Widlund Open House Showcases All Things Allis-Chalmers
Charlie and Mavis Widlund are proud to have an extensive collection of all things Allis-Chalmers. Extending just beyond an impressive collection of tractors, their museum includes a wide variety of memorabilia across their entire farm. For one weekend every year, the family puts all of his tractors and collector items on display for the general public to enjoy – entirely for free.
Charlie began collecting tractors in the 1970’s. At first, he wasn’t a collector of the smaller items the way his uncle, Don Hartman, was. He would pick up a new item here or there, but it wasn’t until the late 80’s when he really picked up collecting, and would take any Allis-Chalmers related item he found.
The Widlund collection only began doing an open house event in the last decade. Since then, they have continued adding new sheds to the farm to display their collection and showcase a beautiful museum setup of memorabilia. The items go beyond just tractors, which there is an impressive range of – from mini versions to toy replicas to the well conditioned, hard working tractors.
“People didn’t realize they made refrigerators,” Charlie commented on while standing in front of the handful of Allis-Chalmers refridgerators he has in the museum. He continued on by then showing an army vehicle with electric heater flyer suits, and a replica tractor made all out of match sticks with a removeable front to view the engine.
“Everything has a bit of a story,” Charlie noted. Some items in the collection date back as far as 1914 and 1928.
Charlie shared his collection has come from near and far. It is a mix of donated items, purchased items, scavenged ones – each item has a story behind it, and Charlie is happy to share its history. The best part of visiting the Widlund Museum is getting to talk with Charlie and hear the backstory each item has. The charm of the museum simply cannot be replicated in a blog post – it is best experienced in person. Several items have been donated by people who want their item to be preserved and well attended, as they know Charlie and Mavis Widlund do a great job of preserving Allis-Chalmers history,
The Widlund family offer refreshments during their open house weekend, which typically sees around 300 people each year. This year it is taking place on Labor Day weekend, August 29 – 31, from 8 AM – 6 PM each day on their farm at 60162 290th Ave, Palmer IA 50571.
On a regular year, the open house is typically held the same weekend as the Wiegert Prairie Fall Fest during the 4th Sunday of August. You can follow their Facebook page for the most up to date information on their open house every year. You can also schedule an appointment to visit the museum at any time by calling Charlie and Mavis at 712-359-2454.
