Saunderson Tractor and Implement Co. - History

History

By the early 1900s production of 3-wheeled multi-purpose tractors was proceeding and by 1910, 4-wheeled models joined the range. Some of these were powered by Crossley engines. By the start of the Great War conventional tractors were being produced just in time for the sales boom caused by the wartime labour shortage and for a short time Saunderson were Britain's biggest tractor makers. This success was not to last as the 1920s agricultural slump hit sales of all tractor manufacturers and so in 1924 Saunderson was looking for a buyer.

In 1922 they introduced a new light Tractor, this had a two cylinder 'V'-formation petrol-paraffin engine. This was a 20 hp unit, giving 12 hp on the draw bar. the tractor had a 3 year warranty.

Crossley Brothers took over the business in 1924 putting them into competition in the vehicle business with Crossley Motors. The tractors were rebranded as Crossleys. As a result of the takeover Crossley also entered into railway locomotive building business for a year as work in hand included three petrol powered locomotives for Beswicks Limeworks of Hindlow, Derbyshire. The factory at Bedford continued in operation for many years making small stationary engines as well as agricultural machinery. It was sold in the mid-1930s and became known as the Bedford Plough and Engineering co., the factory continuing to operate until the 1970s.