SCIENTIFIC METHODS OF STACK -BUILDING PRICE 50 Cents SCIENTIFIC METHODS OF STACK-BUILDING A Pradiical Stacker's Guide BY J. H. WHITCOMB ALVA. OKLAHOMA RENFREW'S RECORD 19 13 .i X •>^. J. H. WHITCOMB Copyright 1913 by J. H. WHITCOMB Quinlan, Okla. -T) 4 Vp 5?'^^ ^X; PREFACE. A correct statement of the grain produced yearly in the United States is an eye-opener to the averat^e fanner. Tt shows that, after all, it is the farmer who possesses the wealth of the land. Following are the statistics taken from the Crop Reporter of Dec, 1912, published I)y the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture : Crop. Acreage. Production Farm Value Dec. 1st In Bushels. Per Bushel. Total Wheat— 45,814,()0() 7:^(),2()7,0()() .7(1 .i;r)r)5,28( ).()()() Oats— 87,917,000 1,418,337,000 .319-10 452.469,000 Barley— 7.530,000 223,824.000 .50 5-10 112.957,000 Rye— 2.117.000 35.664.000 .66 3-10 23.636.000 Tons. Per Ton Ilay— 49,530.000 72.691.000 11.79 856.695.000 What becomes of this vast amount of product? The wheat, of course, is sold direct, and consumed by man. But most of the oats, !)arley. rye. and hay is consumed by stock on the farm. As a rule the average American farm- er is keenly alive to any waste or loss when it involves the paying out of money direct; but careless regarding loss in his croj). This brings us to the j^oint of view of this book, which is that of great gain by the use of cor- rect and scientific methods, as advocated herein, v^r show- ing up the so prevalent loss, caused by tne poor stacking of hay and grain. To the best of the writer's knowledge, there has Ixhmi no standard method of stacking adopted among farmers, but such knowledge has been gotten "catch as catcli c.in." It is also true that those who havc^ acquii-cd ;i ctM-- tain knowledge of stacking are seldom able to so (^xphiin it to their boys as they grow to manhood oi' to men hired on the ])lac(\ that they can iK^come expert stackers. The silo and the hay bfii'n are of great benefit. l)ut it still remains that a vast quantity of hay and grain must be stacked year after year. This is particularly true of wheat in the great wheat belt of our country, where barns are too inconvenient. The importance of the question, then, is readily seen. Sometimes stacks of grain or hay are so damaged as to be almost entirely lost. It is a fairly safe estimate to say that one-tenth of the hay and grain stacked in the open, spoils and becomes a dead loss. Think what this means; especially when compared with the millions of (h)llars annual income, Avhich we find in the statistics from the office of the Secretary of Agriculture! In the manufacturing world, the difference between success and failure consists in the careful handling of every by-pro- duct, that there may be no loss whatever. If you are los- ing one-tenth of your grain or hay through poor stacking year after year, that tenth means the loss of just so much hard .cash. You have paid for producing it — you have bought the seed, paid for preparing the soil, for the harvesting of the crop, and you get nothing. If a man is just making a comfortable living as it is now, he could have a nice little sum to put into the bank every year if he secured this 10 per cent additional — simply by not al- lowing this great waste by improper stacking. It is to help farmers save this wasted part, which has cost them so much toil and money, that this book is written. The writer has traveled in Kansas, Oklahoma, Iowa and Missouri, and has actually seen such a great loss and Vv^aste both of hay and grain by neglect and poor stack- ing, especially the latter. The greatest loss witnessed in my travels was found in Kansas and Oklahoma, in the "Golden Wheat Belt" of the United States, where wheat is headed or bound and ricked, piled or "dumped," as you might call it, for where the greatest loss occurred til is expression would scarcely be an exaggeration of truth. Scarcely one farmer out of twenty-five does his own stacking; nor does he understand the art. in most cases. Hence he is obliged to trust the preserving of his grain to others who are supposed to have the knowledge of stack- nig hay and grain. In many instances this trust in the other party has cost him dearly. Yet in the rush of a great harvest, Avhere a large acreage is to be cared for, men plunge headlong into the cutting and stacking, striving each day for a big day's cutting, not thinking that the rain in one night might destroy the full day's cutting, if not the entire crop, scarcely noticing the way their wheat or other crop is stacked or cared for. Since seeing so much damage, so much entire waste and loss in the past ten years of my life, i have given time .to a special study of this work, hoping to aid in correcting this great error, and I here give to the public my Avork. J. H. WHITCO.AIB. INTRODUCTION. In order to explain how to build a stack, it is neces- sary to present hereAvith some diagrams. In the stacking and preserving of bonnd grain, the drawings are in the form of diagrams, using numbers and letters in locating positions describing these scientific (though simple) methods of stacking. The following work is intended to take the bundles as they leave the binder and trace them until they are threshed, giving complete information as to the proper care in handling the grain. Another introduction rela- tive to the subjects of hay or loose grain will be given later in the book at the beginning of such work. On accoiuit of the great amount of bound grain, and also the large amount of moisture in localities where the binder is extensively used, I have taken the time to learn the art of stacking and caring for bundle grain. Hence in my study I have adopted simple diagrams to explain in part the simple methods of caring for the bound grain, and hope to pVoduce a work that will be of great benefit and of much saving to the many farmers who are yearly subject to loss by poor methods in preserving their grain. J. H. WHITCOMB. Part I Eiag-raiii No. 1 shows m shock of hoiiiul grain in a comm :)n way of shocking, to be h4't some time in the Held. Notice the bundles are placed Avith tlie heads of grain up, thus leaving the butt ends of the sheaves to the ground. Also notice the tops of the l)undles are matted tightly together, making them firm and strong, thus be- ing self-sui)porting against winds or rain, being so close t )gether as to shed the water off the grain, not allowing i1 to penetrate to any noticeable depth. While the tops are matted together, the butts of the bundles are slightl}^ spread apart, as if bracing or supporting each other. This brace-like position of each bundle not only acts as a support in holding the hsock. ])ut is of great benefit in time of storms, winds, etc. The slanting position of the l>nndle