DAVENPORT, Iowa — Thousands of people are heading to the Quad Cities River Center for the biennial Gathering of the Green. John Deere enthusiasts meet to admire antique tractors on display, purchase antique parts for John Deere equipment, and listen to speakers.
For 81-year old, Richard Bockwoldt collecting tractor equipment is about remembering and admiring the past. He restored his 1959 730 Diesel John Deere Tractor 15-years ago.
"Everybody has to have a hobby of some kind," Bockwoldt said. When he bought his first tractor, Bockwoldt's wife said that was all he needed. Today, Bockwoldt has 125 tractors.
The Gathering of the Green is held once every two years in Davenport. Over 2,500 people are expected to attend the convention-style conference. The event's duration is March 16-19th at the River Center 136 E 3rd Street in downtown Davenport.
More than 60 technical and historical workshops will be presented over three days. Many vendors offering repair services, new and used parts and restoration manuals will be set-up at the event.
Single Day registration is available at the door for $10. To sign up for the entire event click here to be directed towards the Gathering of the Green website's registration page. A full itinerary of events can be found at gatheringofthegreen.com.