FARM HORSE POWER

Times have changed. We have gone from traditional farming with draft horses to farming with trucks, tractors and assorted other engine vehicles. Draft horse power was converted into a form of measurement for the original engines of the newly developed steam ships and ultimately cars. trucks and tractors.

Over the past year, I have rode by this old truck parked along side of an abandoned building. It caught my eye originally by the huge white grill which spelled out the large letters -- GMC. I am a bit sentimental about old GM trucks as my father worked for General Motors Corporation's truck and coach division for 36 years in Michigan.

So that is what caught my eye at first. Then the license came next. It was registered, "farm," on its license plate. Then I realized it was a dump truck. The probably 70s truck, spelled out hard work -- which would be farm work by its designated license.

Nature, time, and people had beautified this dump truck. Like an old antique it had a patina of use and character. Above is a metal step up to the passenger side. Beat up for sure but still sturdy.

Now here is what I thought seemed like a modern painting. Rust had designed a pattern all over its dump section. It would take years for nature to oxidize this look.

Don't know who owns this beauty. I find its working scars a tribute to its many years of service. Years of good service due to a company that was proud of its trucks back when my father worked for GM.

Traditional farming changed when real horse power was converted to engine horse power.

But there is still one thing a truck or tractor can't do, but a draft horse can-- get in the fields to work when there is mud. Win some, lose some.