FORDSON MODEL N FACT FILE

■ When Ford began producing the Fordson Model N in 1928, the company had already established themselves as successful manufacturers of tractors with their earlier■ Ford established a tractor manufacturing plant in Cork, Ireland, in 1919, in order to build their Fordson F tractors. Tractors built here are often referred to as Irish Fordsons.■ In 1933, Fordson tractor production was moved from Cork, Ireland, to Dagenham, England, where it continued until 1964.■ The Fordson N was introduced in 1929. It went on to become the most popular tractor in Britain and is thought of as the iconic tractor of World War II.■ The earlier Fordson tractors were blue in colour. In 1937, the decision was made to change the livery to the light orange colour known as Harvest Gold.■ During World War II, the orange tractors were seen as an easy target for enemy aircraft, so a new dark green colour scheme was introduced. Some older Model N tractors were also re-painted green at that time, which can cause confusion.■ The Model N is often seen in old photographs being driven by members of the Women’s Land Army, who were given the role of working the land to increase food production while the male workforce was away fighting in the war.■ Model N tractors were also used by the military as aircraft tugs, with some being converted to run on tracks and half-tracks.■ The Model N featured a 27hp Ford 4-cylinder engine and in 1935 a PTO shaft was also available.■ The Model N was discontinued in 1945 and was replaced by the Fordson E27N.