It’s safe to say I was a bit inspired by Josephine for this one …
I had a lot of fun reading the Tales from Wales in this issue. I’m fond of interesting architecture, and well-constructed dry stone walls certainly fit that category. Naturally, this article about stonework made me want to see one of these walls in person.
Have you ever heard of the Kansas Native Stone Byway? I hadn’t until just recently. The fact that I didn’t know is a little sad, because the byway starts one town over from where I was born.
More to the point, I followed the byway through the rolling plains of Kansas and saw some of the stone walls built there. They were certainly impressive, and it was cool to see such similar designs in the countrysides of both Wales and Kansas.
As for the other articles this issue, we’ve got a pretty broad selection for you. In “Vintage Newsprint Advertisements,” you can read about an impressive collection of newsprint ads featuring John Deere products, which provides an interesting look at the history of equipment and John Deere as a company.
Old friend of the magazine Richard Stout brought the story “The Mayrath Challenge.” His long-term hunt for and restoration of the old Mayrath tractors certainly seemed like an ordeal, but no one can deny the quality of the results.
A new writer for Farm Collector (Murray Stokes) is featured in this issue in “Pull-Powered Hay Presses.” His expertise on balers and hay presses is a welcome addition to our pages.
Rounding out this issue, Barry Tuller tells the story of the old Root & VanDervoort factory in East Moline, Illinois. This old factory got a new chance at life serving as an event venue, and the conversion is an impressive sight. Read the full story in “A Factory Reborn.”
There’s a lot to be excited for in this issue. Take your time and find your favorite. Meanwhile, I’m going to get back to looking at stone walls.
Until next time!
