Historic agricultural machine returns home to Bratton

A restored piece of agricultural machinery built at the former Bratton Iron Works has returned to the village for a special display.

The Reeves Elevator was displayed in the car park of The Duke Inn while en route to its new home at the farm of Reeves Iron Works collector Ray Davis.

The elevator was designed by Henry Reeves in 1896 and was the largest machine made by the iron works, which specialised in agricultural equipment.

The works operated in the village for around 100 years before being demolished in 1973. Machinery made by the company was also exhibited at the Great Exhibition at Crystal Palace in Hyde Park in 1851.

Pupils and staff from Bratton Primary School visited the machine and were given a “fascinating” talk about how it was used.

Bob Pearce, from Bratton History Society, also gave the children a tour of the village, pointing out the sites of former Reeves engineering works and showing them old photographs.

“The children all really enjoyed the experience, and presented the experts with lots of interesting questions,” said Louise Bunce from the school.

Bratton Brass Band also performed for villagers visiting the display.

Bratton was once a very industrial village, with the factory buildings of R & J Reeves & Son occupying a prominent position in the centre. The site is now the village green and, in dry weather, the foundations of the works can still be seen after the grass has died back.

Ray Davis is building a collection of Reeves Iron Works products at his farm at Bridge Farm, where the elevator will now be kept. John Drewett, who helped organise the display and move the elevator, has also been involved in bringing the machine back to the village. Visitors will eventually be able to see the collection.