Buchheit store manager in Jacksonville, IL Eric Michuson, had a great success for public relations when he managed a store in KY. His KY store hosted an antique tractor drive-in. It’s not hard to imagine he had corporate blessing. Kenny Buchheit,a second-generation owner of the company, is also the founding curator of the American Tractor Museum. The Buchheit family loves antique tractors.
Eric was looking to recreate the magic again at the Jacksonville store. He asked Doug Edwards of Edwards Tractor Restoration if he could help. Doug mentioned he might know a few people with tractors and that he’d make a few calls.
June 7th was the date set. 45 tractors surrounded the parking lot. A lot of sizes, ages, and brands were represented. There were tractors built in the 30s and ranged to more recent builds of the 70s. Jerry Rawlings had his one of a kind build on display. The year of manufacture has never been determined. Doug Edwards managed to steal a ride on the tractor. During his joy ride, he acquired an ac unknown acomplice to the shenanigans
Roger Johnson represented Aumann Vintage Power and Ron Cowman of Cowman Auctions were on-site with merchandise and information concerning their business.
Eric, with assistance from store employee Kamryn Rowland, were very accommodating hosts. Participants were gifted a goody bucket and lunch on the grill. Public involvement was promoted by voting for a people’s choice award Jim Edwards received the award for his John Deere 6030
Nine tractors that have been restored by Edwards Tractor Restoration were displayed. Dick Stiltz had a Ford 8N, Ron Cowman brought an Oliver 88 Desiel, Jason Edwards had a Farmall 300 missing a front wheel, two Shaw Du-alls were in the line, Nick Johnson completed the list with Olivers. Doug has worked his magic on a 77 Desiel, 770, 70, and Super 77.
Despite a quick mid afternoon scramble to load and beat the incoming rain, a great time was had by all involved.
Special mention to Darrel Hebert, although he didn’t display a tractor. It may have been a little logistically difficult since he traveled from Louisiana.
Antique Iron Media 