Tractors or tow trucks – what are these vehicles?

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These photographs show Garage J. Dhénain in Forges-les-Eaux, France, in all its 1930s glory, oozing the atmosphere of everyday life centred around family farms and simple village traditions. They were shared by the grandson of the garage owner at the time, who is keen to learn more about them.

What intrigued us were the two vehicles parked in front of the garage, both fitted with attachments that appear to be intended for agricultural use. Then again, Garage Dhénain also specialised in Moteurs Industriels & Agricoles — industrial and agricultural engines — as can be read on the façade. These two machines certainly look like tractors fitted with Dunlop ‘Ballon’ tyres, but are they? With the garage’s name prominently displayed on them, they may well have doubled as tow trucks or recovery vehicles. And who knows what they were based on?

The example parked on the pavement, shown on its own in the second photograph, reveals much of its engine and transmission. That surely ought to make it identifiable to our experts. It even has a name: La Brayonne. Interestingly, there is a B&B nearby that still bears that very name today, which suggests the connection may be more than mere coincidence.

Words by Jeroen Booij
Pictures by Guy Dhénain

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