The Vision
To preserve the voices and heritage of American farming so its legacy and values endure for future generations.
Michael Hinton ★ Renowned Kansan ★ Founder, Antique Tractor Preservation Day
“Tractors are more than just imperative farm machinery used for agriculture production. They’re part of our core heritage. A cherished family keepsake, handed down from one generation to another, engrained with acres of stories. They create friendships that span fields near and far, and memories that last one’s lifetime.”
FIND US AT: TalkingTractors.com | AntiqueTractorPreservationDay.com | TheAntiqueTractorShow.com
The National Agricultural Hall of Fame was chartered by Congress in 1960 to honor individuals who have made outstanding national or international contributions to the establishment, development, advancement, or improvement of American agriculture.
Introduced, Adopted, & Enrolled by the House of Representatives of the State of Kansas: Citing August 22nd, shall be known as ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY in celebration of the restoration and preservation of our Agricultural History. As Featured In: DAYS OF THE YEAR
Antique Tractor Preservation Day
Celebrating 250 Years of American Agriculture, Heritage, and Independence
Honoring America’s Agricultural Heritage Since 2010
By Michael Hinton | Hutchinson, Kansas
Antique Tractor Preservation Day is observed annually on August 22
For 250 years, America has been built by generations of men and women who worked the land, fed their communities, and passed their values from one generation to the next. As the nation commemorates its 250th Anniversary in 2026, Antique Tractor Preservation Day offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the machines—and the people—that helped shape America’s agricultural story.
In 2026, America celebrates one of the most significant milestones in its history—the 250th Anniversary of American Independence. This nationwide commemoration, led by the United States Semiquincentennial Commission, invites Americans to reflect on our nation’s heritage, achievements, and enduring traditions.
The story of America’s independence is deeply connected to the story of American agriculture. In 1776, approximately 95 percent of the population was engaged in farming. Many of the men and women who supported the cause of freedom were also those who cultivated the land, fed their communities, and helped build the foundation of a new nation. From the very beginning, agriculture has been woven into the fabric of America’s identity.
Over the past 250 years, both America and its agricultural industry have been shaped by the same enduring values—perseverance, innovation, self-reliance, and generational stewardship. These principles helped transform a young nation into a global leader and enabled farming families to overcome challenges, adapt to change, and pass their knowledge and traditions from one generation to the next.
As the United States expanded westward, American farmers played a vital role in shaping the landscape of the nation. Equipped first with horse-drawn implements and later with tractors and agricultural machinery, they broke the prairie sod and transformed the rugged Great Plains into productive farmland. Their efforts helped establish thriving rural communities and created an agricultural system that continues to feed America and much of the world.
The arrival of tractors marked one of the most significant technological advances in agricultural history. By the mid-20th century, tractors had largely replaced animal power on American farms, increasing productivity and helping usher in a new era of agricultural efficiency and growth.
For generations, tractors have stood as powerful symbols of innovation, productivity, and independence. These machines revolutionized agriculture, increased food production, improved efficiency, and helped fuel America’s economic growth and prosperity. Behind every tractor is a story of ingenuity, determination, hard work, and rural family values—qualities that helped build both American agriculture and the nation itself.
As tractors became fixtures on American farms, they also became woven into the fabric of family life and rural culture. Long after their years of fieldwork have ended, many antique tractors continue to hold a special place in the hearts of farming families and collectors. As Michael Hinton, founder of Antique Tractor Preservation Day, often reminds collectors and farming families:
“Tractors are more than just essential farm machinery used for agricultural production. They’re part of our core heritage. A cherished family keepsake, handed down from one generation to another and ingrained with acres of stories. They create friendships that span fields near and far, and memories that last one’s lifetime.”
— Michael Hinton
Founder, Antique Tractor Preservation Day
National Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductee (2025)
www.TalkingTractors.com
In many farm families, a tractor is more than a machine, it is a living connection between generations, carrying with it the memories, lessons, and traditions of those who came before.
Established to encourage the preservation and appreciation of antique tractors and agricultural machinery, Antique Tractor Preservation Day recognizes the vital role these machines played in America’s agricultural development and rural way of life. Since its founding in 2010, the observance has grown into a nationwide effort to preserve and celebrate America’s agricultural machinery heritage.
