This weekend the weather was right and the yard needed mowing at my sister Betty’s house. From out of her shed Roberta, the garden tractor, came.

Roberta is a classic member of our family, originally my father’s pride and joy. Of course he had no name for her, that came after he died. My sister inherited her and the name was given. Our Dad’s name was Robert, so it seemed only fitting that the tractor be named in remembrance of him. Our father took great pride in gardening and farming. This tractor I think was part of him. I know that it was a great source of pleasure to him.

Sometimes when I see Betty mowing her yard, I can almost see our father standing under the big oak tree watching with pride and approval. Smiling as he ­watches Roberta make one more pass around the yard.

Roberta is a 1949 Manley Eco­nomy 8hp garden tractor. Roberta and I share the same birth year.

Over the years she has served the family well. She has been rebuilt a number of times. Welding, repairs, tires and many batteries have been used to bring her back to her useful self. Each year after several days of TLC she manages to serve my sister another season. Betty, our brother Bob and I have been the key care givers for this fine piece of equipment.

Fifty nine years old. I think that is a remarkable service record. Most of my friends get about four of five years from their lawn tractors. They just don’t hold up  but ­Roberta ­manages to give a great ­performance year after year.

Betty and I discussed the need to schedule a day of maintenance  for Roberta. I think we will make a small celebration out of it. Maybe some drinks and snacks for us and two quarts of good motor oil for ­Roberta will be on the menu. A list of necessary parts will be made ahead of time. We will schedule a Saturday to have our Tractor Party.

Having a quality old garden ­tractor in my life has made my “View From the Road” seem a little more nostalgic this year.

Robert

Roberta

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