Above are three tractors that were fully restored by our son, Cole White. When he joined 4-H, he had a dream of restoring tractors — just like his grandpa. At the early age of 11 and his first year in 4-H, he began with the 544 International Harvester Tractor (pictured on the right). This tractor needed a little bit of mechanical work and needed to be completely repainted. Taking what he learned from his first project, he began his second restoration of an 826 International Harvester Tractor (pictured on the left) and his favorite to drive. He was more confident and knowledgeable on what needed repair by the hands-on experience he had with his first project. After success with his first two projects, a 4-H judge suggested he challenge himself a little more for his next project. He did just that! He found a Farmall 504 tractor (pictured in the middle) that had been in a field for many years with weeds growing up around it. It did not run and needed a full body repair. He worked very hard at getting this tractor’s motor to run and had lots of bodywork to do for his completed project.
Each of the tractors he has restored for 4-H projects has been stripped to the bare bones, sanded, all hydraulics and mechanical functions repaired and each of them was completely repainted by him to become fully functioning show-ready tractors. Cole put a lot of sweat and long hours into the restoration of these tractors with each of them having its own unique challenges.
The tractors are very special to Cole and to the White Family. Cole is very appreciative of the guidance he received from his father, Mike White, and his grandfather, Dennis White, who is pictured with him. Our family enjoys sharing these tractors with others by participating in numerous tractor rides, parades, and sometimes just a casual ride around town on a nice day.
Dena White
Osceola, Iowa
2022 Tractor Photo Contest Winner
