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Last Updated:
2024-09-22 08:20:01

John Deere

American company founded in 1837
American company founded in 1837

John Deere, founded in 1837, is an American corporation that manufactures agricultural, construction, and forestry machinery. It has a rich history of innovation and growth.

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1804-02-07
Birth of John Deere

John Deere was born on February 7, 1804, in Rutland, Vermont.

1821
John Deere begins blacksmith apprenticeship

At the age of 17, John Deere started his blacksmith apprenticeship in 1821.

1826
John Deere enters the trade of blacksmithing

In 1826, John Deere officially entered the trade of blacksmithing.

1827
Marriage of John Deere to Demarius Lamb

John Deere married Demarius Lamb in 1827.

1828
Start of John Deere's Family

In 1828, John Deere started having children. He eventually had a total of nine children, all girls except for one.

1836
John Deere's Move to Illinois

In 1836, following the economic downturn in New England, John Deere relocated to Illinois along with other Vermonters. There, he established a blacksmith shop in Grand Detour, showcasing his expertise and entrepreneurial spirit.

1837-04-05
The Steel Plow

In 1837, John Deere created his first steel plow, unsure of its success. However, the plow performed exceptionally well, leading him to establish a dedicated building for its production.

1843
John Deere partners with Leonard Andrus

In 1843, John Deere collaborated with Leonard Andrus to increase plow production. They believed that by working together, they could double their output. However, their partnership faced challenges due to both individuals being stubborn.

1845
John Deere's Steel Plow Innovation

John Deere discovered that using smooth steel from a Scottish steel saw blade for his plow was more efficient and less prone to getting stuck in the mud. This innovation revolutionized farming equipment.

1848-10-26
John Deere's relocation

On October 26, 1848, John Deere moved to a new location. The specific details of the move are not provided in the input.

1849
John Deere's Business Expansion

In 1849, John Deere's business was booming, producing 2,000 plows a year. He continued to expand his operation, leading to the growth of the company that started from a single broken sawblade.

1853
Charles Deere Takes Over Deere & Company

After the death of his older brother, Charles Deere assumed primary management duties of Deere & Company at the age of 21, leading the company for the next 46 years.

1855
The Plow that Broke the Plains

In 1855, John Deere's factory had sold more than 10,000 plows, which became known as 'The Plow that Broke the Plains'. It was instrumental in enabling the western migration of settlers during the 1800s.

1863
Introduction of the Hawkeye Riding Cultivator

In 1863, John Deere introduced the Hawkeye Riding Cultivator, the first ride-on plow that relied on horses, at the Iowa State Fair, expanding the company's range of equipment.

1864
John Deere receives its first patent

In 1864, John Deere received its first patent, establishing itself as a significant player in the manufacturing industry.

1868
Founding of Deere & Company

In 1868, John Deere founded Deere & Company, which later expanded its product line to include tractors, combines, and other farming equipment, solidifying its position as an industry leader.

1873
John Deere becomes the second mayor of Moline, Illinois

In 1873, John Deere assumed the role of the second mayor of Moline, Illinois.

1876
Creation of John Deere Leaping Deer Trademark

The iconic leaping deer trademark of John Deere was created over a century ago and is now recognized worldwide. It holds the distinction of being the longest continuously used corporate logo among Fortune 500 companies.

1886
John Deere passes away

In 1886, John Deere passed away, leading to his heirs taking over the company for the next century.

1887
Expansion of Deere & Mansur Company

In 1887, the Deere & Mansur Company, founded by Charles Deere and Alvah Mansur, relocated to a larger facility in Moline as their planter manufacturing division experienced significant success.

1907
William Butterworth becomes President of John Deere

Just 15 years after joining Deere & Company, William Butterworth, son-in-law of Charles Deere, became president of John Deere in 1907. He consolidated 11 factories and 25 sales organizations into one entity, leading to the development of the modern Deere & Company.

1912
Deere & Company starts designing tractors

In 1912, Deere & Company began the design of tractors under the leadership of William Buttersworth, who was Charles Deere's son-in-law.

1913
John Deere Enters Harvesting Business

In 1913, under William Butterworth's leadership, John Deere expanded into the harvesting business by establishing the John Deere Harvester Works, a pivotal moment in the company's history.

1917
Introduction of Waterloo Boy tractor

In 1917, the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company introduced the kerosene-fueled 'Waterloo Boy' tractor.

1918-09-04
First Tractor 'Waterloo Boy'

The first tractor, known as the Waterloo Boy, was introduced on September 4, 1918. It was an old-fashioned tractor that operated using water at times.

1923-10-24
Introduction of Model D

On October 24, 1923, the Model D tractor was introduced. This model played a significant role in the advancement of agricultural machinery.

1927
John Deere manufactured its first combine

The year 1927 saw John Deere's foray into combine manufacturing with the production of its first combine.

1928
William Butterworth becomes Chairman of the Board of John Deere

After retiring in 1928, William Butterworth became the company's first chairman of the board.

1931
Deere introduces first industrial-use tractor, Model 'DI'

In 1931, Deere launches its first tractor specifically designed for industrial purposes, known as the Model 'DI'.

1934
Introduction of John Deere Model 'A' tractor

Charles Deere Wiman, the great-grandson of John Deere, introduced the famous Model 'A' tractor in 1934, ensuring the company's success despite the Great Depression.

1935
Introduction of John Deere Model 'B' tractor

Following the success of the Model 'A' tractor, John Deere introduced the Model 'B' tractor in 1935 under Charles Deere Wiman's leadership.

1936
Simplification of the John Deere logo for manufacturing efficiency

In 1936, John Deere simplified its logo to streamline the manufacturing process, making it easier to stencil onto products.