also acts as a drain to lead the water outward and away from the shock. Some men carelessly i)ile the bundles one upon anoth- er. and any way to get along, in order to keep up with the binder, sometimes even grain end down. Hence the grain Avill soon rot and spoil. The grain should never be placed beneath or on the damp earth, but always up so the sun can dry it. The aid of the calm,, gentle breeze also is of great benefit in drying the sheaves when prop- erly set up. When the sheaves are laid on the ground, the mice rind other field pests have a better chance to do damage, and often burrow and destroy great quantities. Why should grain be shocked before it is stacked or threshed ? In answer I would say : First, in most in- stances the straw is gr^en and damp, so by shocking, the sheaves have a chance to cure thoroughly. Second, there is not time for the farmer to stop his binder in order to stack the grain. Again, it would not do to stack on ac- count of being too green and sappy. Therefore he must wait a short time before stacking or threslilng, since the sheaves should be thoroughly dry before the grain is in condition to stack or thresh, else the green straw and the moisture together would cause the grain to heat and rot either in the stack or in the bin after it is threshed. Often when grain or hay is not shocked or stacked correctly, the wind throws it down, scattering the bun- dles or hay about, leaving it exposed to the rain and dirt, which do great damage in a short time. The Avind naturally should help dry the sheaves, and aid in curing them out, ready to be threshed, but in order to get it's benefit, one should always be sure to get the shocks firm- ly built. Then the sunshine with a soft, gentle breeze, soon dries the sheaves out, and puts them in readiness to be stacked or threshed. Before we learn about stacking, let us learn a little more about the shocks, and especially the bundles. If you should go near a shock in your field or your neighbors. and look at it closely, you would see that the bundles —8— may not all ai)pear to be shaped alike; some flat, some round, while others are yet different in a[)pearanee; but if you go to where the binder is working and pick the bundles up immediately after they have been throwin from the machine, and examine them all carefully, you will see that they are all exactly (or should be, if the binder is working properly) alike. You will now ask: "What causes them to look so different in the shock?" In order to answer your question, we will need to go back to where the bundles are freshly laid in the wind- row, shortly after the binder has thrown them. Pick out three or four at least, and examine them closely. They are ail alike. You will notice they all have a flat side, and also a rounding side opposite. The butts of the straw are almost event. Turn them all on their flat sides — now they all look alike. Turn some of them on their roiuid side, some edgeways, etc. Now look at them close- ly, and you will observe the answer to your question, as to why they look so different in the shock. SHOCKING BUNDLES. In shocking grain, the round side of the sheaves or bundles should always be i)laced toward the outside of the shock; because the flat side of the bundles are more apt to take water. Another reason is ; the bundles always })lace closer together when placed with the flat side in. This causes the shock to become more firmly built, and the ])etter the shock is built, the better it will stand against storms, Avind, rain, etc. Some men never think about the storm or sucli dam- ages that might occur if the shocks are not built up firnv ly, but hurriedly put the bundles up any way they come to them, then rush on to the next windrow to commence biiilding another shock, and by so doing they pay little or no attention to the way the sheaves are or should be set u]). In til is way they get some liundles set up right. hut some wrong; hence this is why the shock is so liable to blow down, and also why the sheaves do not look alike in the shock. After the shock has become settled, the bottoms of the bundles coming in contact with the ground, changes their shape slightly. The straw settling tightly to the earth causes the inner sides of the bundle to become shorter at the bottom than on the outer side (shorter from the twine band down only.) We will learn to use this difference in length later, when commencing to stack. QUESTIONS ON ABOVE LESSON. Why do we shock our grain ? Why not take the wheat, as soon as cut and bound, and stack or thresh it? Why not place the heads of grain down to the earth in shocking? Why not heap piles of sheaves, and then by and by by haul them to the machine or stack them? What effect has the wind on shocks which are not built correctly? What effect has the moist earth on all bundles that are down ? What effect has the rain? The sun? Why? How? HOW TO STACK. Since we have learned about the shape of the bun- dles, and how they should be shocked, also why we shock our grain, and about the dangers that often happen when grain is not properly shocked, and the principal ways of caring for the grain up until it should be placed in the stack or threshed, we now must learn how to preserve our grain by placing it in the stack. By learning this art of stacking, we can stack our own hay and grain without —10— depending on others, and by knowing how to staek our grain correctly we always can feel safe and know our hay or grain is not going to rot and spoil; while if anoth- er stacks for us Ave can only trust to his knowledge whether he does the work rightly or not. Thus we may, by his negligence or ignorance, sustain great loss in our crop each year. If the hay or grain is not stacked prop- erly, it would be as well left in the field in the shock and thus save the additional loss of labor in hauling and stacking. Men who know the science of stacking are few. and while waiting for a chance to employ a man skilled in this art, there is great loss of time, to say nothing about the chances of loss by storm, wind, or rain. ft can be readily seen, then, why one should have the knowledge of stacking and preserving his own hay or grain ; then he need not depend upon others. Again, as before mentioned, to know that the work is done properly is worth a great deal. We have described the bundles, and also mentioned how they should be cared for up until stacked or thresh- ed. Tt is now that we are ready to illustrate, and tell how iiound grain should be stacked. In Diagram 1 is shown the common method of shock- ing. Wishing to connect this diagram with the simplt method of stacking, we may now turn to Diagram 1 and o])serve the picture of an ideal shock. On Diagram 2 we nxe the shock plan to commence our stai-K foundation. Reo-in with making a shock, then add thereto until the desired size in length and breadth is reached, when the stack ])()ttom will l^e complete. Notice: The shock should always be built the shape the stack is desired to be when complete; for the additional rings of bundles only en- large and expand the shape of shock. The shock should not be made the entire length or breadth the stack is ex- pected to be Avhen complete, for there must be more add- —11— 3na^am- //o a.