Changes to the Trenching Machine we use today.

Owners Matthew & Donna are celebrating 20 years of married bliss! To celebrate, they were able to revisit Pioneer Acres Museum in Irricana where they had spent some time on their honeymoon. During their visit, they were able to see a 72 year old Trenching Machine at work. It was amazing to realize the changes, both with modernization and safety, compared to the equipment we use today.

This 1946 Trenching Machine was built by John Fraser of Huxley, AB. Taking approximately 3 years to build and perfect the machine, Fraser operated the trencher from 1946 to 1953. The main frame and axels were from a 1917 Avery tractor, with the rear wheels from a 1020 tractor. The engine, clutch and transmission were from 1927 Pontiac and the bevel gear from a Diamond T Truck. The digging chain was hand crafted from several Titan drive chains with the conveyer drive from a combine reel drive. The machine could dig a trench 8 feet deep and 10 inches wide at a speed of 15-20 feet per hour. The trenching machine was purchased by Lou Frere Sr. in 1953 and with some minor modifications, was used until 1963.