In the heart of Ederville, a place where history and heavy machinery meet, classic Caterpillar tractors like the Sixty and Forty, along with numerous other vintage machines, are celebrated for their enduring legacy in earthmoving. These historic tractors, some dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, played pivotal roles in shaping the world of construction and earthmoving, from building the Hoover Dam to placing the iconic Hollywood sign.
The Caterpillar Sixty, produced between 1925 and 1931, was one of the early powerhouses from the newly formed Caterpillar Tractor Company. It featured a Best 4-cylinder gas engine, generating 35 drawbar-horsepower and 60 belt-horsepower. These machines, which were initially designed for agricultural use, proved invaluable in earthmoving tasks, cementing their place in history. Their rugged design and reliable performance helped tackle large-scale projects and continue to serve as a testament to Caterpillar’s engineering legacy. To honor its roots, Caterpillar has released limited-edition Centennial Grey models this year, paying tribute to the Sixty’s distinctive gray color.
At Ederville, a 17-building site in the U.S. where these vintage machines are lovingly preserved, visitors get the chance to see these historic vehicles in action. One of the standout tractors in the collection is the 1936 Caterpillar Forty, a gasoline-powered tractor that still demonstrates its capabilities today. Operated with a hand crank, the Forty is paired with the 1940 Cat Terracer No. 2, a machine designed for farming terraces. Unlike a grader, the Terracer has no front wheels and features hand-controlled levers to adjust the blade’s angle and height.
Another impressive machine on display is the 1945 Caterpillar D7 dozer, which Erik Christenbury proudly showcases at the annual event. The D7’s ability to push large amounts of dirt remains unmatched even today.
In addition to these well-maintained machines, the 1952 International Harvester TD24 dozer adds a touch of military history. With its gasoline pony motor and a Bucyrus Erie hydraulic blade known as the “bull grader,” this dozer was initially produced for military purposes and is now a key player at the sand pit during the annual show.
Ederville’s tractor collection, started by the late Ken Eder, continues to grow in size and importance. Ken’s vision was to create the largest tractor collection, and his passion for preserving vintage equipment led to the establishment of this unique site. Visitors gather annually to see these rare tractors in action during the 100-Plus Years of Progress show, which marks its 20th anniversary this year. The event draws volunteers, collectors, and enthusiasts from all over, making it one of the premier showcases for antique machinery in the country.
Ken’s dream lives on through the dedication of his family and friends, especially his wife, Patti Eder, who plans to continue the show and preserve the vintage equipment collection for future generations.
With a rich history of earthmoving machinery, Ederville stands as a living museum where the past, present, and future of construction equipment come together to inspire and educate.
Fulian Operation Team
2025.3.11