^ ed on both the ends and the sides. This will be more plainly understood later in this volume. Beginning with letter "A" on Diagram 2, "A" rep- resents the shock or beginning of the stack bottom. As additional rings of bundles are to be used to get the size stack bottom desired, it is convenient to use a series of circles, numbering them in rotation, beginning at "A" and numbering outward; viz. 1-2-3-4-5, etc. until the de- sired size of stack bottom is reached. What we mean hy circles is a ring made up of bun- dles set in a row extending completely around the shock or amount of stack bottom already built. Thus beginning with the shock (A), the first ring of bundles to be added becomes No. 1, making a complete circle around the shock. (Note: This circle may be eith- er completely round when finished, or oblong, oval, or such shape as the stack is wished to be when fully set.) This additional ring or bundles makes the shock (A) ex- —12— paiid in which ever shape the shock may have been made. Being now ready for another additional ring of bun- dles, let it be No. 2, thus forming another complete circle around No. 1, and enclosing within itself the entire amount built this far. After No. 2, we continue Numbers 8, 4, 5, etc. — mak- ing a complete circle each time around -all those before l>uilt. until the stack bottom is as large as desired. Take note that the farther out we build from "A", the more flat a position our l)undles seem to take, imtil the outside ring of bnndles seems to lie so flat as to la]) •jnly al)out half way on the next inner circle, thus making the stack bottom gradually sloping from "A" to our last numl)er, the outer edge. It is this shed-like j)()sition of the bundles throughout the entire stack, after it is com- plete, that makes it waterproof through and through, thus, at all times guiding the water outAvard and off the grain. BUILDING AFTER FOUNDATION IS LAID. Now that we have completed the stack l)ottom, we are ready to commence building on our foundation. Let No. S represent the outside ring of bundles. Then, of course. No. 7 is the next to the last in rotation. Begin- i.'ing at letter "AV", which always represents the wagon's stopping place while unloading, (See Diagram 8), place a l)un(lle lialf way back on No. 8. lapping half way on No. 7, with the grain end toAvard the inner part of the stack always; thus l)reaking joints, the same as a stone mason does in laying l)rick or rock, covering the cracks between Nos 7 and 8. This not only acts to tie the two together, but l)attons and covers the cracks between the two rows of bundles andenienth. This will kee}) the wa- ter from entering the crevices beloAv. Now that we have laid one bundle which will l)e oui' ]:>attern for this row or circle of bundles, which should be })lMeed in this position, make a complete circle around the stack from the wagon (W) returning to the wagon again. Although we use "W" to give us the point where the wagon stops every time, we may also use the same letter C'W") to indicate the point where each circle or ring of bundles will even up, thus completing a circuit around the stack each time, returning to that same point. Simple methods of stacking bundles. l^f-de r n. ^vi nA\e Ho ^la^ram. llo.^3 — I/f^Bk/fb?e^^»» "A" represents the shock or commencement. No. 1 represents the first ring of bundles. No. 2, the second. —14— No. 8, the third. No. 4, the fourth, and so on until the stack is as large as desired. "W" represents the stopping place for wa- gon or the evening-up place for each and every row or ring of bundles. "D" represents the stone mason's way of covering each crack, also a shingler's way of hiding cracks; hence in stacking, D's illustration must be kept in mind, and batten each space between the bundles. See Diagram No. 4. In Diagram 3. we illustrate a stack bottom; "A" representing the shock for the commencement of the stack bottom, as mentioned before. The rings of bundles are represented by circular lines, numbered the same as the rings of bundles. This diagram outlines a round stack, hence the shock (*'A'') takes the shape of the stack as desired when completed. In the above lesson we learned how to lay the foun- dation for the stack, and also had placed one pattern ring of bundles, lapping half way on No. 8, and extending the other part toward the center of the stack, thus, as before mentioned, lapping the grain end on No. 7; both togeth- er, making a complete circle from the wagon ("W") to ''W" again. We are now^ ready to take the next step in stack ]:uilding. Since Ave have laid the foundation and one ring of bundles, the commencement in building, let us adopt a rotation of numbers according to each row or ring of bundles laid; which make a complete circle from the wagon at "W" to "W" again; hence inverting the use and rotation of numbers from that alrepfly used in the construction of the stack bottom. Our first pjittern ring in the commencement of our building on the founda- tion already laid, may now be called No. 1 (Diagram -i.) cle from "W" to "W", as liefore. until each operation is made complete. —15— The next step will be making pattern bund^t- N-v "2. which takes its name from its position in rotation. I.> • this bundle rest half way on pattern bundle No. 1, and e>v- pand the other half toward the center of the stack, this acting as a tie to hold the other rings underneath n.orc firmly, and also battening the cracks as before mentioned. Having placed pattern bundle No. 2, let us make an- other complete ring of bundles, same as pattern, ironi the point " W" returning again to " W", to even and fiii- ish our ring of bundles. The next number adopted is No. 3, taking its position, lapping half way on No. 2, that has just been laid, and extending the other half of the bun- dle toward the center of stack, same as the other rows laid before. After laying the pattern bundle, the entire circle of bundles .