The Kansas Art Trail showcases the rich history and culture of various Kansas towns through public art, including murals, sculptures, and other artworks. Wichita honors its Native American heritage with the 'Keeper of the Plains' sculpture by Blackbear Bosin. Crawford County features murals representing its native American population, while Pittsburg celebrates its university mascot with a bronze sculpture. Atchison pays tribute to Amelia Earhart with a bronze statue, and Salina offers a self-guided Mural trail and sculpture tour. Manhattan's Flint Hills Discovery Center tells the story of the tall grass prairie and the Buffalo Soldiers. Abilene's cowboy past is depicted through art, and the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library provides insights into the former President's life. These art installations not only beautify the towns but also educate visitors about Kansas's history and culture.

Friends of Green, part of the I & I Antique Tractor Club and Half Century of Progress, raised $3,000 for scholarships to support students at the Lake Land John Deere Tech School. The scholarships aim to promote careers in John Deere dealerships and interest in antique tractor collecting. The initiative addresses the technical skills gap in modern farming equipment. Students and instructors expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting the program's impact on their education and career prospects.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum is hosting a one-act play titled 'Lilacs and Letters,' written and performed by Zaxxon Nation, with direction by Ed MacMurdo and original music by Randy Erwin. The play, which runs for 15 minutes, is set among sleeping Civil War soldiers and reflects on the nation's grief and praises Abraham Lincoln. Walt Whitman, the subject of the play, was a volunteer nurse during the Civil War and is known for his poetry and compassion. The play is free with museum admission and includes a Q&A session.

Shipshewana and LaGrange County, Indiana, offer a rich array of holiday experiences, from staying at the Farmstead Inn to visiting the Menno-Hof Amish-Mennonite Interpretive Museum. Highlights include making Amish dolls at Kids Kreations, cookie decorating at Shawna Rae’s Cafe, and enjoying entertainment at the Blue Gate. Visitors can also engage in unique activities like basket making at Sonshine Baskets, pretzel workshops at Ben’s Pretzels, and painting classes with Kathryn Lambright. Dining in an Amish home with Caroline Yoder provides an authentic culinary experience. The trip, coordinated by Sara Broers and hosted by Visit Shipshewana, showcases the area's cultural and festive offerings.

The Slow Boys Antique Tractor and Engine Club held their 6th corn picking day in Pittwood, Illinois, attracting a small crowd for the event. Art Downs, a well-known figure in the antique tractor pulling community, organized the event on his 30-acre farm. Various antique tractors and pickers were showcased, including brands like John Deere, Allis Chalmers, Case, Oliver, Wood Brothers, International, and New Idea. The event also saw participation from local FFA kids and community members, highlighting the nostalgic and communal spirit of the gathering.

Farming for coal in Southeast Kansas reveals fascinating machinery and mining history. The Page 618 Walking Dragline, one of only two remaining, will be relocated to the Miners Hall Museum. Big Brutus, the world's largest surviving electric shovel, is a major attraction at the Big Brutus Museum, which offers various events and educational programs. The article highlights the historical significance of mining equipment and the contributions of individuals like William Wilkinson and William Perry. The region's rich history, including Route 66 and immigrant stories, makes it a compelling destination for visitors.

American Country singer Lee Brice released a new song titled 'Farmer' during the Farm Progress Show, in partnership with Case IH. The song celebrates the hard work and dedication of farmers, aligning with Case IH's Built by Farmers campaign. Case IH's vice president, Scott Harris, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the company's deep ties to farming. Brice, who has a personal connection to farming, performed the song live for the first time at the event.

The International Towing Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee, showcases a vast collection of tow trucks and related artifacts, celebrating the history and evolution of the towing industry. The museum, which began with the Friends of Towing, honors the invention of the tow truck by Ernest Holmes Sr. and features various historical models, including the Locomobile and the 1943 Diamond T 969A. The museum also includes a memorial for towing professionals who lost their lives in service and offers financial assistance to their families through the Survivor Fund. Key exhibits highlight the contributions of industry pioneers and the development of significant tools like the Dynamic Hydraulic Wheel-Lift System.

The Half Century of Progress, a premier vintage farm show in the U.S., celebrated its 10th anniversary in Rantoul, Illinois, showcasing heritage tractors and reflecting on the family aspect of farming. The event featured tributes, parades, and displays of vintage farm equipment, including a significant focus on the 100-year history of Farmall tractors and the 60th anniversary of the Allis Chalmers model D21 tractor. The show also highlighted the contributions of sponsors and volunteers, with notable mentions of organizations like the United States Veterans of America and publications such as Heritage Iron and Oliver Heritage. The event drew collectors and enthusiasts from across the U.S. and even internationally, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of vintage farming equipment.

