Canadian. Mid 20th century. Softwood, laminated wood, steel, wire, metal. A well-made model of a working tripod-form stump puller by Walter Stansell. The steel screw shaft is supported with a traditional wooden tripod frame that supports a moveable arm designed to hitch to an oxen. The plywood base is in a natural textured surface. Stansells models were recreations of his childhood memories and this working model of a stump puller is a great example of his work. Good condition. 20.5" x 19" x 17". Walter Stansell (born 1884) was a Norfolk County artisan who drew on his memories of the past to create historically important wood carvings and an unrivalled collection of steam models. Born into a poor farming family, he discovered his affinity for making things as a child when he was forced to create his own toys. Over the years, he began to build what would become an astonishing collection of working models of machines he had seen in his life including a watermill, threshing machine, steam fire engine, and more. When asked if people came to see his work, Stansell once said, "Oh God, yes. I've had people here from all over the world. 8 different countries, 11 different states and every province in Canada from the Peace River down. Not invited, you understand. They all came of their own accord." Stansell is credited with preserving the age of steam by building his working models. His work has been featured at the Ontario Science Centre, and in museums across North America.