Charles City, Iowa -
World's First Tractor

Well, maybe just the world's first gas-powered tractor. And maybe not even the world's first -- nobody's really sure. It's a 1913 Hart-Parr, and it does have a catchy nickname: "Old Reliable."

Address:: 500 Gilbert St., Charles City, IA
Directions:: Floyd County Museum. Just south of the river, on the south side of US Hwy 18/Gilbert St. two blocks east of Hwy 14/Main St.
Hours:: M-F 9 am - 4:30 pm; in summer also Sa-Su 1-4 pm. (Call to verify)
Phone:: 641-228-1099

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World's First Tractor

I recently visited Charles City, Iowa, dubbed "America's Hometown," One of its claims to fame is the world's first tractor was made here. In fact you can see the old Hart Parr tractor, encased in glass, off the highway. Your "self-guided tour" takes approximately 45 seconds, and then you can take a complimentary post card. [Nicodad1, 01/16/1997]

[RA: Unfortunately, in 1999 "Old Reliable" was moved out of its glass box on the court house lawn and into the local museum. Probably better for the tractor, but nowhere near as much fun.]

Nearby Offbeat Places

Little Brown Church in the Vale, Nashua, IA - 11 mi.
Albino Deer, St. Ansgar, IA - 25 mi.
The Music Man Square, Mason City, IA - 27 mi.
In the region: Bily Clocks Museum, Spillville, IA - 38 mi.

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February 9, 2012