The J.I.Case Eagle - "Old Abe"

The Eagle Known as "OldAbe" symbolizes a trade mark well known in the rural communities of Canada and United States. Adopted by Mr. Case in 1865 as the symbol for his business he has become the most famous bird in agricultural history.Mr. Case had first observed the screeching eagle who was being carried as the mascot of Infantry C. After questioning a boy beside him while watching a regiment march he learned the story of the eagle from the young boy.

In 1861 north of Wisconsin Indians feld a tree and captured an eaglet still to young to fly. The eagle was carried back by the Indian Chief as a pet. Later the chief's son bartered the bird for a bushel of corn. During those early days of war, recruited men had a weakness for mascots. The eagle was taken to an army camp where he was sold to Eau Claire, Company C for $2.50 The bird was dubbed "Old Abe" after there commander in chief. Old Abe later became the mascot for the entire Eighth Regiment at Madison. He was even inducted in a special ceremony with a red, white and blue ribbon around his neck and was carried on his perch in regimental parades along side the American flag. Old Abe survived 38 battles with the 8th and his loud screeched gained respect. His last public appearance was on the platform with General Grant in 1880 at a reunion of veterans in Milwaukee.

It was there that Jerome Increase Case decided to adopt "Old Abe" as his company's symbol. Old Abe died on March 26 1881 but for more than 100 years has represented the symbol of the J. I. Case Company and been its trade mark on machinery, books and literature.

The picture (below) shows a HP Case portable built by the J.I. Case Company in Racine Wisconsin. It is on display at Steam-Era in 2008. It is owned by the Ontario Steam Heritage Museum in Puslinch Ontario and has just been restored with a new all welded boiler built by Olivers Bolilers in Auburn Ontario.