A great antique, this is locally referred to in my central Illinois area as a circular singletree, a Louden Hoisting Singletree, and/or sometimes a Whipple and/or Whiffle tree. This was developed by William Louden of Fairfield, Iowa. Considered one of the most innovative haying process improvements of its time it was used with horses for purposes such as pulling ropes on hay trolleys to transport hay to haylofts. The Louden singletree is made of aged hard wood and it has cast malleable iron hardware attached. This is clearly embossed “Patented Oct. 1, 1895" with raised lettering in the steel.  This date corresponds to the Louden patent which is included in the attachments.  It measures approximately 28” x 18” x 2-1/2". There are slots or brackets which are used for guiding the leather harness reins and holding up the circular single tree to the horse. The center eye or loop swivels to avoid kinking. Attached are several pictures of the single tree. Also attached is an old Louden’s advertisement that points out the benefits of a Louden’s circular singletree over a standard singletree. It holds up the harness, so the horse doesn’t get tangled in the lines, especially when backing or turning. Plus, it is narrower and does not catch on the ends which is especially useful in orchards to avoid injuring trees or vines. Note that this ships is a yellow Safety DX Walker Box (shown).  This rustic farm primitive is in good condition and is increasingly difficult to find.

Seller’s Notes:

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Thanks for looking!