This is why Antique Tractor Preservation Day holds special significance during the America 250 celebration. Observed on August 22, 2026, the day provides an opportunity to recognize the important role antique tractors and agricultural machinery have played in shaping American agriculture, strengthening rural communities, and preserving the family-centered traditions that have long defined life in rural America.
On August 22, communities across America will have an opportunity to celebrate, preserve, and share the stories behind these iconic machines while honoring the farmers, families, and innovators who helped build the nation.
Preserving antique tractors and agricultural equipment ensures that future generations can better understand and appreciate the remarkable innovations that transformed farming and the dedicated people who operated these machines. These tractors are more than historical artifacts; they are tangible reminders of the resilience, creativity, determination, and strong family values that have sustained American agriculture for centuries and continue to be passed from one generation to the next.
The growing recognition of Antique Tractor Preservation Day reflects a broader appreciation for America’s agricultural heritage and the importance of preserving the machinery, stories, values, and traditions that contributed to our nation’s success. As we commemorate 250 years of American history in 2026, this observance serves as a meaningful reminder of the innovation, perseverance, rural family values, and agricultural stewardship that continue to define our country and inspire future generations.
Whether displayed in a museum, restored in a family workshop, or proudly driven in a hometown parade, antique tractors connect us to the people, places, and values that built rural America. As our nation celebrates 250 years of independence, preserving these machines helps ensure that the stories of American agriculture, the strength of rural communities, and the legacy of family farms endure for generations to come. In doing so, we honor not only the machinery that transformed our fields, but also the men, women, and families whose hard work helped shape the American story.
For 250 years, America has been powered by the hands that worked the land. Antique Tractor Preservation Day honors that legacy—one tractor, one family, and one story at a time.
Hinton Releases Second Single Saluting Farmers and Kansas Wheat Harvest
The release follows Hinton’s recent track, “Talking Tractors,” a tribute to vintage farm machinery. His latest song honors Kansas farmers and the annual wheat harvest. Written and composed by Hinton, the anthem celebrates the enduring spirit of America’s rural heritage and the deep-rooted pride of Kansas agriculture. Its lyrics honor America’s gold waving across the heartland and thundering combines rolling like freedom, strong and true.”
As Featured on these Sites:
“I wrote this anthem as a tribute to the people and spirit of Kansas. It reflects my deep roots in this state and honors the farmers who keep planting year after year—through difficult seasons, uncertain skies, and challenging times—with unwavering faith, resilience, and hope.”
— Michael Hinton
The single has already been picked up by KICR Indie Country Radio in Branson, Missouri — Recognized by Google as “The Number One Indie Country Radio Station in the World.” It is featured on the station’s Songwriters Showcase and DemoListen Derby pages: www.kicrindiecountryradio.com
Tribute Song to Old Iron and America’s Agricultural Heritage
As Showcased On:
An enduring tribute to America’s Old Iron, honoring generations of farmers and the tractors that built the USA. As the lyric goes, “There’s a ghost in the gears that won’t fade away… Long live the voice of Talking Tractors.” — Michael Hinton | Writer/Composer/Producer
As Featured In:
We Pay Tribute to a Legacy that Continues to Shape Generations and Upholds the Origins of Farming Innovation
“Mr. Hinton has taken on a very special, and personal mission to preserve as much of our agricultural heritage through the preservation of vintage tractors, coupled with recording and sharing the stories of these tractors, that include rural life histories for the benefit of current and future generations.” – Michael D. Nelson | MD NELSON ENTERPRISES LLC
As Featured In
As Featured In May/June 2026 Issue:
Events like The Great American Agriculture Celebration highlight the strength & enduring importance of our nation’s agricultural roots.
Through my work with TalkingTractors.com, I remain deeply committed to honoring and safeguarding the legacy of America’s farmers.
It’s a privilege to stand alongside those who dedicate themselves every day to carrying this proud tradition forward.
