Deering Harvester was established in 1902, as a manufacturer of agricultural machinery. Later that year, the company merged with several other groups forming the International Harvester company. The merger led to an expansion of the Hamilton plant, quickly becoming the “largest agricultural implement works in the British Empire.” The company was also recognized as having a very diverse workforce, many workers were newcomers to Canada. A number of Armenian immigrants found work in the Hamilton plant and it was the first to employ women in non-traditional jobs. Many of those employed lived within walking distance of the plant in dedicated housing.

In 1985, after 83 years, the company was bought by J.I. Case of Racine, Wisconsin. The factory went on to manufacture planter and seeding equipment until 1999. An exhibit erected by former Case employees is on display at Hamilton’s Museum of Steam and Technology.

Source: Hamilton Industrial Trail