Heartland Acres announced this week that the world’s largest tractor, “Big Bud 747” will now stay on display until August 22. That is three weeks longer then originally planned. The extended date is due to the demand to see this awesome piece of farm machinery.
“Since Big Bid arrived in April more than 16,000 visitors have come to Heartland Acres,” commented Craig Johnson, Heartland Acres Board Member. “As soon as we realized the demand, we started working with the owners to extend the stay to give more people an opportunity to see it.”
Over the fourth of July weekend Heartland Acres had over 1,100 visitors. The museum recognized a family from Pella, Iowa as the 1,000th visitor for that weekend. The lucky family received a prize pack that included Big Bud T-Shirts, hats, and three Big Bud toy tractors, one for each boy in the family. They also had a chance to climb up into the cab of Big Bud, which is normally off limits.
“Big Bud has put Heartland Acres and Independence, Iowa on the map,” said Programs Director, Leanne Harrison. “We have had visitors come from as far as North Carolina and Texas, just to see Big Bud and spend a day in the area. The many people we talk to are so impressed with the museum and the exhibits we have on display.”
Heartland Acres is also planning more special events now that Big Bud is going to be here longer. On Sunday August 8th Heartland Acres is going to have a Gas Engine Show. Plans are still in the works so please stay tuned for more information.
Heartland Acres is open Monday – Saturday 9:00am- 4:30pm, Sunday Noon-4:30l located at 2600 Swan Lake Blvd. in Independence, IA along Highway 20 on exit 252. For more information visit their website www.heartlandacresusa.com.
