In the summer of 1921, five Fordson tractors arrived from the United States, with one mechanic and overseer; one of these tractors was assigned to my Uncle Abram Loewen to drive. These tractor operators did all the work for the village as well as some for their Russian neighbours. Two men were assigned to each tractor, and they worked day and night. Each driver was paid in food products for their family – no cash.

     Abram’s unfamiliarity with motorized vehicles, like tractors, almost resulted in what could have been a destructive and deadly event. One evening, Abram lit a match to peer into the gas tank to check its level. A blue flame appeared, but thanks to Abram’s quick thinking, he quickly covered the opening with his cap and smothered the flame.