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The model archive
Waterloo Boy
Explore 7 farm tractor models. Follow a model into its engine specifications, transmissions, dimensions, historical photographs, and available test records.
About Waterloo Boy
Waterloo Boy belonged to the Iowa engine and tractor business associated with John Froelich. Deere acquired that business in 1918, establishing an important foundation for its own tractor manufacturing.
- Beginning
- Waterloo Gasoline Traction Engine Company founded in 1893
- Founder / origin
- John Froelich and the Waterloo enterprise
- Known for
- Early gasoline tractors and stationary engines
- Sale / later history
- Purchased by Deere & Company in 1918
History and legacy
The early company struggled to commercialize Froelich’s tractor and concentrated on stationary engines before returning to tractors. Waterloo Boy machines appeared in the early 1910s. Deere’s 1918 acquisition continued that manufacturing lineage; the exact acquisition amount is omitted here because the reviewed accounts differ.
Sources & further reading
- TractorData — Waterloo Boy history and model archive (opens in a new tab)
- John Deere — Waterloo acquisition history (opens in a new tab)
History reviewed 2026-10-20.
Showing 7 of 7 models
N
1917–1924
27 hp
Engine estimate from belt power
2WD Only
Drive
R
1914–1917
27 hp
Engine estimate from belt power
2WD Only
Drive
L
1914
16 hp
Engine estimate from belt power
2WD Only
Drive
LA
1914–1915
16 hp
Engine estimate from belt power
2WD Only
Drive
C
1913
Power not listed
No index power figure
MFWD Optional
Drive
P
1913
Power not listed
No index power figure
Tracks
Drive
Standard
1912
Power not listed
No index power figure
2WD Only
Drive
Index power values can include estimates derived from belt or PTO power. They are identified on each model card and are not interchangeable with a measured engine rating. Model years and missing values follow the source index.