The History of Montgomery Ward Lawn Tractors
When it comes to lawn tractors, Montgomery Ward has long been a household name. These machines are known for their durability, reliability, and high-quality design. But have you ever wondered who made Montgomery Ward lawn tractors? In this article, we'll explore the fascinating history of these machines and examine the companies that played a role in their creation.
The Origins of Montgomery Ward Lawn Tractors
The story of Montgomery Ward lawn tractors begins in the early 20th century. At that time, the Montgomery Ward department store was one of the largest retailers in the United States, offering a wide range of products to consumers across the country. In the 1930s, the company decided to enter the lawn tractor market, recognizing the growing demand for machines that could help homeowners maintain their lawns more easily.
Montgomery Ward initially partnered with the Love Manufacturing Company, a firm that specialized in producing small engines and tractors. Love Manufacturing began producing lawn tractors for Montgomery Ward in the 1930s, and these machines quickly became popular among consumers. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Montgomery Ward continued to work with Love Manufacturing to produce high-quality lawn tractors.
The Role of Gilson in Montgomery Ward Lawn Tractors
In the 1960s, Montgomery Ward began working with a new partner: the Gilson Company. Gilson was a Wisconsin-based firm that specialized in producing outdoor power equipment, including lawn tractors. Montgomery Ward and Gilson collaborated on a new line of lawn tractors that featured innovative designs and advanced features.
One of the most popular Montgomery Ward lawn tractors produced in the 1960s and 1970s was the Gilson 16HP. This machine was hailed for its powerful engine, comfortable design, and excellent performance on a variety of lawn types. Montgomery Ward continued to work with Gilson throughout the 1970s and 1980s, producing some of the most popular lawn tractors of the era.
The Rise of MTD and the Future of Montgomery Ward Lawn Tractors
In the 1990s, Montgomery Ward's fortunes began to decline. The company struggled to compete in a rapidly changing retail landscape, and it eventually filed for bankruptcy in 1997. The Montgomery Ward brand was purchased by the Direct Marketing Services company, which continued to sell lawn tractors under the Montgomery Ward name. However, the production of Montgomery Ward lawn tractors was outsourced to other companies, including the MTD Corporation.
Today, MTD is one of the largest producers of lawn tractors in the world. The company has continued to produce Montgomery Ward lawn tractors under the Direct Marketing Services umbrella, offering a range of machines that are well-regarded for their quality and performance. While Montgomery Ward may no longer be a major player in the lawn tractor market, its legacy lives on through the machines that continue to bear its name.
The Legacy of Montgomery Ward Lawn Tractors
With a history spanning nearly a century, Montgomery Ward lawn tractors have left an indelible mark on the outdoor power equipment industry. From the early days of the Love Manufacturing partnership to the latest MTD-produced machines, these tractors have become a beloved part of many homeowners' lawn care routines. While Montgomery Ward may no longer be a household name, its legacy lives on through the machines that helped shape the modern lawn tractor market.