Neil Dahlstrom - Lover of History
Exploring the Past to Power the Future: Neil Dahlstrom Talks History, John Deere, and "Tractor Wars"
This week on the Farm4Profit Podcast, we dive deep into agricultural history with none other than Neil Dahlstrom—a bestselling author, historian, and archivist for John Deere, one of the most iconic ag companies in the world. Neil isn’t just a keeper of the past—he brings it vividly to life. Whether you're a tractor enthusiast, history buff, or ag professional, this episode is packed with insights that connect farming’s legacy to its future.
Neil is the author of "Tractor Wars", a #1 bestseller and winner of the 2022 American Book Fest Award for Best History - General. He’s also penned "The John Deere Story" and "Lincoln’s Wrath", blending deep research with captivating storytelling. As the lead archivist at John Deere, Neil shares his journey through historical societies, museums, and even abandoned factories turned coffee shops—proving that history is never boring when it’s lived. He also teases an exciting new exhibit on the history of ag toys at the John Deere Pavilion, further cementing his role as a bridge between past and present.
With almost 2 million views on a PBS documentary, Neil’s impact reaches well beyond books. He's also a member of the Smithsonian's Kitchen Cabinet, contributing to the national conversation on food and ag history. From restoring archives to cruising in his 1971 VW Super Beetle, Neil reminds us that passion fuels preservation.
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