John Deere

John Deere

John Deere logo

John Deere was an American blacksmith and manufacturer who founded Deere & Company, one of the largest and leading agricultural and construction equipment manufacturers in the world. His innovative designs and business acumen laid the foundation for a company that has become synonymous with quality and reliability in the agricultural industry.

Early Life

John Deere was born on February 7, 1804, in Rutland, Vermont. He was the third son of William Rinold Deere and Sarah Yates Deere. His father, a tailor, disappeared during a voyage to England when John was just four years old, leaving the family in financial difficulty. John was raised by his mother and attended school in his hometown.

Career Beginnings

Deere began his career as a blacksmith's apprentice at the age of 17. He quickly gained a reputation for his skill and craftsmanship. In 1836, facing economic hardship, Deere moved to Grand Detour, Illinois, where he set up a blacksmith shop. It was here that he would make his most significant contribution to agriculture.

Invention of the Steel Plow

Early John Deere Plow

In the 1830s, farmers in the Midwest faced difficulties with the sticky prairie soil, which clung to the cast-iron plows used at the time. Deere recognized the need for a more efficient plow and in 1837, he developed a plow with a polished steel moldboard that could cut through the soil without clogging. This innovation greatly increased the efficiency of farming in the region and led to increased agricultural productivity.

Founding of Deere & Company

The success of the steel plow led Deere to expand his business. In 1848, he moved the company to Moline, Illinois, to take advantage of better transportation and resources. The company grew rapidly, and by 1855, Deere's factory was producing over 1,000 plows annually. Deere & Company continued to innovate and expand its product line, becoming a leader in the agricultural equipment industry.

Expansion and Innovation

John Deere Horse Drawn Manure Spreader

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Deere & Company expanded its product offerings to include a wide range of agricultural equipment. The company introduced horse-drawn equipment such as manure spreaders and cultivators, which further solidified its reputation as a leader in agricultural innovation.

Legacy and Impact

John Deere's commitment to quality and innovation set the standard for the agricultural equipment industry. His company has continued to thrive, adapting to changes in technology and agriculture. Today, Deere & Company is a global leader in the production of agricultural, construction, and forestry machinery.

John Deere World Headquarters

John Deere World Headquarters

The John Deere World Headquarters is located in Moline, Illinois. Designed by the renowned architect Eero Saarinen, the headquarters is a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and excellence. The building is noted for its modernist design and integration with the surrounding landscape.

Historical Logos

John Deere Logo 1876-1912

John Deere Logo 1912-1936

The John Deere logo has evolved over the years, reflecting the company's growth and modernization. The early logos featured a simple depiction of a deer, which has become more stylized over time. The iconic leaping deer logo is now recognized worldwide as a symbol of quality and reliability.

Related Pages

• Deere & Company
• Agricultural machinery
• Steel plow
• Eero Saarinen