International Harvester changed the advertising world forever in 1911 with the production of “Back to the Old Farm,” the world’s first commercial film.
Shown in local theaters, all early films were 35mm and featured tractors, trucks and many educational subjects. The advent of 16mm film and portable projectors allowed convenient showings for the dealer open house and other groups and clubs. Many Harvester films from the 40′s and 50′s were major productions with well known actors that had the unique ability to entertain and showcase IH equipment.
The 60′s brought Harvester’s own film studio and a flood of award winning films that continued until the age of video. No other corporation has ever equaled International Harvester’s incredible film chronicle. The precious gift of showing past generations the future and future generations the past are the unequaled film legacy of International Harvester.
Sounds great! Such a classic treasure trove of pure American history available to all to enjoy for years to come. Sadly, some feeble minded corporate fool had the entire collection destroyed in 1991. Seventy years of International Harvester and American history gone for all times. My wife equated it to the burning of the library of Alexandria. I couldn’t agree more. Thankfully a few fair sighted individuals retained copies of select films and begin an intensive search for remaining copies. Because of their remarkable efforts we can still enjoy these fine films of the extensive International Harvester product line today.
I can personally speak to the quality of the films as I received the first DVD of the collection for my birthday this past August. It is simply amazing to see the trucks, tractors and factories of yesterday in brand new condition. The volume of information is simply overwhelming. You don’t have to be an IH fan to enjoy these restored films. Students of American history will find much to revel in.
Check out the site today, they have samples of each video, enjoy!