Fastline often receives photo submissions for the front covers of our books that come with a story. Here’s one story of how an International Harvester tractor has helped a couple become a family.
This 1979 IH 1486 was manufactured in Rock Island, IL. It was purchased by Josh and Darci in December 1991. Josh and Darci had just met during the spring of 1991. Darci was from an IH farm in Carroll County, IL.
They knew then that farming and IH would be near and dear to them. Back in the winter of 91-92, Josh and Darci painted their “new” tractor.
Josh and Darci, circa 1991 with their IH 1486 tractor.
Josh and Darci with their two children and the “Courtship 1486″ in 2012.
Fastline is proud to have this family share their tractor story with us!
Their paint job was far from professional; however they were very proud of it. They were married that following spring, and put the 1486 to work chiseling and disking.
Eventually the tractor became their planter and mower tractor.
The tractor has been working their Prairieville, IL farm ground ever since.
Twenty years and two kids later, they decided to do a total restoration. Nate Shank, a talented neighbor and friend did the work – about a three month process. Today, their “courtship 1486” is reserved for tractor shows, the county fair, and parades.
Josh and Darci have been blessed with good kids, good soil, health and red tractors. Someday, Josh hopes their kids will pass this tractor down to their children.
Story and photos submitted to Fastline.
1979 IH 1486
Owned by Josh and Darci Francque, Dixon, IL
Restored by Nate Shank, Dixon, IL
