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Beginnings
January 2006 is the start of a new year and I celebrated my 30th birthday this month.  Turning 30 made me think back to the start of my interest in tractors. Where did it start?  I thought this would be an interesting topic for our authors to share this month.  
How did you get started in farm toys?

My own story with toy tractor started in the 1970's.  My parents sparked my interest in tractors by teaching me colors.  Growing up in Western, NY there were plenty of tractors to see.  In the late seventies farms were often brand specific and were very loyal.  There were all sorts of colors to see from orange Allis-Chalmers, white Cases, blue Fords, red Internationals, green John Deeres and silver Whites.  I learned my colors quickly  and developed a life long interest in tractors.

I am glad to say I still have my first toy tractors.  The early models were 1/16.  I will save my first 1/64 models for another time.  My very first toy tractor was an International 886.  This toy tractor has had many hours on the carpet and in the dirt.  It held up well and is the center piece of my collection today.  My second model was a John Deere 8630.  Back in the seventies this was a big 4wd and the 8 tires.  I used to ride around the house on this model and  farmed the "great plains" of the back yard.  The 8630 is also a favorite piece and shows just a little wear for its nearly 30 years.  My third tractor was a Case 2590.  The farm across the street form our house used a 2470 to plow.  I wanted a big Case more than ever when I got to ride in the Case.  My parents surprised me with the 2590 and it has been a long time favorite.  Again the 2590 held up well from all the hard work I put it through. 

I am glad that my interest in these early toys has grown into a life long interest.  I have made many good friends along the way.  If you can not remember your first toys  or you have not seen them in awhile check the basement and attic.  These early models may not be the nicest looking but they can be the center of a collection.  I would not trade my IH 886, John Deere 8630 or Case 2590 for any new model.

January is the start of a new year in toys and farm toy news.  Stefanie and I are looking forward to attending the first big show of the year in St. Louis February 3, 4 and 5.  We hope to see you at the show.  If you are looking at keeping track of shows in 2006 make sure to visit the new calendar of events page on Toy Tractor Show.com at www.toytractorshow.com/calendar.  You can now sort shows by month and list shows in your area.

2006 also marks 20th Toy Tractor Times model tractor since 1986.  As we prepare to ship the Spirit of '76 Case we are working hard to announce an extra selection for the 2006 tractor.  Hopefully I can provide a hint soon and we want to introduce a prototype and order form in the early spring.  Stay tuned.

Until Next Times.....

Jason & Stefanie Hasert