In an extraordinary blend of passion and craftsmanship, Ryan Pigorsch, Operations Supervisor at Vollrath's Dane facility, embarked on a remarkable journey: restoring a 1956 Vollrath lawnmower. What began as a hobby has become a shining example of preserving history and celebrating the legacy of the Vollrath Company.

A Passionate Discovery

Ryan's fascination with vintage garden tractors—particularly John Deere models—has long fueled his hobby of collecting and restoring unique machinery. During a visit to Vollrath University in Sheboygan, he learned about an unexpected chapter in the company's history: Vollrath once ventured into manufacturing lawnmowers. That discovery ignited a spark.

Determined to bring a piece of this legacy to life, Ryan turned to a vintage tractor Facebook group, where he connected with a fellow collector who owned one of these rare mowers. After some convincing and a handshake deal, Ryan brought the weathered machine into his collection, eager to begin its transformation.

"This project was more than just a restoration—it was about bringing history back to life," Ryan explains.

A Restoration Challenge

The lawnmower arrived in rough condition, with decades of wear and neglect taking their toll. The engine was inoperable, the paint was faded, and rust crept into nearly every crevice. Driven by determination, Ryan tackled restoring the mower to its original condition.

The first hurdle was color-matching the mower's distinctive yellow-green hue. With help from Dane's HR Manager, Ally Balles, Ryan recreated the factory shade, ensuring the mower's appearance stayed true to its origins. Mechanically, the project presented even greater challenges. Replacement parts for the mower's Clinton engine were nearly impossible to find, forcing Ryan to fabricate custom components, including gaskets, to bring the engine back to life.

"The craftsmanship of the past deserves to be preserved," Ryan says. "Restoring this mower is my way of honoring that legacy."

Connecting to Vollrath's Spirit of Innovation

This restoration is more than a personal achievement; it's a tangible reminder of Vollrath's commitment to quality and ingenuity. From the advanced oil pump system in the engine to the sleek design inspired by the era's automotive trends, the mower embodies the company's innovative approach—even when exploring new markets.

"This project highlights how Vollrath has always been willing to take risks and explore new possibilities," Ryan reflects. "That same spirit of innovation still drives the company today."

Sharing History with the Community

The mower made its public debut at Vollrath's 150th Anniversary Open House in Dane, the summer of 2024, drawing admiration and sparking conversations about the company's diverse history. For Ryan, seeing the mower resonate with attendees was one of the most rewarding moments of the project.

"Sharing this piece of Vollrath's story and seeing others connect with it was incredible," Ryan shares. "It's a reminder of how the past can inspire us."

Preserving a Legacy

Now fully restored, the lawnmower has secured its place as a piece of living history. It will take center stage again at Garden Tractor Daze in Portage summer 2025, continuing to celebrate Vollrath's legacy and inspire future generations.

"This mower is more than just a machine—it's a testament to the lasting impact of craftsmanship and innovation," Ryan says. "It's a reminder that what we create today could become a cherished piece of history tomorrow."

Through his dedication and skill, Ryan has ensured this rare artifact remains a proud symbol of Vollrath's heritage, inspiring the company and its people to honor the past while creating better for the future.