Interesting #ThursdayThrowback story on this 1953 John Deere 40U with Orchard fenders selling next weekend.
This tractor was used to farm lemon orchards in the Goleta Valley of California. The custom-made fenders kept the lemon tree limbs from catching and being pulled under the tires. It was used from 1953-1960. Then subdivisions took form and eliminated most of the lemon orchards.
Chuck Beggs, the past owner, went to work for the Santa Barbara Orchid Co. in Goleta and took his tractor with him.
The president of John Deere at that time was William Hewitt. They had a summer home in nearby Montecito. William's wife liked orchids.
While visiting this nursery one day, William spotted the John Deere tractor, as his wife was admiring the orchids inside. Chuck was working in the field with the tractor. William couldn't help himself and had to drive that tractor and so he did.
This tractor was driven by the president of the John Deere Company.
In about 1985, the tractor ceased operations and was stored in a hedge row. The tractor was rescued in 2006 and restored. Now you have the opportunity to own it!
Selling on Saturday in the 2-Day Fall Harvest Auction, October 21-22 in Nokomis, IL. See website for complete details: www.aumannauctions.com
