The Estonian Agricultural Museum has recently added a remarkable and heartwarming creation to its collection – The Tractor with a Little Bear. Built in 1993 by Kalju Simuland in Peedumäe, this one-of-a-kind tractor exemplifies the creativity and resourcefulness that helped sustain rural life in Estonia through the years.
Kalju Simuland was no stranger to building tractors. In fact, The Tractor with a Little Bear was the third one he crafted, turning his passion into a small series of unique machines. This particular tractor took about a year to build and became a versatile tool for the family, used for cultivating their garden, especially for growing potatoes, as well as transporting vegetables, leaves, and other goods.
Ingenuity and Innovative Design
What makes this tractor truly special is its construction and the variety of parts it incorporates. Many components were repurposed from different vehicles and machinery, creating a truly unique and functional machine. For instance, the gearbox and clutch came from an M-72 motorcycle, complemented by an additional gearbox from a ZIL-164 truck, which stands out as the most eye-catching feature of the tractor due to its size and central position. The rear axle was sourced from a ZIL-157, and the steering box was taken from a Moskvitch M-401.
The tractor was powered by a single-cylinder ZID-5 gasoline engine, a stationary engine widely used in the Soviet Union for equipment like potato sorters and concrete mixers. Additionally, parts from a LAZ bus were incorporated into various sections of the tractor, showcasing Kalju Simuland’s skill in adapting materials to create a reliable and versatile machine.
The Little Bear – A Personal Touch of Warmth
Adding a charming and personal touch, the tractor’s hood is adorned with a small hand-carved wooden bear, crafted by the builder himself. This delightful detail is more than just decoration – it serves as a signature of the builder’s pride and affection for his creation. Now that the tractor is part of the museum’s collection, the bear stands as a symbol of the craftsmanship and care that went into building the machine.
A New Chapter at the Museum – Part of the Exhibition “When Times Are Tough, Invent Your Own Machine”
Today, The Tractor with a Little Bear is part of the museum's collection, thanks to a generous donation from Kalju Simuland’s son. The tractor will eventually take its place in the upcoming exhibition “When Times Are Tough, Invent Your Own Machine”, where it will share its story alongside other ingenious handmade creations born during times when resourcefulness was often the only way forward. This exhibition will highlight the creativity and ingenuity of Estonians, who found practical solutions to meet everyday needs through their craftsmanship.
A Story of Practicality and History
The Tractor with a Little Bear is an inspiring example of how determination and ingenuity can create something extraordinary. It’s more than a machine – it’s a piece of history that tells the story of Estonian rural life and the spirit of innovation that has shaped it. Visitors to the museum will have the chance to connect with this unique creation and discover the tales it carries, reflecting the skills and resilience of generations past.