16 Sep Tractor Displays a Fun Way to Learn About Farming History
Step back in time and experience the rich history of agriculture of East Tennessee and Southern Appalachia at any one of the fall festivals along the East Tennessee Crossing National Scenic Byway. Pumpkins, hay bales, cornstalks, and the jellies and jams made from locally grown produce remind us that farming is the backbone of this region.
One of the most popular displays at fall festivals are the displays of antique farm tractors. These beautifully restored and lovingly-maintained field machinery from bygone eras are a firsthand account of the evolution of farm machinery over the decades, especially for youngsters and old timers. Tractors are the the backbone of farming. “Bringing people together for antique tractor meet-ups always presents a teachable moment to help the general public gain a better
understanding of America’s farm heritage,” said Mark Myers, a Sevier County farmer and antique machinery collector who helps organize the annual swap meet at the National Guard Amory in Newport, TN.
“I always tell people that we’re in the business of preserving the past for the future,” said Myers. Many folks are surprised to learn that the old tractors on display are often still fully functioning performers of farm labor. “I’ve got about eighty-some odd tractors myself, and there’s only about three of them I wouldn’t put into the field and use right now. They don’t just sit there — they get put to work. I’d say 75 percent of the collectors I know will use them in the fields.”
Getting kids interested in antique farm machinery is a fun way to instill a better appreciation for the importance of agriculture to sustaining civilization itself.
There are plenty of opportunities along the Byway coming up. Festivals that annually feature a show include the Newport Harvest Street Festival, an Antique Tractor Pull in White Pine, and Antique Tractor Rides with the Smoky Mountain Flywheelers. For a holiday theme, downtown Tazewell hosts an annual holiday parade that honors farmers with a lighted tractor parade.
Farming is a way of life along the byway. Experience more.