There are few people in the state of Illinois who haven’t heard of the Rees Plow Match. This event is said to have been the start of the Farm Progress Shows of the modern era.

It all began back in 1915 when Milford Rees traded in his steam engine for a gas tractor. Milford was very well known in the area and each of the local dealers wanted to sell him a tractor. Before long, there were several tractors lined up in his field for the demonstration. Neighbors wanted to get involved too so they brought their tractors over to join in the unadvertised plowing match.

In 1923 Rees was again in the market for a tractor so every dealer in the area brought one out to demonstrate. Five different tractors showed up that year. In 1924 another plowing demonstration was held and more and more people showed up with tractors and plows.

By 1925 the plow match was growing and businesses were showing their support. Word was spreading and 4,000 people showed up to watch the plowing that year. This continued over the next decade and by 1935 there were up to 6,000 people coming out to see the big event. For many it was the biggest social event of the year. For the tractors companies, it was their best chance to put on a demonstration that would be seen by thousands and talked about for years.

Rees developed different classes for his growing plow match. There were classes for amateurs, professionals, boys, ladies and even manufacturers. Judging was done on a wide range of events. Manufacturers could also send a plowman of their choice to represent them.

Watch for the latest issues of Oliver Heritage to hit your mailbox or your local Tractor Supply Co. or Advance Auto Parts store!