The Great American Agriculture Celebration Links:
Lorrie Boyer, the 2023 National Association of Farm Broadcasting Farm Broadcaster of the Year, chats with Michael Hinton, CEO of TalkingTractors.com and founder of Antique Tractor Preservation Day. Hinton talks about his passion for agriculture and heritage tractors, highlighting milestones like his recent invitation to the White House and his induction into the National Agriculture Hall of Fame. The conversation then shifts into high gear as Hinton’s longtime friend, Nashville recording artist and emerging NASCAR driver Gary West, shares his journey from drummer to frontman—and his drive to hit the track in honor of his father. Together, Hinton and West rev up their shared passions for tractors, music, and racing, delivering a high-octane tribute to rural America and the power of agriculture through their one-of-a-kind collaboration.
TalkingTractors.com accelerates into 2026 NASCAR Thunder Car Series with Country Music Recording Artist & Motorsports Owner/Driver, GARY WEST.
Friendship fuels awareness of Antique Tractor Preservation & America’s Agricultural Heritage through NASCAR Racing and Traditional Country Music
The Circle of Life: How Family, Friends, and Heritage Shaped the Story of Ol’ #60
HUTCHINSON, KS, March 04, 2026—There’s an unmistakable spirit about Iowa — seen in its people, their openhanded generosity, and an agricultural heritage that stretches back through generations. The character and values cultivated there reflect the very heart and soul of rural America.
Seventeen years ago, I purchased a 1942 Farmall H tractor from the Grandon family in rural Iowa. What started as a transaction fueled by passion soon became something much deeper. That first tractor ignited a lasting friendship — one I truly believe God thoughtfully set in motion.
Now, full circle, my wife, Tonya acquired a 1941 Farmall M tractor from that same Iowa farm family as a gift for my 60th birthday. What started years ago as a shared appreciation for old iron has grown into a bond rooted in trust, kindness, and heritage.
Along the way, the circle of Iowa friends has only widened. Matt, with the Great Eastern Iowa Tractorcade, graciously helped source transportation to bring the tractor home to Kansas. And new friends, Jessie and Josh of Merrill LLC, transported it with care, attention, and professionalism more than 500 miles to us.
“Is this Heaven? No, it’s Iowa.” Those words could have been written with these very friends in mind — and for Tonya, whose love and thoughtfulness have made this birthday a moment I will cherish forever.
Vintage Tractor Digest Honors Hinton’s Preservation Legacy and Hall of Fame Induction (Jan./Feb. 2026 Issue)
National Agricultural Center & Hall of Fame
Oct. 23, 2025 Induction Ceremony | Bonner Springs, KS
The Agricultural Hall of Fame was chartered by an Act of Congress in 1960 as a non-profit, charitable, educational institution. Its purpose is to honor individuals who have made outstanding national or international contributions to the establishment, development, advancement, or improvement of agriculture. Inductees have contributed to the success of American agriculture in a significant way, exemplifying the initiative and creativity that have made the United States the leading agricultural producer.
MICHAEL HINTON | NAHOF INDUCTEE—A legacy spanning more than a decade of preserving America’s antique tractor & agricultural heritage.
Giving Back to the Heart of Agriculture:
Michael Hinton shared heartfelt words during the ceremony about what the Hall of Fame represents to him: “My lifelong goal has always been to give something back to Agriculture—to our Nation, to my Hometown of Newton, KS, the Community of Hutchinson, KS, and to the People of this Great State, each of whom have given me so much in return.”
MICHAEL HINTON
2025 National Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductee.
Dedicated to Preserving the Legacy of American Agriculture through Vintage Tractors.
National Agricultural Hall of Fame to Induct Tractor Preservationist Michael Hinton
Together with with Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue, and Pork Industry Innovator Wendell Murphy
BONNER SPRINGS, Kans., Sept. 13, 2025 – Three people responsible for making major contributions to the past, present, and future of American agriculture – antique tractor preservationist Michael Hinton, former USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue, and pork industry innovator Wendell Murphy – will be inducted into the National Agricultural Hall of Fame on Oct. 23 at the National Agricultural Center in Bonner Springs, Kansas.