^l\ould be laid in like position from "W", returning to "W", to even and finish each circle. The next number in rotation is No. 4. Placing this pattern bundle half its length on No. 8, and extending *he other half toward the center of the stack: after lav ing the pattern bundle make another complete circle, olacing the bundles in like position with the pattern, l)e- -^inning at "W" and ending there, as usual. This method of completing circles of bundles must ')e continued until at last the center of the stack and the bundles of the last circle meet at ends, after which, place a row of bundles tieing the last center ring together, thus completing one operation in stack building. The above is a description of one operation in stack building, which must be remembered, as there will be like operations in the continuing of building after the stack foundation is laid. Now return to the outer edge of the stack. See Diagram 4 for illustration of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th operations. Note that 1st and 3rd are alike; also that 2nd and 4th are alike; thus repeated throughout all remaining operations necessary for the completion of —16— the stack. We have made stair-steps all along; but have battened each and every crack, and the center is become so full there could no water get in as it is now; yet we have not finished our stack; rather only well commenced. We are at the outer edge of the stack at "W", the k^'~sho\^ In^ placing /\ of bundles- X / ^" / o< 3 / r / -' ^ '^g T^ rr? ?7o. /J Wcigon stop, and are ready to proceed in building; hence let us lay another i)attern bundle, but before Ave go any further let us again examine the bundles. You will re- member (in first part of book) that the settling of the straw in the shock caused the bundle to become slightly 17- shorter on one side than on the other. Now we wish to take advantage of this short and long side in our build- ing. Remembering that we had gotten to the outer edge of the stack after completing the first operation in stack building, and ready for another pattern bundle, place a bvuidle with the long side UP (thus leaving, necessarily, the short side down) to the entire outer edge of the stack. This will mean that the bundle will lap half way. or nearly so. on Xo. 1 of the above operatio. and extend to the entire outer edge of the stack (butts out.) By laying the short side down, and the long side up. the difference in the length of the straw tends to widen and expand the stack slightly. This plan, being simple, will, if continued, build a nice bulge or swell on the stack; hence by this knowledge, one does not need to make a large stack bot- tom in order to preserve an average amount of grain. Naturally the bottom of the stack, which generally rests on the damp earth, will often rot to some xtent, so you see the advantage in a small stack-bottom; then bulging the stack spreads it wider so it will hold a greater quan- tity of grain. Yet no one should widen to a greater ex- tent than is necessary, because of winds. Too small a stack bottom for that body mighty cause the stack to be blown down. Remember each ring of bundles that is placed to the outer edge of the stack should be carefully placed with the long side up in order to gain the ])roper bulge at a desired height according to size of stack. After this height is accomplished, turn the bundles of the outside rings over, with the short side up. This will draw the stack in. This method of drawing in will bring the stack gradually to a top. This can be guaged as desired. Having mentioned the pattern bundle at the outer edge of the stack, and described how it should be laid, with the long sde up and to the entire outer edge of the —18— stack, we have thus begun another operation in stack- buikling, and l)y so doing cancelled the other operation just laid or built. Let us now make a complete ring of bundles like the pattern bundle at the outer edge, and hy so doing make a neat outline of the outer edge of the stack, beginning at "W" and evening up at "W" again (at wagon stop) each time as before. Naming this new start of a new operation in building, after having cancel- led the old. we will call this first ring of bundles No. 1. The next pattern bundle. No. 2, will take its position half way its length on No. 1, newly laid, and extend the other half toward the center of the stack, the same as the method used in the foregoing operation. After laying the pattern bundle, proceed each time to make a complete circle from "W" to "W". to even up each time ready for another pattern Inmdle. The next pattern bundle will be. No 3; its position will be half it-s length on No. 2. and the other half toward the center of the stack the same as before. 31ake a com- plete circle from " W" to." W" again. This method must be continued until the center of the stack is tilled the same as the previous operation. This completes the sec- ond operation in stack building of bundle grain. See Di- agram 4. showing first and second operations. The next operation in stack building v\nll take the same position as the entire first operation, which begaa (,n the foundation. Thus its first pattera bundle, taking its position half a bundle's length on No. 1, of the second operation, v/hich is fresh before us, and lapping the other end toward the center of the stack. After this pattern liuidle is laid, we remember each time to complete a cir- Circle after circle of bundles is made around the stack until the center is made, and tied there; after Avhich we reiurn to the outer edge of the stack to commence another operation in stack building. By this method we break joints, ])atten cracks, and — 19— tie the rows of bundles together like a stone mason strengthens his wall, until our stack is firmly built. Now we have completed the third operation. })ut found it ex- actly like the first one built, after and on the foundation. We are now ready for the fourth. The fourth operation will be like the second, hence we remember the shape of the bundles, and how they are used to either widen or draw the stack in, according as we desire. Also remember that the pattern bundle to start the second operation began at the extreme outer edge, in order to make and build up the sides (or form) so we place the pattern bundle wnth the long side up to widen and bulge the stack slightly, the same as in opera- tion No. 2. After this pattern bundle is laid we knoAV how to proceed to make a complete circle each time the same as before; hence naming the first ring of bundles of each operation No. 1; numbering each new operation in proper rotation until all operations in stack building are completed. Repeating this method of starting each operation with the pattern (or first) bundle half a bun- dle's length in from the outer edge of the stack, then secondly to the outer edge to make the form — back and forth, first one and then the other position chosen, until the stack is completely built. Note: When the stack is bulged wide enough by the lead of the bundle's length, one should not forget to turn the bundles over with the short side up, so as to draw in, nnd by drawing in we make a nice, neat top on the ''tack. Thus, by repeated