The Lawn-Boy mower brand is an iconic name in the world of gardening and landscaping. This brand, with its rich history, has been associated with durability, efficiency, and an innovative spirit that has revolutionized lawn care over the years.
Beginnings
The Lawn-Boy saga began in 1934 when Oleo-Mac, an engine builder, developed a small, lightweight two-cycle engine designed for outboard motors. Sensing an opportunity in a different market, the engineer behind Oleo-Mac, Ole Evinrude, decided to adapt his engine for use in a lawnmower. Thus, the first Lawn-Boy lawnmower was born – a self-propelled, walk-behind model that was initially launched as a “power mower”.
Evinrude’s new company, Outboard Marine Corporation, was officially formed in 1936 and the first Lawn-Boy branded lawnmower hit the market in 1939. The mower was distinguished by its signature green hue and was marketed with the slogan “Easy as walking”. The brand name Lawn-Boy was adopted to signify the simplicity and ease of use that was akin to a young boy mowing the lawn.
Manufacturing Timeline
Lawn-Boy mowers were manufactured under the Lawn-Boy name from 1939 up to 2005. In 1952, Lawn-Boy launched its first commercial model, emphasizing its focus on reliability and durability, key attributes required by professional landscapers.
The Toro Company acquired Lawn-Boy in 1989, continuing to produce Lawn-Boy-branded mowers until 2005, when it decided to limit the Lawn-Boy name to a select line of walk-behind mowers. The decision was made to focus on the strengths of each brand, with Toro emphasizing riding mowers and Lawn-Boy continuing its legacy with walk-behind models.
Peak Popularity and Notable Models
The height of Lawn-Boy’s popularity occurred from the 1960s to the early 2000s. The 21-inch self-propelled model introduced in the 1960s, known as the Lawn-Boy Supreme, was particularly well-received. This model was touted for its advanced features and easy operation, with a recoil starter and a two-stroke engine that could handle various terrains with ease.
Another popular model was the 1983 Lawn-Boy Gold Series. With a 4-cycle engine and an aluminum deck, this model stood out for its durability and high performance. The Lawn-Boy Gold Pro Series, launched in the 1990s, was also widely appreciated for its commercial-grade durability and power.
Advertising and Enduring Influence
Lawn-Boy was well-known for its innovative and catchy advertising campaigns. The “Easy as walking” slogan of the early days gave way to the famous “Mow Better Faster” campaign in the late 1970s, which emphasized the brand’s efficiency and speed. Their commercials, often featuring the iconic green Lawn-Boy mowers in action, became a staple of spring and summer television.
Lawn-Boy also sponsored various sporting events, such as NASCAR races, and had partnerships with teams like the Green Bay Packers, which further boosted its visibility and popularity.
Even today, Lawn-Boy mowers are considered collector’s items by some enthusiasts, known for their longevity, unique two-cycle engines, and distinctive look. Their classic green color is instantly recognizable to anyone familiar with lawn care.
Over the decades, Lawn-Boy has solidified its reputation as a reliable, high-performance brand in the lawn care industry. Despite changes in ownership and product lines, Lawn-Boy has maintained its core values of simplicity, durability, and innovation. Its historic journey and enduring influence serve as a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and the passion of its fans.
Whether you’re a seasoned lawn care professional, a collector of vintage mowers, or just someone who appreciates the nostalgia of the iconic green Lawn-Boy, the story of this brand is a captivating journey through the grasslands of time.
Sources and References
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Fun Facts
Early Innovation: Lawn-Boy was one of the first companies to introduce a self-propelled, walk-behind lawn mower. This early innovation brought a new level of ease and convenience to the task of lawn care.
Signature Color: The iconic “Lawn-Boy Green” is a hallmark of the brand. This distinct green hue is instantly recognizable and remains a beloved feature of these mowers.
Collector’s Item: Some older models of Lawn-Boy mowers are now considered collector’s items. These machines are cherished for their durability, unique two-cycle engines, and distinctive aesthetic.
The Gold Series: The 1983 Lawn-Boy Gold Series is one of the company’s most popular lines. Known for their 4-cycle engines and aluminum decks, these models epitomize the brand’s commitment to performance and durability.
Agricultural Origins: Lawn-Boy’s parent company, the Outboard Marine Corporation, started as an agricultural equipment manufacturer. The company was originally named the Lauson Manufacturing Company and produced horse-drawn wagons and sleighs.