The Illinois State Fair, running through August 20 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, features antique tractors, infrastructure investments, and new initiatives. Highlights include a renovated train station, electrical upgrades, and ADA accessibility improvements. The fair also introduces a Sensory Station for those with sensory overload issues and offers a new ice cream flavor, cookies and cream. The invasive fish formerly known as Asian Carp, now called Copi, will be available as a food option. Key figures such as Jerry Costello, Paige Van Dyke, Rebecca Clark, and Natalie Phelps Finnie were present at the media day event.

Shipshewana, Indiana, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Key attractions include the Blue Gate Theatre and Restaurant, Menno-Hof information center, and various local shops like Davis Mercantile and Cherry Pickers. Visitors can enjoy Amish cuisine at Yoder’s Homestyle Cooking and explore handcrafted items at Riverwood Pottery and You-Nique Boutique. Guided tours by locals like Orley Miller provide deeper insights into the Amish way of life. Nearby towns like Middlebury and Elkhart also offer unique shopping experiences and historic sites.

The 19th annual Burr Oak Sibley Tractor Drive took place in Fairbury, Illinois, led by Max Armstrong. The event, inspired by a previous drive for tornado victims, raised funds for the American Cancer Society. Russ Tjarks, who participated in memory of his sister Shirley Abel, drove his 1952 John Deere B. The drive included stops at significant local landmarks, including the Ziegenhorn Timber, where Steve Ziegenhorn shared his family's farming history. Various tractors, including John Deere, International Harvester, and Oliver models, were featured. The event concluded with a lunch, silent auction, and a tribute to deceased members.

The article is a travelogue about the author's visit to Branson, Missouri, highlighting the town's patriotic spirit, entertainment options, historical sites, and natural beauty. The author stayed at the Chateau on the Lake and visited various attractions including Dick’s 5 & 10, the Branson Centennial Museum, and the Celebrity Car Museum. They enjoyed performances at Dolly Stampede, Legends in Concert, and the Presley Jubilee, and experienced dining at Billy Gail’s and Clockers Café. The author also explored Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, Top of the Rock, and took a Pink Jeep Tour. The trip concluded with a visit to the Aquarium at the Boardwalk. The article emphasizes Branson's offerings of rides, shows, art, and food, and its ability to entertain all ages.

The article by Cindy Ladage tells the story of Henry and Mary Lou Coussens, who live on a farm that was once the birthplace of Warren McCray, a former governor of Indiana. Henry showcased a 93-year-old tractor at the Half Century of Progress event in Illinois. The article delves into McCray's history, his business acumen, and his political career, including his conviction for mail fraud and subsequent pardon. It also touches on McCray's opposition to the Ku Klux Klan and the speculation that his conviction might have been influenced by the Klan. The Coussens family's life on the farm and Henry's personal collection of historical items, such as an antique tractor and a Birdsell wagon, are also highlighted. The author clarifies that the opinions expressed are her own and not necessarily those of Farm World.

Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers a vibrant culinary scene with a variety of unique dining experiences. Highlights include Top of the Rock for its specialty pizzas and beers, Calliope Restaurant for its Levantine cuisine, and Rembrandt’s Coffee House for its artisan bread and pastries. Uncle Larry’s Restaurant is renowned for its fish dishes, while Niedlov’s Bakery And Café is famous for its bread. Main Street Meats offers a combination of butcher shop and restaurant with local farm-sourced ingredients. Naked River Brewing Company is known for its barbecue and historic building, and Lupi’s Pizza Pies offers freshly sourced pizza ingredients. Additional attractions include Gate 11 Distillery and Crabtree Farms, which focus on sustainability and community engagement.

Springfield, Illinois, offers a variety of locally owned dining spots with unique atmospheres and historical significance. Highlights include Chesapeake Seafood House, Springfield Carriage House, D’Arcy’s Pint, Charlie Parker’s Diner, Saputo’s, Westwood’s Lodge Pub And Grill, Finley’s Tap House, Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery, The Chili Parlor, and Cozy Dog Drive In. Each restaurant has its own specialties and charm, from seafood and Italian fare to traditional pub food and microbrews. The article emphasizes personal favorites and historical anecdotes, providing a subjective guide to the best dining experiences in Springfield.

The article highlights eight notable locations in Rockford, Illinois, that celebrate the history of the Rockford Peaches, a professional women's baseball team from the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Key stops include the Midway Village Museum with its 'Girls of Summer' exhibit, Beyer Stadium where the Peaches played, and the Coronado Performing Arts Center, a historic venue the team frequented. The piece also mentions various murals, parks, and dining spots that honor the Peaches' legacy, emphasizing the team's impact on women's sports and local culture.

The author recounts a delayed but memorable trip to Ireland to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary, highlighting 12 romantic and scenic locations. The journey included visits to Dublin, Kilkenny, and other picturesque sites, with the help of travel blogger Jody Halsted and guide John Hourigan. Key attractions included Merrion Square, Powerscourt Estate, the Rock of Cashel, and the Cliffs of Mohr. The trip was filled with historical insights, beautiful landscapes, and personal moments of romance, making Ireland an ideal destination for celebrating love.

