John Deere has announced that its annual Heritage Tractor Parade and Show is scheduled to take place this year on Saturday, September 7. Owners of all brands, models and colors of tractors are welcome to join in the event. While participation is free, all equipment must be from 1970 or earlier.
“This is an event where enthusiasts showcase their collections while surrounded by fans,” said Brigitte Tapscott, manager of the John Deere Attractions. “Visitors to the John Deere Pavilion will see remarkable pieces in action and on display and they’ll have a chance to hear the personal stories behind them. An added bonus this year is introducing Neil Dahlstrom to our guests. His knowledge of our company history is certain to strike up great conversations and the items he’ll share, and display will make this an extremely unique opportunity.”
This year, a new event called “Meet the Archivist” will also be held from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. with Neil Dahlstrom, the manager of John Deere Archives and History. Neil is set to talk about John Deere’s arrival in Moline, Ill., and what the area was like at the time. He is also set to display several items from the company archives, dating back to the first 30 years of its existence.
The Heritage Tractor Parade is set to begin at 10 a.m. in front of the John Deere Pavilion on River Drive in Moline. It will proceed to 19th Street, then onto 5th Avenue and down 12th Street. All of the tractors will return to the Pavilion along River Drive where they will be on display until 5 p.m.
More information on the event can be found by contacting Kristen Veto at 309-765-1005 or by emailing her at VetoKristenA@JohnDeere.com.