After 1900, farming activities increased on the Island, and tractors became the most important piece of equipment at the ranch. A 1929 Case Model L pulled plows and powered belt-driven saws and threshing machines. A 1948 Ford 8N, a light duty tractor, towed hay mowers, wagons, harrows, and grain binders. A 1956 Massey Ferguson, fondly referred to as "The Beast," pulled heavy equipment needed to plant and harvest crops.