Illini FS fueling antique iron

PENFIELD, Ill. — A partnership that goes back over 20 years will keep the engines running at Historic Farm Days.

Growmark, in cooperation with Illini FS, the local provider, are the official fuel suppliers for the July 13-16 show presented by the I & I Antique Tractor and Gas Engine Club, as well as the Half Century of Progress later this summer.

“We really appreciate having the opportunity to work with those guys,” said Brian Neukomm, Illini FS energy management specialist.

“Most of the guys that are involved with that show, that organize it, put it on and manage it are customers of ours on their farms. So, it just makes perfect sense to return the support they give us back to them in the form of fuel. It’s been a great partnership for both of us.

“We love being a part of it. We have our safety signs all around the premises. We’re there not only promote our products, but we also promote safety, and we want people to come in and enjoy the show, but do it in a safe manner.

“The relationship we have with those guys who put it on is wonderful. It just doesn’t get any better than that.”

Neukomm noted the show’s large draw of visitors, it’s growth over the years and the educational opportunities it offers.

“Historic Farm Days used to be held north of town by the forest preserve and when the old school and the ground around it became available, they seized on that opportunity and it’s amazing the number of people it brings in from so many different states,” he said.

“It helps that they tie in featuring different makes and brands that they feature and there’s not many opportunities like that across the country. So, people who are true diehard iron fans are going to drive a couple of days if they have to with their tractor on a trailer to come to a show like that because you just don’t get those opportunities every day.”

Promoting Historic Farm Days is not limited to rural communities, but also to residents in urban areas.

“It’s twofold where you’re advocating agriculture and having fun at the same time. It’s fun, too, for the farmers who bring their antique iron and show it off,” Neukomm said.

“Advocating it to the cities and the communities to bring the people out, people that really don’t know the processes and the natural evolution of where their food comes from, it really is remarkable.”