The John Deere Year

The Miami Valley Threshers reunion meets in Plain City, mid-July, every year. A highlight is the parade. This year's featured manufacturer was John Deere, with entries ranging from lawn mowers to full-size tractors. Some pulled wagons loaded with friends and family. Once in awhile, a red Farmall chugged past. My Farmall sketch is a bit messy, because I accidentally (automatically) painted it green, then had to correct it.

Some vehicles displayed signs advertising services or upcoming events. I didn't see nearly as many antique, or even old, tractors as in previous years. The elderly farmers have been leaving us.

The steady pace made sketching a challenge. Each tractor was slightly different than the one before. I found the variation in air intake and exhaust pipes (on top) interesting. Overhead trees dispersed the early summer evening light, eliminating shadows.