Bulldog Paradise, located northeast of Munich, is a haven for antique tractor enthusiasts.

In the heart of the district of Erding, east of Munich, lies the Eicher Museum, a testament to the rich history of the Eicher brand. Founded in 1948, the company has a fascinating story that begins with the Eichers' innovative war efforts and culminates in the production of robust and economical tractors.

During the war, the Eichers transformed tractors and cars to operate on wood gas, a resourceful solution in times of scarcity. This resourcefulness continued post-war, with the Eichers achieving a significant milestone by building an engine that was cooled with air instead of water. This air-cooled design would become a defining feature of Eicher tractors.

Egon Eicher, the inventor's son, played a pivotal role in the company's success. He studied mechanical engineering and business administration in Munich and worked for Siemens before founding his own company. The first Eicher diesel tractor, equipped with a 20 hp water-cooled Deutz engine, was produced in 1936.

The ED in the designation ED stands for 'Eicher Diesel' and not Erding on their license plates, as some might assume. The Eicher ED 16/I, a model known for its economy and robustness, requiring little maintenance for cooling water refills, went into production in 1948.

The company's growth was not limited to Germany. In 1953, a joint venture was established in India, marking the beginning of Eicher's global expansion. That same year, the production of Eicher tractors reached 20,000 units.

The tractors became increasingly powerful, with a three-cylinder, 60 hp model produced in 1957. In 1959/60, the "Predator" series was launched, including the models "Panther", "Tiger", "King Tiger", "Leopard", and "Mammoth". These powerful machines were a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and power.

However, the Eicher story is not without its challenges. The company faced insolvency in 1984 and again in 1992. Yet, the resilience of the Eicher brand shone through, and the company continues to thrive today.

For those interested in learning more about the Eicher story, a visit to the Eicher Museum in Forstern is a must. The museum, founded by Franz Eicher, is open on Saturdays from 12 to 6 pm and on Sundays from 10 am to 6 pm. Here, you can explore restored Eicher classics and gain a deeper understanding of the company's rich history.

In addition to the museum, a tractor workshop remains in Forstern, where the story of the company is told through the restoration of these powerful machines. A visit to the Eicher Museum and workshop offers a unique insight into the history of agricultural machinery and the innovative spirit of the Eichers.

The district of Erding, known for its airport, brewery, and thermal spa, is home to this fascinating museum. Whether you're a history buff, an agriculture enthusiast, or simply curious about the Eicher story, the Eicher Museum is a must-visit destination.

Bulldog Paradise, located northeast of Munich, is a haven for antique tractor enthusiasts.