In the old days, before tractors, farmers used draft horses and mules to plow fields and cut hay. And as the equipment got bigger and heaver, they just added more horses and mules to pull the load. In wheat country across America, sometimes over thirty animals would do the pulling up and down rolling hills. No need for that anymore. But, we found three legendary teamsters who love history — and a challenge. So outside Chico, California, this trio gathered to try to recreate “The Big Hitch.” Luke Messenger, Nolan Darnell and Rick Edney, and a large support team spent two days getting the animals in place, lines, reins and harnesses set just so.

Luke learned a lot about these big hitches from the late George Cabral who once organized a 27 mule hitch — using antique farm equipment — to plow a field. Once underway, the team makes constant adjustments and sometimes moves the animals to different positions. It’s a lot of work and only a few people around the country have the knowledge and equipment to do this anymore, but it is a stunning visual flashback to the old days. Saving Americana on The Big Hitch.