Muscatine, Iowa, known as 'The Pearl of the Mississippi,' offers a variety of unique outdoor experiences. Key attractions include historical tours, such as 'A Stroll Through Muscatine,' and landmarks like the Mississippi Harvest Statue and the Running River Trail System. The town also features cultural sites like the Muscatine Art Center and the Pine Creek Grist Mill. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities from hiking and biking to exploring local history and art. The article highlights the town's rich history, scenic beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities.

San Luis Obispo, a city with a sustainable and sophisticated atmosphere, offers a variety of dining experiences. Seeds provides a casual, local, and fresh brunch, while Antigua Brewing is a family-owned brewery with a unique location. SLO Delicious Bake Shop offers good, affordable food, and Brasserie SLO serves cuisine reflecting the local bounty. Big Sky Cafe focuses on hyper-local sourcing, and Wolff Vineyards practices sustainable wine production. Tolosa Vineyards is known for its pinot noir and chardonnay in a family-friendly setting. The SLO Farmers' Market is a world-famous event that supports local entrepreneurs. Hotel San Luis Obispo High Bar offers a great view and local fare, Mint + Craft features locally-sourced food, and Bliss provides sugar-free snacks suitable for diabetics.

Arthur and nearby Arcola in Illinois host the state's largest Amish communities, offering unique dining and shopping experiences. Visitors can dine in Amish homes, such as those hosted by Elizabeth, or at local establishments like Yoder’s Kitchen. The area also features Beachy’s Bulk Foods for specialty Amish products and the Illinois Amish Heritage Center for cultural insights. The Amish community is known for its hospitality, craftsmanship, and delicious homemade food, making it a charming destination for travelers.

Perryville, Missouri, offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Key highlights include the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Rosary Walk, the Perry County Courthouse, the Missouri National Veterans Memorial, and the Old Appleton Bridge. Other notable sites are the Hadler Shoe Tree, Saxon Lutheran Memorial, Tower Rock, and the Quilt Barn Trail. The article emphasizes the town's rich history, scenic beauty, and accessible adventures, supported by local organizations like Visit Perry County Missouri and the Perry County Welcome Center.

Dwight, Illinois, is a historic town with attractions including the Keeley Institute, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed bank, a historic train depot, and a Route 66 gas station. Visitors can enjoy architectural sites like the Pioneer Gothic Church and the Oughton Estate's windmill. The town also features the Prairie Creek Library, housed in the former Oughton Carriage House. Local festivals and dining options like the Old Route 66 Family Diner and Cherry Red Roasters BBQ offer additional activities for travelers.

Hardy's Reindeer Ranch in Rantoul, Illinois, offers a magical experience with activities such as feeding reindeer, wagon rides, and a corn maze. The ranch, open year-round for special events, features a western-style banquet hall and a gift shop. Seasonal attractions include a corn maze and holiday-themed events. The ranch is praised for its family-friendly environment and unique offerings, making it a popular destination for groups and tourists.

The American Thresherman Association’s Fall Show in Pinckneyville, Illinois, showcased traditional crafts and farming education, featuring rope making by the Heartland Ropemakers Guild, sorghum processing, apple cider production, and various farm equipment displays. The event aimed to educate school children about farming history and techniques, with activities including corn shelling demonstrations and visits to the Illinois Rural Heritage Museum. The museum offered interactive exhibits on rural life from 1850 onwards, enhancing the educational experience for visitors.

Champaign/Urbana, home to the University of Illinois, offers a diverse mix of dining options influenced by its international student population and Midwestern roots. The article highlights seven favorite restaurants in Champaign, including Black Dog Smoke & Ale, known for its barbecue and historic setting; Prairie Farms Fruits & Creamery, praised for its cheese and gelato; and the Original Pancake House, appreciated for its breakfast offerings. Other notable mentions include Seven Saints Bar for appetizers, The Courier Café for its unique decor and food, Portillo’s Hot Dogs for its quality and less crowded atmosphere compared to Chicago, and Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant for its authentic Mexican cuisine. The article reflects a positive sentiment towards all the mentioned establishments and emphasizes the enjoyable dining experiences in Champaign.

The article is a personal account of the author's visit to the Daniel Boone Home & Heritage Center. It reflects on the life and legacy of Daniel Boone, a renowned American frontiersman. The author learned about Boone's early life in Pennsylvania, his experiences in North Carolina, his journey through the Cumberland Gap, and his time in Kentucky where he faced conflicts with Native Americans. Boone later moved to Upper Louisiana, now Defiance, Missouri, where he spent his final years. The author toured Boone's limestone home and the surrounding village, expressing admiration for the Grist Mill and Sappington Dressel House. The article also touches on Boone's family legacy, mentioning his numerous descendants. The author plans to write a three-part series for Farm World about the experience and anticipates visiting more sites related to Boone's history.