It took me a little time to realize that I’m becoming recognized as a Shaw Du-all collector. After purchasing seven in the past few years, being recognized shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. Having the same name as the brand is frequently noticed.
Is it a vanity thing on my part? I’d have to shrug my shoulders. I do find it cool, but I just like the uncommon little machines. I’m a little introverted. I’d rather the focus was more tractor and less me. I invision myself as a lucky curator of agricultural history.
The “Barn Find” graced the cover of Lawn & Garden Tractor Magazine recently. That, I realize, garners public attention. I’m humbled by the honor, but Jerry Rawlings, Doug Edwards, and Steve Farmer deserve attention for that tractor, just as much.
The details of acquiring the Barn Find can be read in the article The Barn Find in this blog. Duane Stone wanted me to have the tractor since my last name was Shaw.
I purchased the N5 from Kevin Shaw. During our negotiations, Kevin stated, “Its only fitting a Shaw owns this Shaw.” I wasn’t going to disagree, but I was more intent to make a fair deal we were both happy with.
The “Shaw needs a Shaw” quote was used when I was negotiating for the N8W. That seller was holding out for more revenue. Tim Cash came to the discovery that I wasn’t willing to part with more of his last name to acquire a tractor. Obviously, we came to terms.
Now, my tale leads to recent weeks. I haven’t been looking to add any more to the collection.Just like anyone else with the tractor passion, I’ll investigate a deal.
Don Nowak left a message on my voice-mail. Not sure why a John Deere guy would have been browsing Ebay for a Du-all. Maybe because it’s green? Don was the one to alert me though.
The auction was about to close. I knew it hadn’t sold, though. “Reserve not met” was clearly in print.
Sure enough, the tractor came back on Ebay as a best offer or buy it now option.
It was a A frame R6 that had been repowered to 16 hp. It also didn’t have the original rear wheels. The tractor was a package deal with Shaw and aftermarket implements and accessories. I’d take the tractor, but there were parts I definitely wanted.
**** Correction! R6 tractors were available with 16″ rear wheels, rather than 24″ *****
Initially, I contacted the seller to negotiate the breakdown of the package. That wasn’t an option he wished to consider.
The conversations and consulting started with Steve Farmer. The seller wasn’t way out of line on his ask, but hey, let’s see if I can get it cheaper. My initial offer was countered. My next offer was declined. After a week, I made a third offer and waited.
Saturday afternoon, my phone rang. It wasn’t a number I recognized, but I had a feeling I should answer it. Here’s a transcript….
“Hi! Is this Rick Shaw?” Which I affirmed. “Do you own or know anything about Shaw Du-all?” Agian, I affirmed I owned Shaws, but I admitted I didn’t know EVERYTHING about Shaw, just enough to get myself in trouble.
He told me he had one for sale, on Ebay, and had an offer for it. He wanted my opinion. Here’s where the transparency comes in. I was honest, I told him I couldn’t advise him. I had made the offer!
Since I was being honest, the gentleman came clean in return. He had hoped I was, admitting he was fishing for the buyer off Ebay. We won’t discuss further the rest of the deal due to Ebay restrictions.
Honestly, the infamy scares me a little. I realize the public would notice me. My writing has been published in Lawn & Garden Tractor Magazine and Hart Parr Oliver Collector. I have no idea how many follow this blog, but I’m humbled and honored anyone does
I knew that when I became a published novelist, I needed to be careful with my internet presence. I try my best to be fair and honest. That’s were my transparency comes into play.
Thanks for reading my ramblings..
Antique Iron Media 