The Pennsylvania Lawn Mower Company

The Pennsylvania Lawn Mower Company, founded in the 1890s, was an American manufacturer of lawn mowers and garden tractors. The company produced a wide range of machines, from small push mowers to large riding tractors.

One of the company’s earliest innovations was the “crankless” mower, which did away with the need for a hand crank to start the engine. This made it much easier for users to start their mowers and helped to establish Pennsylvania Lawn Mower Company as a leader in the industry.

In the early 1900s, the company expanded its product line to include riding mowers and garden tractors. These machines were known for their durability and rugged construction, and quickly became popular with farmers and homeowners alike.

During World War II, the company shifted its focus to producing equipment for the war effort. They manufactured a wide range of products for the military, including aircraft parts and munitions.

After the war, Pennsylvania Lawn Mower Company returned to producing lawn mowers and garden tractors. They continued to innovate, introducing new features like self-propulsion and adjustable cutting heights.

In the 1950s and 60s, the company faced increasing competition from larger manufacturers like John Deere and International Harvester. They struggled to keep up, and eventually went out of business in the late 1960s.

Today, vintage Pennsylvania Lawn Mower Company machines are highly collectible, sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their unique designs and innovative features. While the company may no longer be in business, its legacy lives on through the machines it produced over a century ago.

Models

The Pennsylvania Lawn Mower Company’s earliest mowers were primarily hand-powered push mowers, which were common in the late 19th century. These mowers were relatively simple in design, consisting of a cutting reel with blades that spun as the mower was pushed forward.

The company also produced horse-drawn mowers, which were designed to be pulled by horses or other draft animals. These machines were often used on larger properties, such as farms or estates, where they could cover more ground more quickly than a push mower.

Overall, the company’s early mowers were known for their innovative designs and reliable performance. While they were more expensive than other mowers of the time, they quickly gained a reputation for being worth the investment due to their durability and efficiency.

Based on historical records and catalogs, some of the more popular and noteworthy models produced by the company include:

1. The Pennsylvania “Crankless” Mower – One of the company’s earliest and most successful models, the “Crankless” Mower did away with the need for a hand crank to start the engine, making it easier to use and more reliable.
2. The Pennsylvania “Direct Drive” Mower – This model featured a direct drive system that eliminated the need for belts, chains, or other complicated mechanisms. This made the mower more efficient and easier to maintain.
3. The Pennsylvania Riding Mower – One of the company’s later models, the Pennsylvania Riding Mower was designed for larger lawns and commercial use. It featured a wide cutting deck and comfortable seating, making it ideal for extended use.
4. The Pennsylvania Garden Tractor – This model was designed for heavier-duty tasks, such as plowing or tilling. It was larger and more powerful than the company’s other mowers and featured a range of attachments to make it more versatile.

 

Video

Pennsylvania Exeter Mower Video

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