operations as described the stack is completed. Note : After this method is understood and practic- ed awhile, one can as readily lay two rows of bundles at a time as to lay one; hence (by laying two rows or cir- cles at a time) much speed can be added so the above knowledge and the expertness in the art of stacking will —20— at the same time be accomplished. This means a saving of the grain, a saving of time, a saving of money paid out for hired help; and it means too, that the farmer may be independent of such help, which is— at best— uncertain and apt to be inefficient. —21— Part II HAY OR LOOSE GRAIN. Introduction. In order to explain how to build a stack, it has v. ^ E D C B A B CD —22— come necessary to present some diagrams or charts. In the study of Geography, we learn of the horizontal and perpendicular lines, both used in locating places on the globe, and dividing distances either east or west; n- '"tli or south. As the horizontal lines run east and west on the maps, and the perpendicular lines are drawn north and south, it is convenient for us to use the same names to describe in part these simple methods of stacking and preserving both hay and grain. See Diagram No. 1 in "Play or Loose Grain." N. B. In the following diagrams we place the h*.ter "p" in connection with those letters (A, B, C, etc.) which are at the base of perpendicular lines, in order to indicate ''perpendicular." A similar use is made of the ■"h" to indicate "horizontal." In all stacking herein described, the letter "A" rep- resents the center of stack from bottom to top. As most hay or loose grain is stacked or built in a rick-like form, the diagrams are drawn so as to apply to the end ol the rick; this would mean either end or thoroughout the en- tire rick from end to end. (See Diagram No. 2.) We use the perpendicular lines in our diagran.s for the purpose of calculating the height, their stations for evening up points, in the averaging up of the width of the rick or stack; hence they are not only used in height but in width. For example: from "A" to "F" is 7 1-2 feet ; then from F-p to F-p is 15 feet ; etc. Diagram No. 1 is drawn for the purpose of introduc- ing the horizontal lines, only giving three perpendicular lines. A-p and F-p — F-p on either side of the center A-p. As we have become acquainted with the "operation" — our use of it — used to describe a certain course of work accomplished, we now desire to use it in the stackin.g of hay or loose grain. The horizontal lines are used to describe the amount of hay or straw placed in and where it should be placed, —23— and when to place it to make the work a success; hoi'.ce they are numl)erecl in rotation from 1 to 5 (see Diagram No. 1) and all are different lengths. Their positions dif- fer, except at the center of the rick, at "A" where all balance. Diagram No. 2 shows all the lines, both hori- zontal and perpendicular. The horizontal lines by num- bers from 1 to 5, take their places according to stations at the perpendiculars. The perpendicular lines running up and down are F E" D —24— P B f set 1 foot 6 inches apart, and are named alphalietieally A, B. C. I), E, F. on either side, being 1 1-2 feet apart, making the stack 15 feet wide. This width would be called rather too wide in some places, while in others would be only an average width. The width and size of the stack may be ganged to any chosen size. The Dia- gram is only for the purpose of introducing the proper — scientific — methods for building stacks. First notice the horizontal line. No. 1, extending lirom F-p to F-p, the entire width of the stack ; from out- side to outside. This is for the purpose of impressing an idea : that- the straw should be strewn evenly from side to side, completing the stack bottom, always outlin- ing the form of the stack or rick. This is the description of one step in stack building. New beginners in stacking should take great care to always get the straw placed evenly. Remember, if in doubt as to its evenness, for a safeguard against mistakes there may be a slight amount added to the center to make sure the outer edge is not too full. Next notice horizontal line No. 2, which only extends as far out as E-p on either side; hence giving an illustra- tion as to how far out a layer of straw should be placed from the center on either side. Since the position has been chosen for a layer of straw, we may proceed to spread the straw evenly as far out as the outline. The object in spreading the straw evenly is to not leave any wads or bunches, which would cause holes, or indenta- tions, in the stack, which naturally would result in great danger of both settling incorrectly and taking and re- taining the water from rainfall. This outlines and de- scribes the second step in building stacks of Hay or Loose Grain. The third step is like the second. The horizontal line No. 3 only extends from D-p to D-p, on either side from A-p, the center perpendicular. We notice D-p is another —25— chosen distance toward the center. After the outline has been determined, in mind, we may proceed to complete a layer of straw within its bounds, this time being only from D-p to D-p. It is always found best to make a filling of each lay- er at the center of the stack first, then continue out as far as the chosen distance. The next step in stack building is horizontal line "H" (No. 4), its boundary line being at perpendicular C-p, and extending to C-p on the opposite side. We now complete another la3^er in the same steps before outlined, after which the horizontal line No. 5, will be our next step. Its outline or boundary is at perpendicular B-p, ex- tending only the width from B-p to B-p. showing how I'ar out from the center A-p the straw should be placed in each step. Its outline or boundary is at perpendicular B-p, extending only the width from B-p to B-p, showing how far out from the center A-p the straw should be placed in each step of stack building. Horizontal line No. 5 shows the center filling, and it should be more full in the center at A-p than at its boundary lines at B-p on either side. After the center is filled, at the fifth step in our stack-building, we find we have completed one operation in stacking. This is the adoption of the "Scientific Meth- ods in stacking." Either hay or loose grain may be stack- ed according to the above rales. One operation having been made complete, we notice we have completed the watershed (See Diagram No. y.) In Diagram No. 3, each operation in stack-building is ac- compaiiied by watershed lines, shoAving how the stack, v\'hen built according to the "Scientific Methods of Stacking," ahvays sheds the water. Since we have laid the foundation, and have an idea as to why this manner of illustration is taken; also that we have completed one