In 1873, Henry Burdett Had a chain drive steam traction engine built to his patent specifications at the Hill Machine Shop in Bridgeport, OH.
Burdette & Webb built three steam traction engines at a plant in New Athens, Ohio. Then in about 1887, the James Means & Co. of Steubenville, Ohio. took over the building of these engines.
The James Means & Co. was founded by James Means and son, John L. Means, who was born in Steubenville in 1870. After completing his education, he entered his father's office in the James Means & Co., foundry. He remained in the foundry business for 14 years. He took a great deal of interest in the Y.M.C.A. In 1899 the company changed its name to Means Foundry & Machine Co.
The Burdette steam traction engines were compactly built, and strong. No wood was used in its construction, all being of iron, steel, and brass. It was easily handled by one man, who could fire, run, and steer while on the road.
Information Sources:
- Norbeck, Jack, Encyclopedia of American Steam Traction Engines, Crestline Publishing Inc, Glen Ellyn, Illinois, Pg. 90.
- The Steam Tractor Encyclopedia by John F. Spalding & Robert T. Rhode, 2011 pages 188-129