The Agricultural Hall of Fame was chartered by Congress in 1960 to honor individuals who have made outstanding national or international contributions to the establishment, development, advancement, or improvement of American agriculture. Hinton, Perdue, and Murphy, join a roster of notables, including Sen. Pat Roberts, Eli Whitney, George Washington Carver, and John Deere.
MICHAEL HINTON, Hutchinson, KS, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of American agriculture through vintage tractors, which serve as a memorial to our forefathers who worked the soil, provided for their families, and fed the world. Through visionary initiatives such as the launch of www.TalkingTractors.com in 2024, Hinton has created a vibrant platform where the stories of rural life and agricultural ingenuity come alive. He founded Antique Tractor Preservation Day with the objective to educate and create a tradition for recognizing our nation’s deeply rooted and proud agricultural heritage. His work to generate global awareness has resulted in being awarded multiple state Governor Proclamations in 2025, 2024, 2012, 2011 and 2010 for Antique Tractor Preservation Day, plus two United States Congressional Record Statements and four USPS Pictorial Postmarks. Antique Tractor Preservation Day has been featured in national television interviews, podcasts, and industry publications. Hinton’s leadership goes beyond preserving machines – it’s about storytelling, stewardship and strengthening the bond between generations. He works to honor those who labored in the fields, advanced American farming, and embodied the values of hard work, innovation, and community. Read More
Click for News Release, National Agricutltural Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Invite, & Michael Hinton Image.
Preserving & Celebrating a Monumental Legacy of American Agriculture…Tractors of the Past.
Founder, Michael Hinton’s devoted work in generating awareness for ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY has earned recognition through multiple state Governor Proclamations, two United States Congressional Record Statements, and four USPS Pictorial Postmarks, along with National television interviews, podcasts, and industry publications.
Commendations:
March 25, 2026 – U.S. Congressman Tracey Mann entered a statement into the Congressional Record (Proceedings and Debates of the 119th Congress, First Session) recognizing that, through Michael Hinton’s creation of ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY and the launch of TalkingTractors.com, a platform has been established that brings agricultural history to life and connects generations through a shared appreciation of hard work, innovation, and community, earning recognition throughout Kansas and across the Nation.
October 23, 2025 – Michael Hinton, founder, ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY, was inducted into the National Agricultural Hall of Fame; joining a roster of American dignitaries, including: Presidents George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, & Thomas Jefferson, Senators Robert Dole & Pat Roberts, and titans of agricultural innovation Eli Whitney & John Deere.
August 22, 2025 – At the request of the Honorable Jerry Moran, United States Senator, the official flag of the United States of America was flown over the U.S. Capitol, Washington, DC; in honor of ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY.
August 22, 2025 – At the certification of Scott Schwab, Kansas Secretary of State, the official flag of the State of Kansas was flown over the State Capitol, Topeka, KS; in honor of ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY.
August 22, 2025 – The United States Postal Service (USPS), an independent agency of the executive branch of the United States federal government, issues an historical “Pictorial Postmark” to commemorate ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY; available to Customers worldwide. Prior years issued Postmarks include: 2024, 2012, 2011.
August 22, 2025 – ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY events were held at the United States Postal Service (USPS), Hutchinson, KS Branch, and the Threshers Museum, Bird City, KS, in cooperation with the Great Plains Antique Tractor Club and the Tri-State Antique Engine & Threshers Association; showcasing an array of antique tractors.
August 19, 2025 – The City of Hutchinson, KS, the largest city in and the county seat of Reno County, KS, United States, issues a 2nd consecutive Proclamation; in honor of ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY.
July 25, 2025 – Governor Laura Kelly, the 48th Governor of the State of Kansas, issues a 2nd consecutive Proclamation; in honor of ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY. First Proclamation issue was July 29, 2024.
March 05, 2025 – Resolution No. 6011 was passed by the State of Kansas House of Representatives; in honor of ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY.
September 25, 2024 – Statement entered in the Congressional Record, Vol. 170, No. 150, by U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, U.S. Senate; commemorating ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY.
April 15, 2011 – Statement entered in the Congressional Record, Vol. 157, No. 56, Representative Jo Ann Emerson, U.S. House of Representatives; commemorating ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY.
