On Sunday, August 21, 1955, farmers in Harrison County were invited to the Stanton Hallock farm two miles south of Ridgeway to participate in an aerial tour of the county. For a small fee, they were treated to a 50-mile plane ride that lasted about thirty minutes. They were encouraged to bring a camera to “take pictures from the air of the old home place or that north 40 which has been giving trouble”. There were six four-passenger planes and the “Flying Farmers” (farmers who owned and flew their own private planes) were also welcome to participate. The Ridgeway Lions Club had a stand to serve food and drinks to attendees. (Harrison County Times, Aug. 18, 1955). Picnickers were invited as there were lots of shade trees and free ice water available.
Sponsored by the Soil Conservation District of Harrison County, the purpose of the event was to educate farmers about soil conservation. “It was stated that the effects of soil erosion are plainer when seen from above.” (Webb City Sentinel, Aug 18, 1955.)
The exhibits included soil and tissue testing, pest weed and grasses, a seed display by the S. W. Harrison F. F. A. chapter and an exhibit on legumes by the Cainsville F. F. A. Bud Phillips of King City demonstrated aerial spraying for weeds and insects. The planes and pilots were provided by the St. Joseph Flying Service.
