One of the most unique and distinct pieces of agricultural equipment in the Intermountain West was the hay derrick. There were no standardized derrick. They were either hand made by the farmer’s or a neighbor. Besides the derrick, a buckrake, net settlers and derrick cart were utilized.
The stacker required talent, to make sure each corner was kept square. Keeping the hay stack uniformed was a must. If not, if one side became overloaded, the whole stack would collapse. Then there was the final touch. The top of the stock was rounded off to resemble a loaf of bread. This was an utmost necessity. The rounded top repelled rain and snow.
How did the hay net release? Also, were men ever on top of the hay stack while building it, or was it all done from the ground? Did the horses pull the hay net up to the desired height?