The “Iron Maiden” steam traction engine was designed and built by Stephen J. King, of Florida, in 2008. The reversible double acting engine has a .4-inch bore, 1.25-inch stroke, and a 25:1 drive ratio with a clutch. It is about 14 inches long and runs on water and anything that burns clean. A small pump just ahead of the right wheel feeds oil through the bearings and crankshaft and returns to the reservoir above the pump. The crankshaft is machined from tool steel with the remaining parts machined from aluminum and stainless steel. It took Stephen over two years to build. The engine is 18″-long, 8″-wide, 7″-high, and weighs 4 lbs.

The design has a very modern and aggressive look compared to the taller, more traditional farm steam traction engines of the past. It has more the look of a steam traction dragster and is beautifully finished in black and silver.

Exhibit added: August 1, 2011 - Last modified: March 22, 2023

Presented by The Joe Martin Foundation for Exceptional Craftsmanship