In July of 1831, Cyrus McCormick’s invention, the first successful mechanical reaper, was demonstrated in one of McCormick’s wheat fields. The reaper, which harvested grain five times faster with much less effort than a man with a scythe or sickle, was a revolution in agriculture. The reaper was the first of many mechanical inventions that allowed farmers to cultivate ever larger tracts of land with fewer people, and accelerated our nation’s westward expansion. McCormick later moved his operation to Chicago where his company evolved into International Harvester and J.I. Case.
The 634-acre farm, called Walnut Grove by the McCormick family, is now a research station operated by Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). A restored blacksmith shop, gristmill and museum are open to the public and provide a look at McCormick the man and his invention. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; admission is free. To reach the McCormick Farm, take Exit 205 off I-81 at Raphine onto Rt. 606. The farm is approximately one mile east of the interstate. For additional information, call the museum office at (540) 377-2255.
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