The Empire tractors were built after WWII starting with surplus Jeep parts. The engine, steering, transmission were all Jeep parts. In 1946 production of the model 88 was started in Philadelphia with 5300 tractor being exported overseas. They were started in connection with the Marshall plan to help war torn countries rebuild. The Empire tractors were never meant to be sold in the US & Canada! A total of about 6600 tractors were built with1294 model 90's being sold in the US & Canada after the company went bankrupt. At this time, according to the Empire Tractor Club it is believed that only 400-450 Empire tractors still exist!
Personally, I had been on the hunt for another more "unusual" small tractor. I spotted this one a couple of months ago but didn't care for the price, recently the price was dropped, so I contacted the seller and picked it up 9/8/25. A 400 mile round trip with a friend to do some of the driving. This 1947 Model 90 has an older restoration, but is in good shape for it's age! The second seat has been added, the tool box is a reproduction, nearly new front tires. The rear tires are weather cracked, new ones are on order.
I'll post more as it progresses.
Personally, I had been on the hunt for another more "unusual" small tractor. I spotted this one a couple of months ago but didn't care for the price, recently the price was dropped, so I contacted the seller and picked it up 9/8/25. A 400 mile round trip with a friend to do some of the driving. This 1947 Model 90 has an older restoration, but is in good shape for it's age! The second seat has been added, the tool box is a reproduction, nearly new front tires. The rear tires are weather cracked, new ones are on order.
I'll post more as it progresses.
