Greetings from Dyersville!

It’s been quite the November here in Dyersville. The National Farm Toy Show is over, and we already have snow on the ground. I feel sorry for the farmers who are still trying to get out the soybeans and corn. Mother nature doesn’t want to cooperate this year. The neighbor that rents our ground has a nice Case IH 2166 combine. I caught him just as he was starting on the field in front of the house. The corn doesn’t want to dry down this year. I can see why everyone is waiting as long as they can. Plus, we have a temporary shortage of LP gas. It’s tough being a farmer right now. We need to pray for good weather and higher prices.

A few months ago I was able to go to Charles City, IA and drove by the Floyd County Museum which holds much of the information left from Oliver. They had several models on display outside including an old Hart Parr 16-30 and many others. I want to get back there and spend more time learning about the history of Oliver and Hart Parr.

At the end of October we also celebrated the 2nd birthday of my grandaughter Lucy. I wish I still had her energy. She isn’t scared of trying anything. She is truly a gift.

In my last blog I told you that we would soon be introducing our special Ertl 75th Anniversary models.

So, here they are:

The first trators Fred Ertl Sr. replicated was an Allis Chalmers “WC” tractor. We’re going to replicate this first tractor in 1:16 scale and include a “man” figure on the seat. (Stock # 16401OTP) This tractor will feature an all die cast body and wheels in a special box. We will also be doing a limited run of what we’re calling a “weathered” gold chrome finish that will be available through our outlet store.

The second tractor Ertl produced was a replicas of a John Deere “A” tractor. We are also tooling a new 1:32 scale John Deere “A” with man figure. (Stock # 45727OTP) It will also be in a unique box and will have a limited run of weathered gold chrome units similar to the 1:16 model.

We will also be offered a limited edition boxed set of 1:64 tractors that will include tractors from every decade from the 1940’s to 2020. (Stock # 45729OTP)

I’ll talk about additional releases in my next blog. The fun is just beginning!!

Last, but definitely not least, we were able to show early samples of our new John Deere 8RX tractors and our 1:16 S780 combine at the National Farm Toy show. For the 8RX we are offering a Prestige model in 1:16, 1:32 and 1:64 scale. As we get closer to production we’ll provide better photos and details of these models.

2020 will be a great year to be a farm toy collector. I can’t wait!!

We are finishing off the month with a sale on the Ertl Collectors Club. All items are discounted through the end of November.

Until next time,

Bill