Larry Ball on Old Timey Equipment

Partial Transcript: I first found the ram about twenty years ago. I didn't know what it was. Nobody else did either in my generation. It was mostly the old people that used them, of course. And I learned how to get them to work through trial and error and some advice from some old-timers. The white barrel up there represents the spring up on the mountain—the reservoir. The water drops down to the ram. When it shuts off the valve that's going on the outside, the water rebounds and shuts out a valve inside the globe—the instrument. Both valves are closed. The dome has water pressure—has more—I beg your pardon—has air pressure on top of the dome, which forces the water in the dome up to where you want it. For every foot of fall down to the ram, it’ll pump up 10 feet. If you’ve got a five-foot fall, you'll pump your water up 50 feet.

Partial Transcript: Hydraulic rams were widely used in Henderson County from around 1910, largely by wealthier families to simplify water transportation.

Partial Transcript: There is a renewed interest in hydraulic rams for sustainable practices such as watering gardens and providing livestock with water, driven by regulations and DIY enthusiasts.

Partial Transcript: This is a Smathers cultivating tractor. It was built in the late '30s or early '40s by a gentleman up in Brevard.

Partial Transcript: This is a cornstalk cutter or ensilage cutter. I know that's probably pronounced wrong. And you can lay your cornstalks in here and chop them up for feed.

Partial Transcript: I'm seated on the front porch of the Tumblebug Creek General Store.

Partial Transcript: The speaker reflects on how life has changed since the 1950s, emphasizing the simplicity and self-reliance of that era compared to today's computerized, convenience-driven society.

Partial Transcript: The speaker describes restoring a 1928 International Truck, used historically for hauling goods. It was rare in the region compared to more popular Model T's and Chevrolets.

Partial Transcript: Tools and memorabilia from early automotive history, including kerosene pumps and motor oil advertisements, showcase the evolution of vehicle maintenance and service.

Partial Transcript: This is a cannery that started in, approximately, 1910 up at Dana. One rock building is still up there on the end of the Dana Road at Dana Food Center.