Event includes one-day-only exhibit of rare company archives

MOLINE, Illinois (August 16, 2019) — Once a year the John Deere Pavilion invites owners of heritage tractors to ride through the streets of Moline, display their machines outside the facility, and share unique collecting and restoration stories with guests. This year’s Heritage Tractor Parade and Show is scheduled for Saturday, September 7, and owners of all brands, models and colors of tractors are welcome to join in the fun. Participation is free, but all equipment must be from 1970 or earlier.

New this year, the event will feature a special “Meet the Archivist” opportunity from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. with Neil Dahlstrom, manager of John Deere Archives and History. Neil will talk about John Deere’s arrival in Moline and what the area was like at the time. He will also bring several items from the company archives for a one-day-only exhibit at the Pavilion. The items he’ll display are from the company’s first 30 years and have not previously been out of the archives for public viewing.

“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.”

The Heritage Tractor Parade will begin at 10 a.m. in front of the John Deere Pavilion on River Drive and will proceed to 19th Street, then on to 5th Avenue, and down 12th Street. The tractors will return to the Pavilion along River Drive where they will be on display until 5 p.m. Heritage tractor owners interested in participating should contact Kristen Veto at 309-765-1005 or by email at VetoKristenA@JohnDeere.com. Registrations will be accepted through September 2.

About the John Deere Pavilion

Located along the shores of the Mississippi River near the company's original Moline plow factory, the John Deere Pavilion has attracted nearly four million guests from around the world since it opened in 1997. The 14,000-square-foot, glass- and steel-enclosed structure features a wide variety of fun and informative hands-on exhibits about Deere & Company's global businesses and products, its rich history and heritage, and how it's helping meet the challenges of a growing global population. The John Deere Pavilion is a free attraction and is open to the public year-round. For more information call 309-765-1000 or visit us online at www.VisitJohnDeere.com.