What can cut a massive 36”-wide walnut log into 20 boards even though it’s only 2/3 the height of the log? Stephenson County Antique Engine Club of Freeport Illinois’ Garr-Scott Steam Powered Sawmill!
See this monster of a bandsaw take on a behemoth walnut log and render it into nice, even boards in less than a minute! The sound of it alone puts one in mind of the world’s largest, angriest wasp. Over the course of the video, the gigantic belts, which move the blade, are also visible. This is a look at a historic sawmill and one which is representative of the way the lumber industry operated in the early days of the Industrial Revolution. Don’t miss this close-up look at this beast with a blade!
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According to a member of the Stephenson County Antique Engine Club, this sawmill was powered by a restored, vintage Port Huron Steam Traction Engine. The walnut log was made into 20” wide, 1 ¼” thick boards with a beautiful brown-and-white grain.
Those in the area or interested in visiting Freeport, Illinois to see Stephenson County Antique Engine Club’s museum or one of its annual events can visit The Freeport Show to view a full calendar of events, information on individual attractions, color photographs and much more.
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Have a look at the vintage 1800s bandsaw below, and SHARE if you are a fan.