The rich history of this supplier of equipment to farmers is fascinating, as are the many changes which have occurred in the marketplace and the locale since its beginning. Rick feels especially connected to the original roots, since he was hired by Grevis in 1968 and is also well versed in the history of Ford tractors, which were produced as part of the Ford Motor Company, beginning in 1939. Rick explained that at that time Ford's aim was the same as in the manufacture of automobiles - in this case to produce an affordable tractor for all farmers. For example, from 1939 to 1952, Ford produced one basic model-the 9N. The 2N was manufactured during the War years, and the 8N produced until 1952. Rick pointed to the current display of more than 20 models which offer hundred of options comparing today's choices with the only option available on these early models-headlights!

In discussing the early history of Payson Farm Machinery, Rick explained that Grevis constructed a building on Route 17, while operating from the Union Common. In addition to the tractor dealership, he also contracted eggs for First National Stores and operated a trucking business. The dealership flourished at the Route 17 location, and Rick has gathered a treasure trove of memorabilia from those early years. Carefully documented, handwritten ledgers record the sale of each tractor. "A vast difference from our fully computerized system of today," Rick said with a grin. His wonderful collection of old photographs capture folks visiting the dealership for an open house in a more simple era. Rick pointed out cases of Coca Cola in the background of one photo, explaining that soda pop was used as a promotional tactic to draw in visitors to the dealership.

According to the detailed ledger, the first tractor was sold on July 18, 1948 to Ben Nichols, who farmed at his homestead on Route 235 in Hope. Six identical tractors of the one model available, 8N, were sold in the first year. Rick told a great story about a 1953 tractor which was taken back in trade last year. "The original owner kept this machine in tip-top shape, and if he were alive it would never have been sold," he related. The tractor was traded in by a son-in-law of the original owner and the trade-in value was more than the original price!

Rick's first involvement with the dealership started in 1968 when he began working in the office, and later moved to the Parts Department. In 1969 Grevis died in a tragic snowmobile accident and the Payson family continued to run the business for a time, then made the decision to sell. Rick left for approximately a decade, and during that time many changes occurred. In 1978, the business was sold to Peter Allen and was sold again in 1984 to three local businessmen who formed a partnership titled Union Farm Equipment, completing an evolution from being named Payson Farm Machinery, to Payson Allen, to the current name, Union Farm Equipment.

In January of 1990, Rick and Sandra bought one half of the business, entering into a partnership with local dairy farmer Lincoln Hawes, one of the three original partners. In September of that year, they negotiated to purchase there of the company, excluding real estate, and became sole owners. According to Rick, many problems were encountered along the way, but slowly and surely the couple has worked to build the business, attacking one issue at a time. For example, Worker's Comp was a big concern, adding huge sums to operating costs. Rick believes that the important legislative reforms mandated in the early 90s ensured the survival of many small businesses. "Other battles have been fought and problems solved over the past seven years, bringing us to where we are today," said Rick.

From the beginning, the dealership was strictly one line, offering Ford tractors and related equipment. As the times changed, it became increasingly clear that inventory needed to be expanded. In 1991, the decision was made to add Honda lawn and garden equipment as well as generators. "Honda manufactures super quality merchandise," Rick said, explaining that a great deal of research preceded their choice. Since then, the business has grown every year, with Rick and Sandra reinvesting profits. In 1994 the Kubota line was added. "We went big time into compact equipment, but maintaining our service to full-time farmers is still very important to us," said Rick.

As noted previously, shifting trends have dictated the direction the Dodges have taken in their business decisions. The landscape has changed greatly in the midcoast, with the number of fulltime farmers declining and many folks working their land and gardens part-time. Rick noted that inland lots of farms are still in operation, but here along the coast, a major decline began with the demise of the poultry business. "Poultry farmers needed large and small equipment to deal with manure, sawdust, etc.," Rick explained. There are also fewer dairy and beef operations locally. Now, landscape contractors are a newly tapped customer base. "If we're not growin', we're not gain'," Rick said with a smile, explaining that the changes had to take place in order to continue the business.

In June of 1995, Union Farm Equipment moved into a new home across Route 17 from the old "home place." The facility is more suitable for the current business, which now offers a widely diversified selection to include walk behind mowers, and a variety of hand-held equipment. Rick talked about one of the things he misses most in today's fast-paced world. "Because of our large customer base, I miss the rapport with individual farmers," he said. "The necessity of computers has also affected a major change in our way of doing business, but I miss the daily contact and the friendships developed with our suppliers," Rick added. "A lot of the fun has gone out of the business due to the loss of these interpersonal relationships," he concluded, noting many folks now expect 'instant service' in all aspects of their lives. "I call it the McDonald's syndrome," Rick grinned, and asked, "When did we get to be the 'I want it now' generation? Remember when we'd go to a restaurant, order a meal, then sit back and chat?" he continued, lamenting that it seems there's no time to relax nowadays.

Rick again noted the importance of changing with the times by adding new product lines to expand the customer base, while maintaining and keeping in touch with old clients. "We still sell parts for tractors sold in the 50s and 60s," Rick said, adding that customers come from all over Maine. "We're well known in the marketplace for our experience with this machinery," he concluded. Rick points to another reason for the excellent reputation for service provided by Union Farm Equipment, and gives credit to the service people involved. "Knowledge and experience have been passed down through the years," he explained. Some information can't be found in a parts book or a service manual. "I believe we're unique in this regard," Rick continued' pointing to the relationships maintained with customers throughout the years.

Note: In 2004, Rick and Sandra sold Union Farm Equipment to their daughter and son-in-law, Debby and Ken Keiran, who continue to operate the company with the same care and service that has made Union Farm Equipment the best source for agricultural and lawn equipment in midcoast Maine.