operation in stack-building, we —26— are now ready to begin another operation in building, which will be exactly like the first (See Diagram Xo. 2.) l^eginning with the horizontal line No. 1, spreading the straw from side to side, outlining the stack, next horizon- tal No. 2, one point in at E-p, the next No. 3 at D-p, the next No. 4 at C-p, the next B-p No. 5, the filling of the center from B-p to B-p. completing another operation. In this manner one operation after another may be complet- ed, the watershed lines established throughout the entire stack. This simple method of stacking makes the stack waterproof from bottom to top. The topping out of the stack is only a drawing in at a desired height for the square, and does not interfere with the plan of the use of the horizontal lines and oper- ations in building, but only shortens their length to suit the slope of the top. The steep, high top is not the kind of a top desired. as it has proven more apt to tilt by winds, and is very in- convenient to build. The oval shaped top on a stack is far better, on account of its durability in storms, and also its convenience to build. The adoption of the "Scientific Methods of Stack- ing" is the plan to make a stack waterproof throughout, from bottom to top. The water lines show the drainage of every operation in the building of the stack. After each operation in this simple method of stack- ])ui]ding, the stack appears still to be almost level, and an observer, who does not understand this method, would think there was fully as much straw at the outer edge as toward the center. (See Diagram No. 4.) The straw be- ing tread in, forms a greater degree of compactness to- ward the center than at the outer edge, hence the latter is loose and fluffy. Being webbed together, it holds the form of the stack ; yet, when settled, the straw at outside droops far below that of the inner straw, and drains the water off the entire stack. —27— / ^ J i ^ \ ^^^ * ^v^ ^^^^^"^ ^\^ ^^^ \. ^,^ ^ ^ ^^ r\ V, >^ — ^, "-V. *' ^v,^ ^^ ^"\ ^ ^ ~^ ^ '^^ ^^ . V \ "^v^ \^ ^ in <: 3f^ //e. A fft: 3ft Sft. The point is, the outside being not tread upon, re- mains unsettled during the time of building, hence natur- ally holds its web-work fluffed up only a short time ; so we see why there appears to be as much straw on the out- side as toward the center. The builder remembers where every forkfull has been placed, and if he be in doubt at any time, there is one waj^ to be sure of how the stack is going up, and that is to "see as the blind man sees"; the way of determin- ing this is to walk over the straw and by its firmness or looseness find the places where more straw is needed. -28- This may be done at any time of doiil)t. and if followed will save many mistakes; sneh as leaving holes in the stack, or too much straw in some places. Naturally, the more evenly the straw is placed, the nicer the stack Avill ■;ettle and as a result a better job of stacking will follow. By this plain method we provide for the drainage of the water always toward the outer edge of the stack, and by draining the water off the grain, we leave no chance for it to penetrate into the stack deeply enough —29— to do any damage. The wind and sun soon dries the outer edge of the stack, and the inside is always dry and fresh. As it has been remarked for an illustration, the hair of a horse or cow is short but, since it slants downward, the water of a shower only follows the hair which slopes doA^Ti and soon runs off, leaving the horse or cow dry in a very short time. Before taking up the work any further, we wish to make phiin the use of the horizontal and perpendicular lines, Avhich will be a great benefit in stack building. We have learned their names and numbers — ^.the perpendicu- lars: A, B, C, D, E, and F, alphabetically; the numbers: 1. 2, 8, 4, 5, in rotation — and why they are used, to some extent, but we will learn more to profit by their use. Calling your attention to Diagram No. 4. This dia- gram is drawn to show an illustration of the denseness and amount of straw tread in at the given points. Also to give an idea as to how the straw should be built before it settles. The horizontal lines show the position of the straw while the perpendicular lines are placed in to mag- nify the denseness of the straw at given points. Bear in mind the denseness. of the straw shouhl be greatest at the center of the stack; the builder making a gradual blend in compactness from center to the outer edge of the stack. The center being already compact and settled to some extent, the outside is yet unsettled. The denseness is caused by the use of more straw in the center. The outer edges of the stack will soon settle, thus mashing the straw together firmly, and while set- tling will droop below the inner straw and drain the wa- ter off the grain. See Diagram 5. Not forgetting that A-p ahvays represents the center of the stack, or rick, we notice from A-p to B-p shows the densest part of the stack, more dense at "A". Again, from B-p to C-p is slightly thinner, thus showing a less amount of straw re(iuired to be built in at this point. —30— t B f{ V ZJDia grants Ua.jr^ Then from C-p to D-p is still thinner; or less compact, showing a less amount of straw required to be built in, etc.. the better, so long as the outside form may be held, l)ut one should always guard this in building. Each step from the center of the stack toward the outeredge there should be less straw filled in, and less compact in ])uilding, so as to leave the outer parts room to settle be- low those inside the stack. Then after the straw settles, the straw at the outer edge will droop outwardly and thus drooping will cause the water to follow the slant of the straw, and by so doing, drain the water off the grain. The above illustration (Diagram No. 4) shows how close the straw is built in toward the center, also that it becomes gradually thinner toward the outer edge of th,e stack. Yet it appears to hold its position on a level be- cause the straw has not yet settled. Now that the build- ing is new, the form is so w^ebbed together as to hold its position on a level with that of the inner parts. One who does not understand the simple method of stacking here outlined, would look at a stack thus Iniilt and think there was as much straw at the outer side of the stack as there was in the center, but the builder knoAvs where the straw is all placed. NoAV that the entire stack must settle, wenotice from A-p to B-p that there is not much room to settle (See Dia- gram No. 4). Then from B-p to C-p the straw has slight- ly more room to settle, and from C-p to D-p there is still more room to settle, etc. Yet the greatest space to settle is the outer edge from E-p to F-p, which is the most es- sential j^art