A.D. Baker was started by Abner D. Baker, born March 17, 1861 to Samuel and Lydia Baker near Fredericktown, Know County, Ohio. Abner conducted a repair shop buisness in Swanton until 1901, when it was incorporated under the name of the A.D. Baker Company to engage in the manufacturing of steam traction engines (ca 1890's).
The Baker traction engines used the Baker center-hung reverse valve gear, Baker balance valve and seat, adjustable boxes for rear axles, and the Baker Uniflow Cylinder.
The company also made the famous Baker Valve Gear for railroad locomotives. The Baker Valve Gear was used on railroad locomotive worldwide.
Information Sources:
- Norbeck, Jack, Encyclopedia of American Steam Traction Engines, Crestline Publishing Inc, Glen, Ellyn, Illinois
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Steam Power on the American Farm by Reynold M. Wik, 1953 page 254
- The Steam Tractor Encyclopedia by John F. Spalding & Robert T. Rhode, 2011 pages 94-105