2012, 2011, 2010 – Governor Jay Nixon, the 55th Governor of the State of Missouri, awarded consecutive Proclamations commemorating ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY.
“A Proud Symbol of Rural American Heritage and the enduring Spirit of Agriculture, sustaining Communities across our Nation.”
With sincere appreciation to the Honorable Jerry Moran, United States Senator, and Scott Schwab, Kansas Secretary of State, for their dedicated service and for jointly recognizing and commemorating Antique Tractor Preservation Day by arranging for the official flag of the United States of America to be flown over the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., and the official flag of the State of Kansas to be flown over the State Capitol in Topeka, KS on August 22, 2025.
2024-25 Talking Tractors Site Archives | 2025 Antique Tractor Preservation Day Photos | ATPD Epilogue Video
Steiner Tractor Parts Premieres “Stories Across America“ Video Honoring Antique Tractors & Our Nation’s Agricultural Legacy
The full-length episode highlights National Antique Tractor Preservation Day Held August 22, 2025 in Hutchinson, KS & Bird City, KS
HUTCHINSON, Kans., Sept. 19, 2025 – TalkingTractors.com, in collaboration with Steiner Tractor Parts—a trusted leader with 48 years of experience supplying new parts for old tractors—is proud to announce the release of a special episode of “Steiner Stories Across America.” This 14-minute documentary highlights the heritage of antique tractors, honors the people who preserve them, and celebrates National Antique Tractor Preservation Day.
Featuring engaging interviews with vintage tractor owners & members of the Great Plains Antique Tractor Club, Hutchinson, KS; this special presentation explores the history and cultural significance of Antique Tractor Preservation Day—founded by National Agricultural Hall of Fame inductee Michael Hinton. The film also emphasizes the vital role antique tractors play in preserving America’s agricultural heritage, while shining a light on the enduring rural values that continue to strengthen communities across the nation.
“Antique tractors are more than machines—they symbolize perseverance, family tradition, and the enduring spirit of American farming,” said Michael Hinton. “This documentary stands as a tribute to those who preserve that heritage and ensure it is carried forward for generations to come. We are deeply grateful to the many who have supported Antique Tractor Preservation Day.”
About Steiner Tractor Parts | SteinerTractor.com Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Lennon, MI, Steiner Tractor Parts has been providing new parts for old tractors for nearly five decades. With a passion for preserving farming heritage, the company serves customers worldwide with quality parts and a commitment to supporting the agricultural community.
About Michael Hinton, Founder of Antique Tractor Preservation Day For more than 15 years, Michael Hinton has been a leading voice in preserving America’s agricultural heritage, honoring vintage tractors and the stories they carry. His distinguished contributions have earned him induction into the National Agricultural Hall of Fame. Through his vision, Antique Tractor Preservation Day has evolved into a nationwide celebration of farming history. Hinton’s leadership not only protects the legacy of those who cultivated the land, but also inspires future generations to value tradition, embrace innovation, and uphold the enduring principles of American agriculture.
Click for Sept. 19, 2025 eNewsletter
ANTIQUE TRACTOR PRESERVATION DAY
Achieves Global Reach for Second Consecutive Year
HUTCHINSON, KS, November 05, 2025—The United States Postal Service (USPS), an independent agency of the executive branch of the United States federal government, has completed its tabulation of mail-in requests for the August 22, 2025, Antique Tractor Preservation Day Pictorial Postmark. The results confirm that the appreciation for antique tractor preservation continues to extend well beyond the borders of the United States, with 50+ requests received from across the nation and internationally, including submissions from France and China.
“Achieving this level of adoration for antique tractors—originating from the very center of America’s Heartland—demonstrates that our nation’s Rural Heritage Values and Antique Tractors are acknowledged and appreciated not only across the United States but throughout the world,” stated Michael Hinton, Founder of Antique Tractor Preservation Day. “It is profoundly gratifying to witness how an idea conceived in 2010 has evolved into a globally recognized observance. I remain sincerely grateful to all who have supported and contributed to the realization of this vision.”
