Welcome to the John Deere Pavilion in Moline, Illinois, a landmark deeply embedded in the history and evolution of agricultural innovation. Established due to the vision of John Deere, a blacksmith who revolutionized farming with his invention of the self-scouring steel plow in 1837, this site celebrates the profound impact Deere & Company has had on agriculture.
In 1848, John Deere relocated his operations to Moline, Illinois, strategically choosing this location for its access to the Mississippi River and the burgeoning railroad network. This move marked the beginning of a significant transformation for the city, establishing it as a hub for agricultural machinery manufacturing. Over the years, Deere & Company expanded its product line from plows to include a wide variety of farm machinery, influencing farming practices across the United States and beyond.
The John Deere Pavilion itself is not just a museum but a testament to over 180 years of agricultural innovation. Here, visitors can explore a vast collection of vintage tractors, combines, and other machinery that tell the story of technological advancements in farming. Notably, the Pavilion was designed by the renowned architect Eero Saarinen, further embedding it in the architectural history of the region.
Throughout its history, the Pavilion has been a site of significant events, including community gatherings and educational programs aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of agriculture’s role in society. The Pavilion attracts visitors from around the globe, eager to learn about the legacy of John Deere and the evolution of farming technology.
As you explore, imagine the impact of John Deere’s innovations on the American Midwest’s fertile prairies, forever altering the landscape and the lives of countless farmers. This site not only honors a pivotal figure in American history but also serves as a living museum, educating future generations about the vital importance of agriculture in our daily lives.
