Founding and early years Louden Machinery Company
william louden s 1867 patent hay carrier
the company founded william louden (1841-1931). louden born in pennsylvania , moved iowa infant. after attending axline university in fairfield, became teacher. in 1867, invented patented hay carrier made two-story barns practical. according 1 description, louden s hay carrier utilized existing hay fork tool broadened use attaching overhead monorail along hay fork , hay moved within barn.
in 1868, opened first shop manufacture hay carriers. in 1868, louden moved manufacturing operation fairfield operated under name louden manufacturing works. despite setbacks resulting in bankruptcy during long depression of 1870s, continued manufacturing hay carriers through 1880s. in 1887, william louden , wife mary jane formed louden machinery company. younger brother robert b. r.b. louden (1857-1939) joined company in 1889 , became company s president when incorporated in 1892. in 1890s, company opened factory in downtown fairfield (at 607 west broadway) still in existence , has been listed on national register of historic places.
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