4" x 3" In 1836 Albert W. Gray patented a hand cranked corn sheller. Horse-powered treadmills followed in 1844, to first power equipment in Gray's own shop, then to power Gray's threshers, saws and ensilage cutters. Along the way there was also a wrought iron nail maker and gasoline engines, including the Ruggles. Over a half century, with help from his sons, Leonidas and Albert Y., Gray's products were sold around the world, all made in a little town in Vermont. For a wonderfully detailed and informative discussion of A. W. Gray & Son products and history, check out this page at the STEAM TRACTION website. When Albert discovered mineral springs (that had been lost during an 1811 flood), the town was renamed Middletown Springs, Vermont. The enterprising Grays began bottling and selling the spring water and in 1870 built a hotel to encourage tourism. Competition from nearby John Deere and other large farm machine manufacturers, led to the Gray family's decision in 1917 to close the doors. It must have been a difficult choice, knowing the impact it would have on their hometown. Today's Middletown Springs is nearly as isolated as it was 150 years ago, encircled by mountains and the Poultney River. Its approximately 900 residents concentrate on dairy farming and enjoying the historic remnants of a prior century. In fact, most of the village is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A story in the RUTLAND HERALD sheds more light on the founding of Middletown Springs and its history. And the Middletown Springs Historical Society website offers photos from the past and today.