It is no surprise that Woodland has a museum for agriculture. Surrounded by fields and orchards, agriculture is ever present. But I did not expect to learn about the many different kinds of tractors.
The California AG Museum has over 100 tractors. All shapes and forms, from horse drawn, to steam, to fuel powered. The machines stem from a collection from Fred Heidrick Sr. and his brother Joe. Previously the Heidrick Ag History Center, it expanded in 2015 to the California Agriculture Museum.
The tractor’s history is fascinating. Beginning in the late nineteenth century tractors had metal wheels. It evolved with spikes then large rubber tires, and even tank-like tracks. One tractor built to tow artillery, the Hold “120” HP, was almost to France when World War I ended. Today, this is thought of as the only one of its kind. But with more than 100 antique tractors everyone can find 
their unique fascinating piece of farm equipment. Maybe it’s the white and red painted caterpillar? Clown-like made up for the county fair it stands out from its yellow family members in the rows ahead.
On our visit there was a huge party going on. The kids all got their own little tractors to zip around the museum. It definitely added to the fun! 
Admission to the California AG Museum is $10 for adults, students, seniors and veterans $8, kids 6-12 $5, kids under 6 free. It is located in 1958 Hays Lane, in Woodland, CA. Opening hours are Wednesday – Sunday 10 am to 4 pm.
Do you have a favorite piece of farm equipment?