Legendary Tractors, Legendary Cause: Supporting Farm Families Through Auction and Action

This summer, BigIron and Sullivan Auctioneers are joining forces for a one-of-a-kind event that blends iconic farm equipment, industry leadership, and heartfelt giving. At the heart of this initiative is a powerful mission: supporting Farm Rescue, a nonprofit organization that helps farm families through unexpected crises.

Classic Tractors With a Powerful Purpose

Three exceptional vintage tractors — each with low hours and collector-worthy features — have been generously donated to benefit Farm Rescue. In addition, two brand-new gravity wagons will also be auctioned, with proceeds supporting local FFA chapters.

These special items will sell during the Farm Progress Show Auction on August 27, 2025, in Decatur, Illinois, with 100% of proceeds from the tractor sales going to Farm Rescue.

Here’s what’s crossing the auction block:

1. 1976 John Deere 4230 2WD
   Donated by Dan Sullivan, this classic shows just 2,944 hours and features a Quad Range transmission, Sound-Gard cab, R134A A/C, new interior, and original paint and tires — making it a true standout for collectors.
2. 1988 John Deere 755 2WD Compact Utility Tractor
   Donated by Joe Swindell, this compact utility tractor has just 595 hours, offering both practicality and rarity.
3. 1986 Ford 1710 2WD Tractor
   Donated by John Sullivan, this model shows only 617 hours and remains in excellent condition.
4. Two E-Z Trail 50-bushel gravity wagons
   Brand new and donated by Joe Sullivan, these wagons will benefit local FFA chapters, supporting agricultural education and youth leadership development.

Other rare items up for bid in this auction include:

1. John Deere 8560 four-wheel-drive, in yellow
2. John Deere 4560 four-post MFWD tractor with front-wheel assist configuration and rear dual tires
3. 1978 Plymouth Trailduster
4. 1976 Ford F100 Ranger four-wheel-drive pickup
5. 1953 Farmall Super M in pristine condition

Why Farm Rescue?

Farm Rescue was founded in 2005 with a simple but vital mission: to help farm and ranch families who experience unexpected hardships — whether due to illness, injury, or natural disaster. The organization provides essential services such as planting, harvesting, haying, and livestock feeding at no cost to the families in need.

Volunteers and donors make this work possible, helping ensure that a temporary crisis doesn’t lead to long-term loss of a family’s livelihood.

To date, Farm Rescue has helped more than 1,100 families across the Midwest and Great Plains — including Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, the Dakotas, and beyond.

“This auction is about more than just rare tractors — it’s about standing with farm families when they need it most. We’re proud to support Farm Rescue’s mission and be part of something that truly makes a difference.”
— Cody Holst, General Manager, Sullivan Auctioneers

A Celebration of Ag Community & Generosity

The Farm Progress Show Auction isn’t just about buying equipment — it’s about honoring the agricultural way of life and giving back to those who keep it going.

Attendees at the Farm Progress Show in Decatur will also have the opportunity to hear from respected industry leaders who are passionate about supporting rural America, including:

Expect heartfelt stories, expert insights, and a strong reminder of the deep roots that connect agriculture professionals across generations.

Don’t Miss This Remarkable Event

🗓 Farm Progress Show Auction
📍 Decatur, Illinois
📆 August 27, 2025

Whether you're a collector, a farmer, or someone who believes in helping others, this is your chance to own a piece of ag history — and make a real impact at the same time.

Want to see what else is coming up?

Visit our upcoming auctions to explore more farm equipment, trucks, land, and collector items available across the country. There’s something for everyone — and you can bid with confidence, backed by BigIron’s trusted online platform.