walking on the hay to compact it as much as possible. the ability to store a larger quantity of hay in the same space would allow for more animals to be fed longer.
hay presses were built prior to 1880, but they were seldom seen until after that time. the press would be driven from farm to farm. upon arrival they would be lowered to the ground by removing the wheels or digging a hole for the wheels. the hay would be placed in to the hopper from the hay wagon. the horse would then walk in a circle, turning a cam, which pushed a plunger into the chamber. this compressed 