Knowing that we would be driving through Waterloo, Iowa, Fred suggested that we stop for a tour through the John Deere factory. Checking in my AAA Tour Book, I found the JD factory did give tours at 8:00, 10:00 and 1:00; reservations required. I called from Minneapolis; the 1:00 tour was full; 'Well,' I said, 'might there be some cancellations?' 'Hmmm,' she said. 'Not likely. But stop by anyway.' We stopped, waited... Most of the tour group was there and ready to begin. Then, two visitors entered and reported that the other two members of their group would not be coming. So we took their place in the tour! 
Pictures could not be taken during the tour, so we were content with some outside pictures. All tractors assembled at the Waterloo plant are custom orders. Members of the elite 'gold key' program were allowed to watch their tractor being assembled. When assembly was completed, the 'gold key' members have the honor of being the first to start their tractor!
# posted by Martha @ 8:17 PM
