A Tractor, a Legacy, and a Second Chance
How Dan Misener found his father’s tractor—and a deeper connection to family, community, and John Deere
When Dan Misener arrives in Waterloo, Iowa this year, he won’t just be bringing a tractor. He’ll be bringing a story years in the making.
A semi-retired custom harvester from Elk City, Oklahoma, Dan spent nearly four decades on the road before shifting gears into a new chapter - traveling the country to attend tractor shows, connect with collectors, and share his passion for John Deere history.
“I was a custom harvester for 38 years,” Dan said. “Now I travel across the country going to antique tractor shows… and meeting folks from all across the country, and even the world.”
A tractor with history
But the tractor he’ll showcase at this year’s Deere Days in Waterloo—a 1963 John Deere 3010 LP Standard—means far more than its rarity.
It was once his father’s.
“My dad was extremely proud of this tractor,” Dan said. “It was his pride and joy.”
After his father passed away, the family made the difficult decision to sell their collection of more than 70 tractors. Among them was the 3010. Dan let it go, knowing he couldn’t keep everything.
“I regretted it, but I thought, you know, I can’t keep them all.”
Finding it again
Years later, while walking through an auction, Dan stopped in his tracks.
Right in front of him sat the same tractor.
“I just could not believe what was sitting in front of my eyes,” he said. “This is dad’s tractor.”
With encouragement—and some persistence—Dan bought it back.
Today, that tractor travels the country with him, creating new memories while honoring old ones.
“It really doesn’t have anything to do with the tractor,” Dan said. “It’s the thing that connects us… whether it’s somebody that’s passed away or somebody you met yesterday.”
That connection is what makes events like Deere Days special. For Dan, it’s a chance to share not just a piece of equipment, but a piece of his family’s story.
About Deere Days at the Museum
Deere Days at the Waterloo Tractor & Engine Museum bring together collectors, employees and community members to celebrate America 250th. The event features historic and modern equipment displays, live blacksmith demonstrations, a 5k run/walk, STEAM on Wheels, and other activities for all ages.