While there is always plenty to see and do at the Drayton Farm Show, one highlight of the event for many is a chance to check out or pick up the latest version of the customized show tractor.
Since the event began, show organizers, the Drayton Kinsmen Club, have been offering a different scale model toy tractor each year, to the delight of show-goers and collectors.
Every year the club orders and customizes 75 tractors and generally sells out. Most are ordered before the show begins. The tractors are popular with collectors and those looking for a souvenir from the show.
“This year’s tractor is a prestige collection, die-cast, 1/16 model of a four wheel drive (4WD), International 1066. The enhancements being made are hand painting of the engine, steps and tire rims. Yield signs and farm show stickers are additional features. The tractor is packaged in an official Drayton Farm Show box,” stated Drayton Farm show chair Kevin Van Loo.
International Harvester produced 54,947 full size International 1066 tractors between 1971 and 1976. In 1973, the company altered the engine to increase its horsepower. The International 1066 tractor featured an International Harvester 6.8L six-cylinder diesel engine, 42-gallon fuel capacity, 126 PTO horsepower and an open operator station cab. The original price of the tractor in 1976 was $21,000 U.S.
Said Van Loo, “There are limited quantities of the 2015 Drayton Farm Show collectible tractor. Anyone interested in ordering a tractor, order forms are available on the website, www.draytonkinsmen.ca. Pick up of the collectible tractor is at the Drayton Kinsmen Booth 85 at the show.”
