Grasshopper "Equipment"
Another invention that is worthy of mention is that of J.S. Flory, of Greeley, Colorado. While this machine may be used with coal-tar, it is essentially a catching and crushing machine. The Colorado Sun thus speaks of it: " The main feature of this invention is a revolving platform of heavy canvas or wire cloth which runs between two horizontal rollers. Long arms reach forward, which support a revolving reel; from these arms downward extend sheet-iron sides, over the top a canvas covering; all so constructed as to form a large wide mouth, into which the 'hoppers are driven by the arms of the revolving reel and carried between the two rollers and crushed. Horizontal strips running along the rollers serve to keep the rollers and platform clear of the crushed grasshoppers. The whole machine is supported on two main wheels about the middle, and two smaller ones in front. Extending back is a frame or crossbar, to which one or two horses may be hitched to push the machine forward, or it may be operated by hand. The front of the platform runs close to the ground, and by bearing down at the rear by the driver, it can easily be lifted over any obstruction that may be in the way. The machine can be raised or lowered in front to suit the crop over which it is run."
" This invention will destroy the grasshoppers without the necessity and expense of using oil or tar. The patent, we understand, also covers the combinations of a receptacle immediately under the rollers, into which the grasshoppers are carried, and into which, if need be, water and oil may be kept, and also a long narrow hopper (just over the rollers), into which coal-tar may be put and allowed to run through on to the platform, thus making it a self-tarring machine. Either of these combined methods of destroying the 'hoppers may be used as the farmer may choose. The machine is so simple in construction that any ordinary workman can put them up at a comparatively small price. The machine may be made of any size desired, from a small hand machine to one a rod or more in width."
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