to be sure of. Some stackers use the outside w^eb, altogether, for the protection and drainage for the entire stack: the,v fill the center as though they were dumping in a load, then shielding it by the outer edge; the dropping of the straw at the outer edge, only, being used as a safeguard. This plan is not advisable at any time. To the new be- ginner, I would say: Do not depend upon any such methods, but take the simple methods outlined, as a whole. (See correct way of stackiiig. Diagram 6, the drainage being always to the outer edge. Notice the wa- ter lines, roof-like in position.) Note that at ANY height you find this perfect roof-like form of building to be the same. Since by these simple methods of stack-building and preserving grain we have shown a correct way of stack- —82— ^D ( d ci" r£3 /iM_ }{ ing. I wish now to call your attention to the wrong and dangerous ways of stacking-, so often supposed to be all right, and even good, but which are not, but often de- ceive many farmers. The so-called "Form without a Principle." Calling your attention to Diagram 7, we show the outside form of a stack completed, apparently the ideal type; yet in its principle of stacking it is exactly upside down, the outer edges having been carried up neatly, being tread upon, causing them to become compact and settled, while the middle of the stack has been left to be filled up as it may —33— D C ^ A B t happen, ''take care of itself," as some term it; hence as the stack must yet settle, we then find, after the center has settled, that the water lines run IN, leading the wa- ter into the center of the stack. This is the cause of much of the great damage that farmers often experience. The water sinks into the stack and spoils the grain or hay. How could anyone expect his hay or grain to keep when built up in such a manner"^ Yet you may say: ''The man. whoever he may be, built me a nice, neat looking stack." Tru(\ the stack may have a very neat —84— nhape when finished, but this is not the (juestion. Will the grain or hay keep? No. no, I say a thousand times NO ! The moisture is what causes the hay or grain to rot and spoil, and if let into the stack, will certainly spoil the grain or hay. See Diagram 7 for illustration. Now turu the plate over top side down, and see if the stack has not been built, in principle, upside down, after it has settled. See the water lines in particular, showing the drainage toward inside instead of having thrown drain- age all to the outer edge, as per Diagram H. We have been learning about ricks principally, for ricks are most commonly used, and have been showing the Diagrams in end views of ricks, but you will readily perceive that the principles in these drawmgs will apply just as well to round or oval stacks. The drawings are as though we could see the con- tents of the entire rick or stack all through, from end to end, which is true according to the diagrams. One end should not differ from the other, except for a slight dif- ference at each end which will be mentioned independ- ently from the foregoing illustrations. In order to get a more thorough and complete idea of how to build the ends and sides combined, and how to stack more accurately, it has become necessary to in- troduce another diagram in connection with the ones al- ready in use. See Diagram 8. This diagram illustrates the entire bottom of a rick. N. B. If round stack is preferred, the lines would necessarily take a circular position in proportion to the shape of stack desired. See round stacks, bound grain, etc. The ends should be built with a web-like arrange- ment into the sides, but may be trod upon near the out- er edge. When speaking in this manner in regard to the sides as compared with the ends, the ends would be like the sides, except that in a rectangular stack the sides —35— ^ ^ JO C B A BCUEF Tf^t 1/ /is strait ion. os- STt^t-K 'B<»^^oMn^ , must draw m to make a top. whil- the ends should be carried up full aud straight. The lines used in the Diagram 8 ail lay flat on the ground, outlining the bottom of the stack. The letters: A, B, D, and F are chosen to represent the setting of cor- responding perpendiculars (A-p, B-p, etc.,) thus leaving out the perpendiculars 'J and E, yet using the ones chos- en for the purpose of locating positions. The lines in the —36— (liagrain are horizoiital in position, ^et only are used for a base, or settin*^, for the corresy/onding perpendiculars used; hence the line "A" rmniing from end to end, rep- resents the center of the rick or center setting for A-p ; the letter B representing the setting for B-p ; then, omit- ting C, we next have letter D, which is for the setting of l)-p ; then, omitting E, we next come to letter F, which, according to all digrams in hay or loose grain, repre- sents the outer edge of the stack. The line across the end is for the purpose of getting an idea how close one should come to the end without breaking it out, thuK making the end more compact than the sides at the out- er edges of the stack. The ends need to settle slightly as well as the sides, in order to give drainage, but not as nui'di is recpiired as for the sides. Remember to be sure and build the end up straight; do not drain it like the sides while forming a top on the stack. We have learned the f)rinciple of how much straw or liay, should be tread or placed in their proper places and how it should be stored in the stack. Xow, T wish to introduce you to a more (juick and accurate method; holding to the knowledge we have gained of the simple methods of stacking. I wish to in- troduce to you the "Hurl Fork ^lethod. " This is why the a])ove diagram has been introduced. (See Diagram 8.) Thus 'explaining all the secrets of quick and accurate building of stacks without doubting our own work, for we know that we cannot see how many straws are in the stack, or just where the most are. We have learned that some of the most perfectly shaped stacks have proven to be stacked altogether wrong (Diagram 7), upside down in principle, yet thej' appear from a distance to be the real ideal (See Diagram 6 for the ideal way and compare the two together.) The "Hurl Fork" will come to u? 