John Deere would move here in 1836, build a house and a blacksmith shop. In 1837 he would make a ‘new improved’ plow out of steel that was shaped in such a way that the sticky black earth didn’t stick to it. His plow would eventually become so popular that he quit working as a blacksmith and instead dedicated all his time to making plows. In 1848 he would move his entire operation to Moline, Illinois, which is still the headquarters of the John Deere Company. John Deere would die in 1862 and would never see a motorized tractor which is what his company is known for. Our docent explained to us that most people have no idea that John Deere was a real person or that the company started with a plow!!

Ogle County Holiday Rentals

Change your mind
Book hotels with free cancellation
Treat yourself
Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
Sign in
Be picky
Search almost a million properties worldwide

Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Sign in

Sign up, it's free

Top Ogle County Hotel Reviews

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Sycamore, IL

10/10 Excellent

"My husband & I came up for the New Year to visit family. I had booked another hotel and we were so disappointed with our accommodations and came here and Syd was so amazing & accommodating! From now on…. This is going to be my home away from home. Breakfast was great, comfortable bed, pillows and towels that do sandpaper. "