The Gathering of the Green

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While you are here, see some pictures of the 2018 Gathering.

Would Mr. John Deere have enjoyed the Gathering of the Green?

    We think he would and we think he would be truly amazed at the result of his creative work on a simple anvil in a one-forge shop over 175 years ago. What arose from that polished steel plow is a global company and the world’s largest manufacturer of agricultural equipment. The quality of his company has spawned a legion of admirers second to none. Yes, John Deere would be mightily impressed with the admiration and passion John Deere collectors and restorers have for his equipment. And yes, he would enjoy the Gathering…..workshops, vendors, trips/tours, speakers and displays.

WHY DO WE DO THIS?     During the course of one of the past Gatherings, this writer was asked an interesting question by one of our guests…"Just why do you folks (the four sponsoring clubs) do this (offer the “Gathering of the Green”)?" I must say that I had to give that some thought.     The four sponsoring clubs meet every other year at Grand Detour, John Deere’s home, for a tractor show, and during a group meeting there during the 1999 show, Mark Johnson, an NEITCC member, shared that he had recently attended a conference sponsored by another tractor company. Given the fact that no such conference had ever been sponsored for John Deere enthusiasts, it was his opinion that our four groups together could create such an event for our faithful green and yellow collectors. After some serious conversation, the group agreed to give it a try, and the rest is history.     I know that bit of history doesn’t answer the original question…”Why do we do this?” We do this because of…YOU…ALL OF YOU! We do this because you are so very appreciative of our efforts and you offer your kind understanding when everything doesn’t run perfectly. We do this because of your generous, positive comments. We do this because you are friendly and eager to share your love of John Deere products. No one “talks tractors” better than GOG attendees. We thrive on your kindness, friendliness, and eagerness to strike up a conversation. You never fail to share your enthusiasm for the activities we have offered during the event, and that is so deeply appreciated. The amazingly kind comments so many of you share when completing the opinion form at the closing banquet are so meaningful for us. We honestly don’t know whether to smile or cry. Thank you so very much!     So, that’s “why we do this.” Thank you so much for joining us at the “Gathering of the Green 2018," and for sharing your warmth and kindness so freely. It’s what keeps us going. If you weren’t able to join us, plan to do so in the future.