A History of Innovation

1958 - Moridge Manufacturing begins producing portable grain dryers

1965 - The iconic Grasshopper logo is designed by a local high school student. The logo has endured for more than 60 years and was developed in conjunction with the prototype machine.

1969 - Moridge Manufacturing introduces the ZeroTurn Grasshopper Mower to the U.S. market.

1973 - The industry's first swing-out, dual-lever steering is introduced on a zero-turn mower.

1983 - First liquid-cooled, 3-cylinder diesel powerplants for zero-radius mowers introduced, providing increased fuel economy.

1984 - Installation of Moridge's first robotic welder led to increased volume and a better work environment for employees.

1986 - Powder coat paint system introduced.

1994 - Introduction of Grasshopper's ergonomic Ultimate Operator Station for increased rider comfort.

1996 - Award-winning AERA-vator aeration system introduced.

2000 - Grasshopper is the first to offer both FrontMount and MidMount mowers with swing-out dual levers.

2004 - PowerFold lift is introduced, allowing the operator to rotate deck at the touch of a button and without any heavy lifting.

2005 - The industry's first PowerTilt Hopper allows the operator to easily emoty the collection container.

2007 - Grasshopper Company is awarded the World Trade Council of Wichita's Export Achievement Award in recognition of successful efforts to build international distribution channels.

2008 - Moridge Manufacturing celebrates 50 years of quality manufacturing services and is selected as a finalist in Wichita Business Journal's Best in Business competition.

2009 - Dedicated rear discharge decks are implemented for FrontMount and MidMount mowers.

2012 - Moridge receives Pollution Prevention award from Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Inaugural class is inducted into the Built to Last Club, recognizing users who build their business longevity around Grasshopper durability.

2013 - Moridge enters a partnership with the Military Warriors Support Foundation to donate a Grasshopper mower to a wounded combat veteran. The first donation was in conjunction with comedian Jeff Foxworthy and officially announced during a live appearance on Fox & Friends in New York City.

2015 - Moridge is recognized as a charter member of the National Farm Machinery Show for 50 years of exhibiting at the 50th anniversary of NFMS in Louisville, Kentucky.

2015-2016 - Grasshopper receives EDA Dealer's Choice Award two years in a row.

2017 - Grasshopper represents the state of Kansas at Made in America Product Showcase hosted by President Donald Trump at the White House.

2020 - Grasshopper receives President's "E" Award for Exports

2022 - A year of many. Grasshopper introduces its first OutStander Stand-On series of mowers. Grasshopper is awarded TOP TURF BRAND by Equipment Dealers Association. Also awarded Exporter of the Year by Export-Import Bank of the United States.

2023 - Moridge Manufacturing celebrates 65 years of innovation in engineering and manufacturing

2024 - Grasshopper celebrates 55 years of providing equipment that is FIRST TO FINISH...BUILT TO LAST.