Community of Collectors Makes Old Iron Special

Reader Contribution by Leslie Mcmanus
Published on July 30, 2013

What do you like about antique farm equipment? For some of you, it’s the history. Others are drawn in by the nostalgia factor. For me, it’s the community of collectors. I am continually amazed by the way total strangers become fast friends when linked by bonds of old iron. A spirit of friendly cooperation and a “can do” resourcefulness makes anything seem possible.

Sooner or later, just about every collector runs into a wall. Whether the engine won’t run right or you need parts information, whether you’re looking for details on production runs or correct colors, the folks in this hobby can’t wait to get you back on track. Doesn’t matter who you are, what you do or how many tractors you have: Ask around and you’ll find somebody who is happy to help.

Here at Farm Collector, we see it all the time. Earlier this year, for instance, Erwin Fullerton sent a photo of a cast iron seat he couldn’t identify. After we published it in our Letters section, he heard from 10 readers who took the time to reach out to another collector and share a wealth of information with him.

With the possible exception of ice cream, the people of the old iron community like nothing better than lending a hand. If they can’t answer your question, they’ll do their best to find someone who can. In the outside world, there are jealousies and tightly guarded secrets. In the old iron hobby, for the most part, we live in an enchanted land where people go out of their way to be helpful.

That community is all around you. Tap into it at shows. Find it in the pages of this magazine. Computer savvy? Join our online community at FarmCollector.com. You’ll discover a wealth of information as well as “My Community,” where you can post a comment or question and “chat” with people all over the country. Connections like those are what make this community strong! FC

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