When a 110-year-old Central Maryland farm and agriculture equipment dealer closes its doors next month, one agriculture specialist said owners of used farm equipment will have a harder time finding assistance.
"I have a colleague who used antique tractors and older equipment for farming," Colby Ferguson told the Frederick News Post. "This place was his No. 1 source for parts, and that's one of the biggest impacts closing the business will have."
Having first opened its doors in 1900, Knott & Geisbert Inc. Mowers & Farm Equipment now is in the final days of operation by third-generation owner Roger Hood Geisbert III. "Hoodie", as he is affectionately known, said his motives for closing the store are personal and professional.
"I guess I'm getting older. I'm 75 and my wife passed away, who was a main part of the business," he told the Frederick News Post. He said the dynamics of regional agriculture are changing due to urban sprawl. "So it's time to go."
Originally opened as Knott & Geisbert Inc. with carriage construction specialities, the store opened by Frank A. Knott began selling John Deere equipment in 1946.
With $1 million worth of inventory remaining, a liquidation auction is scheduled for March 4 and 5. The store's 3.5-acre site also is on the market for $3.25 million.
110-year-old Maryland dealer of equipment including Deere machinery to close
A Central Maryland ag store that sells Deere machinery will close its doors in early March.