David Shearer Ltd.'s first factory at Mannum.

Brothers David and John Shearer established a blacksmithing and implement making business in Mannum in 1877. The business produced stump jump ploughs, grubbing machines, fixed ploughs, scarifiers and harrows.

During both World Wars the company produced equipment for ther armed forces. In 1952 it became a public company and in 1972 David Shearer Limited became the Mannum division of Horwood Bagshaw Limited.

In 1894 David began construction of Australia's first car. He worked on the project for many years. Shearer's final design was a 'horseless carriage' powered by steam with local mallee firing the engine. It was first driven in 1897.

Bevan, G.A. & Vaughan, M.E. Mannum Yesterday, Adelaide: Lutheran Publishing House, 1978

SA Memory : the Shearer motor car

PS Marion.com : a history of the company