Some of the oldest items in the Swenson collection include John Deere pocket ledgers from 1883 and 1884, Buffalo Pitts steam engine literature from the 1890s and a McCormick-Deering sign from the 1890s. Other unusual items include a cardboard globe showing Caterpillar tractors, from about 1929 or so, and a Minneapolis-Moline billfold, perhaps given as a premium.
It's an enjoyable hobby, say both collectors. “Dad and I are both people persons,” Jim says, “so the number one thing is going to a show and visiting with the public, and with other collectors who come to the show.”
The working relationship between father and son has its ups and downs, but the two are mature enough to step back and straighten things out. “Plus,” Lyle says with a laugh, “I've discovered over the years that I can't whip him anymore, so we have to get along.” FC