It took over for the mule.

Great invention, the tractor. It would transform our area, and the world.

Now some of those earliest, original machines are being preserved by local citizens who proudly put them on display at the PurpleHull Pea Festival.

Come and see the festival’s Antique Tractor and Engine Show. Look and admire these works of art – these iron horses of the field.

The Antique Tractor and Engine Show joined the PurpleHull Pea Festival several years ago. It has grown from a few participants to over 20.

In 2009, for the first time, the tractors joined the tillers on the track for some playtime.

Tractors competed in a very different kind of race from that of the tillers.

The Slow Race tests the ability of the engine and operator to keep the tractor running, but as slowly as possible. In 2009, “Doc” Ward took first place on his 1954 John Deere Model 40.

In the Barrel Push competition, drivers must maneuver a barrel down the track using the tractor to keep it in line. Sounds easy. Several drivers thought so, too. But reality is sometimes brutal. Zachary Ritzell smoked the competition on his 1948 John Deere Model B.

At the 2009 competition, The Oldest Tractor award went to Bill Lee for his 1936 Farmall Model F12.

The Fartherest Distance award was won by Ken West from Sheridan, Arkansas.

Daymon Davis was awarded for having the most tractors present.

Finally, the Peoples Choice award went to Lamar Smith for his 1959 John Deere Model 430.

Interested in attending? Interested in bringing your tractor? Contact Joe Ward at (870) 949-0762 or email him at [email protected].

Come see our farming champions at work!