'nter in the volume as we have need of it. Drawing yoar attention again to Diagram 8, let "A" —37— line represent the center of the riek, then from A to B represents a margin over a foot in distance. From B to B, say 2 1-2 feet; then, skipping C, we find from B to D is — on each side of the rick — about 2 3-4 feet, and from D to F is 3 feet, making the stack 14 feet wide from F to F. We have learned that the straw shouhl be more com pact at the center of the stack, at "A"; and less so at the edge — F; thus giving the outer edge more opportuni- ty to settle. The lines A, B, D and F are for the setti/ig of the corresponding perpendiculars A-p, B-p, D-p and F-p, as introduced in the foregoing chapters. Now w- are ready to commence stack-building. Let the first load of straw or hay extend from F to F, the entire width of the stack desired to be built. Tins will form the outline for the size of stack wished for. laying it nicely and evenly throughout. If uncertain as to the evenness of the amount, you may feel more safe to place a little heavier layer at the center. A. Next load may be placed from E-p to E-p, spreading evenly throughout the entire circle between the above parallels. The next load or layer should be placed from D-p to Dj). (See Diagram 8 for D-p's setting, also others mentioned.) The settings represent points on the stack for circuits for walking, except the outer one, (F-p) which should not be tread uDon at any time during stack-building, but only l)e a form ])uilt up with a fork. The setting of D-p is as far out, commonly speaking, as one should ever tread. The next circuit of walking will be found at B-p, and tho last of an operation in building at A-p, the ''enter o stack or rick. (See Diagram 1 and 2.) The next layer is from C-p to C-p and the next from B-p t!) B-p ; thus after filling center we find Ave have com- pleted one operation. Note : By the use of the circuits. Diagram S, show- ing the only places necessary to walk in quick stacking much time and work may be saved. —38— —39— and dependable; but to the new beginner this method possibly would not ))e readily understood, or its s!eii;1r learned at once; hence the simple methods adopted wiii gradually develop one's knoweldge to the point wIk re the whirl fork will come "handy and natural," learnino Its use without realizing Avhen or how; only accepttuig the motto: ''Learn to Do by Doing." In order to use the whirl fork through the stack, ii is always necessary that the hay or straAv should be pitchet". in the center of the stack, thus heaping fuH the middle at A-p. like the topping out of a stack, only not so great a slant; then working enough loose straw to the ed^e hy the use of the fork, to bring the edge to a level with th( middle, and by the turn of the fork making a tangled mat, composing the outer form of the stack, this mat al- ways being tangle-tied with the straAV toward the cenier. Bear in mind the outer edge should never be tread upon, but left to settle and droop the straw to form a draitiag-^ for all rainfall. Some men mistake what the whirl fork is used for. or how it should be used. They grasp with their for]v a large wad-like bimcli and carry it to the edge of t'.(^ stack, placing it there to outline the form; they even tread upon it to be sure their edge is solid. By this un- thoughtful manner many a loss has occurred Placing a Avad of straw at the outer edge will cause the edge to set- tle unevenly. Moreover, it will pack spots on the edge so it will hold its position, leaving the inner parts to set- tle, thus as sppken of before, the water will follow the slant of the straw and will enter the stack, causing much damage by rot; and consequently much loss. In the mat- ter of this very erroneous method causing much loss m the stacking of grain and hay; we call your attention to the water lines. Diagram 7. for instance. Now, notice the •ight way. Diagram fJ. and you will see plainly the dif- ference. Another mistake in stacking is caused by the lazmess 0— Now, we have laid the foundation, which is the greatest part, for without a good foundation the ])uihling wouhl he rather uncertain, as in any other instance of huilding. Not only has the foundation been laid, but one operation in stack-building been completed, and we are ready to begin anutlier. which will be in like manner as the one just finished. Beginning with a complete layer from F-p to F-p, next layer from E-p to E-p, the next will be at D-p to D-p, this being our walking circuit (see Diagram 8), and as near the outer edge as one need to tread in quick, ac- curate stacking. Outside of this point all straw may be placed with the scattering hurl fork, so as to form a mat, holding the form firmly together. The next step we will be at our circuit B-p, placing our straw out as far as C-p, making a complete layer from this point to the inner center of stack; This layer being complete, we may place a layer up and down the center, reaching from B-p to B-p, treacling this time on what is laid, this being the center of rick from end to end. Now that this method has been adopted, we will continue in like manner of walking our circuits and fill- ing each operation, beginning with 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, which are the horizontal fillings (See Diagram 1 and 2.) THE HURL FORK. The so-called Hurl Fork is the process of workinij the straw or hay from the center of the stack toward the outer edge; and by this turn of the fork always evening the outer edge. Not only making the outward form from F-p to F-p, but levelling the stack ready tor more straw or hay. Some men who are greatly skilled in stacking, adopi the whirl tork theory altogether, and depend upon it throughout the entire stacking. This is, to the scientihc tttacker, a remarkable way of stacking, being accurate or carelessness of so many neglecting their work, instead of evenly scattering their hay so it will settle evenly. They push great wads or bunches here and there through- out the stack, leaving it to settle full of holes and unev- en, thus leaving indentations for the water to settle in and damage the grain or hay. As mentioned before, there is only one way to tell correctly if the stack is being evenly built — a proper amount of straw in its proper place; and that is to "See as the blind man sees." This way may be accomplished only by treading the entire stack, except on the outer edge, which should never be tread upon luitil it settles of its own accord. Always remember and refer to the dia- grams for amount of straw placed, and where. The topping out is not all at once, but a gradual oval- like drawing in of the edges, a continuing of the opera- tion of this "Scientific Method" plan until at last the top becomes a perfect mat, the joining together of the two mat edges. After the stack has once settled, wind or rain has almost NO effect. J. H. WHITCOMB. -42- MAY '• '"•« J6i'y^''^'i: LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 4 ♦l'*l..4. ■4- :4;W,;iLM ■ ff* '^ "it H ^f '4' M ^M[ \ V| i| ."I ill ^4 H ''^; ''^ "4 ■i -n ^^ ;/f -M^ i^fs ;?i *f| 'i i '■*C 4 ^4 4 .;t 'A ■< -fS ^'' f Hf-Hl >«i 'sf Hf ;"rf >!.^ ■'!/ ■>5- ■;■»& iff ,>§ i?^ T?^ IsC '^^ ' - '■'t,^.}% A :''h. :% }% .4, *4^t:, ' m: .m. . .J?;. ;«[ sni \x '4 J'l ^^ i*^^ t'l^ ■'-?; 'i . - c% :t 'w :^f k^'^rt* "j^ M itff 1^ i?^ k '^c w ^^^ ^^-^#r■i!» -W; Vcf nfi ^,sT -.UT ■.?" "ar -iif '