Frank Quinnette, Winterthur Horticulturist, writes:
When I was a kid in New Jersey one of the highlights of summer was the annual Salem County fair. I enjoyed everything about it but my favorite part was the farm equipment. Because of the huge number of operating farms in the area at the time there was no shortage of brand-new riding mowers, tractors, and combines on display and for sale.
I would stand in line with everyone else just to sit in the seat of any of them and pretend I was a farmer. To this day I still get a little giddy at equipment shows and when we have demo models of the newest work vehicles dropped off for us to try out. The cool part is now I actually get to take them for a spin if I want. Hey…I’m livin’ the dream!
What’s even cooler is that Winterthur is hosting the first (and I hope annual) Truck and Tractor Day here on the property on October 6th. Tractors and equipment from farmers and collectors throughout the area will be on display with expert operators near by to answer questions. Even our own pieces will be spruced up and out to look at close up. Can it get any better?
Here’s one of our mowers you’ll see at the event.
Toro Groundsmaster 4000 D
This is the Toro Groundsmaster 4000 D operated (for the very first time) by AmeriCorps volunteer team leader Crystal doing some field mowing for us this past Spring.. With 4 wheel drive, a 58 horse power engine, an 11 ft. cutting width, and a forward mowing speed of 9 mph it didn’t take long for her to learn to operate the machine like a pro. Hydrostatic drive, an air ride seat, arm rests and rollover protection made it a comfortable ride for her over the rough terrain and steep hills. A 15 mph 2 wheel drive road speed got her quickly back to the shop for lunch with her team when she was done.
Awesome or what?
Hey. If this piece of equipment doesn’t impress you don’t fret. There will be plenty of bigger, more powerful machines that’ll get your blood pumpin’ on display right here at Winterthur on October 6th. Still not impressed? Then come on out anyway, eat some BBQ, have some ice cream, and take a stroll through the Winterthur Garden. It’s always impressive.
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- Toro Groundsmaster 4000 D
Bring the whole family for a “wheel” fun day celebrating the history of farming at Winterthur and the completion of the new Brown Horticulture Learning Center. Come explore the historic and modern farm vehicles and fire trucks while enjoying a hayride, arts and crafts, and more! Members free. Included with admission. http://www.winterthur.org/?p=998