ALTAMONT — Everett Rau, who lived and died on the farm his family had tended for more than two centuries, did more than make do with what he had. He transcended it.

Over 200 years ago, the invention of a horse-drawn rake saved farmers labor in baling hay — the fuel of transportation. A replica of the flop rake will be on display at this year’s Altamont Fair.

At 96, beloved Altamont farmer Everett Rau teams up with local history buff Laura Shore to write his memoir.

The old machine has been tucked over in the back corner of a barn on the Altamont fairgrounds for years now, according to volunteer Andy Tinning.

The old machine has been tucked over in the back corner of a barn on the Altamont fairgrounds for years now, according to volunteer Andy Tinning.