldozer Today

[CuttingEdge]

I have operated some interesting stuff; skidders, bulldozers and locomotives, but today was a first in that I drove a combination of all three; a 1900-1917 Lombard Log Hauler.

We went to the Maine Logging Museum today and at noon they brought out one of the 83 steam Lombard log haulers that Alvin Lombard built in his Waterville, Maine shops. Today only 5 remain in existence. It is largely considered the first tracked machine and was patented in 1900. This one the University of Maine rebuilt and got into working order and this was the first year they allowed rides. We were fortunate to get on the last ride, but just before the wife and kids went for a ride they asked if I would like to be the "steersman"; the guy up front who cranked a wheel to get the skis or wheels to steer. So I did.

When it came time to go for a ride with the kids and wife, I got to help feed the boiler, and yes it was with wood and not coal making the experience even better. And for those that want to know, one of these rigs can pull some 200 cords of wood at once, but only gets 7 miles to the cord!

It was a great day of logging 1900 style! (with pictures to prove it...that is me steering the beast coming down the road).

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/ ... e=586E131D

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/ ... e=58AC53E1

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/ ... e=58AB5F9E

[Paul Buhler]

but only gets 7 miles to the cord!

That's a lot of weight to throw around multiple times to get the desired work done. Looks like you had fun.