Daniel Best Steam Tractor

Among the Oakland Museum's collections is the Daniel Best steam traction engine. Built in San Leandro by the Daniel Best Steam Traction Co. (ca. 1903-1907), this tractor was originally used in hauling logs for the California Sugar and White Pine Lumber Company in Shasta County. It is rated at 110 horsepower, weighs 19 tons and stands 17 feet eight inches tall. Given to the museum in 1977, the "Best" was restored by Oakland Museum staff and volunteers. Today, the Daniel Best steam traction engine is housed at the Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont, California where a dedicated group of museum volunteers maintains and operates the Best tractor. The public is invited to see this magnificent machine in operation on several days during the year. The steam tractor is scheduled to be fired up on:

June 12 & 13 from 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
July 3 & 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
September 4 - 6 from 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Oct. 9 & 10 from 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Please call Ardenwood Historical Farm at 510/796-0663 for further information.