1964 John Deere model 110 Lawn Tractor

Chaska Herald advertising representative Jeff Engstrom is a man of many, many hidden talents. Among them is his acute mechanical skills.

Case in point – Jeff’s 1964 John Deere model 110 Lawn Tractor (Serial No. 9998).

This tractor is an Engstrom heirloom, originally belonging to his father. Jeff has tenderly maintained the classic machine over the years.

It’s still in use (Jeff’s yard is very tidy). He hasn’t moved it to the “vintage lawnmower” parade circuit quite yet. So this machine has been cutting grass since the Lyndon Johnson administration.

Built in Horicon, Wis., it harkens to the early ears of riding lawnmowers. In fact, John Deere began manufacturing them only one year earlier.

The 110 still has that classic snub nose and (my favorite detail) a metal tractor seat. It looks like a miniature tractor, as opposed to today’s machines, which resemble four-wheelers.

However, 40 years ago, at the onset of the last great population shift from the farm to the city, lawn care preserved the trappings of rural living. No doubt, John Deere officials witnessed this migration, and evolved with the times.

This tractor is unique because it captures a transition in American culture -- from the farm to the cul de sac.

Are there other area residents with a unique lawnmower or machine? Send me your pictures at editor@chaskaherald.com [1], and I’ll post them online.