1937
Introduction of a new, simpler logo

In 1937, John Deere introduced a new, simpler logo, possibly in response to increased usage of the trademark or to commemorate the company's 100th anniversary.

1947
Introduction of Model M Tractor on Tracks

In 1947, John Deere introduced the Model M tractor on tracks, also known as the crawler. This heavy-duty working machine revolutionized agricultural practices.

1948
Establishment of Des Moines Works Factory

In 1948, John Deere acquired an industrial area of the Des Moines Ordnance Plant, which was originally constructed by the US government during WWII for ammunition production, and transformed it into the Des Moines Works factory.

1950
Evolution of the John Deere logo

The 1950 logo marked a significant evolution in the John Deere logo design, setting the stage for future iterations by refining the text, slogan, and imagery.

1955-01-01
John Deere's great-great-grandson in-law becomes President

In 1955, William Hewitt, who was John Deere's great-great-grandson in-law, assumed the role of President of the company.

1956
Introduction of New John Deere Logo

In 1956, John Deere transitioned from the slogan 'Quality Farm Equipment' to a new contemporary logo design, featuring the leaping Deere symbol placed under the company name for the first time.

1957-11-27
Invention of Six-Row Planter and Cultivators

On November 27, 1957, significant advancements were made with the invention of the six-row planter and cultivators. These innovations greatly increased efficiency in farming.

1960
Deere introduces Gator Utility Vehicle

In 1960, Deere debuted the Gator Utility Vehicle, which offered versatility and reached a wide range of customers in a unique class of its own.

1963
John Deere Consumer Equipment Division Enters Market

In 1963, John Deere's Consumer Equipment division enters the market with lawn and garden tractors along with attachments.

1964-01-01
William Hewitt becomes Chairman of John Deere

In 1964, William Hewitt transitioned from the role of President to Chairman of John Deere, where he served until 1982.

1968
Redesign of John Deere Logo

In 1968, John Deere redesigned its logo for better reproduction and readability as the company expanded across various divisions.

1975
Joining John Deere

Samuel Allen began his career at John Deere in 1975, where he gained extensive knowledge of the company by working in various factories in both labor and management roles.

1978
Robert Hanson becomes president of Deere & Company

Robert Hanson was named the president of Deere & Company in 1978.

1980-07-28
Introduction of Popular Tractor Models 4430 and 4440

In 1980, iconic tractor models 4430 and 4440 were introduced, becoming some of the most popular and enduring tractors in the industry. These models were known for their size and performance, remaining popular choices for farmers even today.

1982
Retirement of Hewitt

Hewitt retired in 1982 after serving as a territory manager in California and later becoming a director at Deere & Company. His legacy includes global expansion, development of four- and six-cylinder tractor lines, and the construction of the corporate headquarters in Moline.

1985
John Deere enters health care market with John Deere Health Care, Inc.

In 1985, John Deere entered the health care market with the formation of John Deere Health Care, Inc.

1988
Successful sales run

By 1988, John Deere experienced a period of successful sales, marking a positive turn in the company's performance.

1990
Hans Becherer becomes Chairman of Deere & Company

Upon Robert Hanson's retirement in 1990, Hans Becherer became the Chairman of Deere & Company. He emphasized values such as constant innovation and global growth, which have been integral to John Deere's history since the creation of the first steel plow.

1992
Deere launches GreenStar system

In 1992, Deere introduced the GreenStar system, its first fully integrated yield-mapping package, for all Maximizer 9000 Series Combines, enhancing precision farming practices.

1994
8000 Series Tractor Debut

The 8000 Series tractor is introduced in 1994, setting new standards in control, visibility, maneuverability, and power.

1996
Introduction of 7760 Cotton Picker

In 1996, John Deere makes history by introducing the 7760 Cotton Picker, the first to build round cotton modules on the go.

1997
Opening of the John Deere Pavilion

Under Hans Becherer's leadership, Deere & Company opened the John Deere Pavilion in 1997. This marked a significant milestone in the company's history.

1998
Creation of MachineFinder

MachineFinder was established in 1998 and has evolved into a leading global platform for trading used John Deere equipment across various sectors such as Agriculture, Construction, and Forestry.

2000
Creation of Current John Deere Logo

The current John Deere logo was created in 2000, featuring color and a forward leaping Deere design, symbolizing progress and innovation.

2009
Deere acquires Wirtgen Group

In 2009, Deere acquired the Wirtgen Group, the leading manufacturer of roadbuilding equipment globally, which helped Deere become a comprehensive supplier to the construction sector.

2010
Robert Lane steps down as chairman of Deere

In 2010, Robert Lane retired as the chairman of Deere, marking the end of his leadership role in the company.

2014-12-22
Release of New Quad Track by John Deere

On December 22, 2014, John Deere launched the new Quad Track, which is considered the largest and most advanced machine in the market.

2017
Release of Compact Tractors

The company released a series of compact tractors with engine horsepower ranging from 22.4 to 75 in 2017, targeting small-scale farmers and landowners.

2019
Launch of Specialty Tractors

In 2019, the company launched a range of specialty tractors with engine horsepower ranging from 75 to 155, catering to specific agricultural needs.

2021-09-05
John Deere's contribution to global well-being

John Deere, since its founding over 180 years ago, has contributed greatly to improving global well-being by manufacturing innovative agriculture and construction equipment.

2022
Introduction of Utility Tractors with 22.4-140 Engine HP

Utility tractors with engine horsepower ranging from 22.4 to 140 were introduced in 2022.

2023-11-07
The History of John Deere

The history of John Deere, from its founder's early life to its ongoing role in modern agriculture, highlights the company's enduring commitment to innovation and quality in shaping the agricultural landscape.

2024
Copyright © Deere & Company

Deere & Company holds the copyright for various John Deere related products and services. All rights are reserved by the company.

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John Deere
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