Jerry Shaffer is seen in the middle of his care and restoration project on a recently donated Bloom Manufacturing elevator. Jerry has been with Heartland Acres for 7 years. At 80 years young, Jerry knows this type of equipment and in some cases used it back in the day.
Bloom Manufacturing, located west of Independence has evolved over the years and has manufactured items for the needs of a changing economy and customer base. The origins of the company date back to the early 1900’s.
Early days of the company were focused on design and manufacture of grain elevators, corn cutters, and grain augers. The items were well known throughout the area for being reliable, efficient and affordable. Some of the equipment is still seen today in farming operations in Amish communities.
Heartland Acres received a donation of a Bloom Manufacturing elevator from Mike Sindt in Charles City. The elevator sat outside for many years and was deteriorating. Mike thought of Heartland Acres as great place to display the item for others to see. The elevator is being cleaned up, sealed with some linseed oil and having minor repairs so the gears will turn again and will then be displayed. The elevator may end up with a small gas or electrical motor mounted to it which would have been the preferred method of powering the elevator back in the day.
This and many other items are on display at Heartland Acres to tell the story of our local manufacturing and agricultural economy.
For more information about Heartland Acres please call (319) 332.0123 or find us on Facebook.
