In celebration of Ag Week, Alliance Bank is highlighting the stories of farmers in our community…
Farming is all Craig Hall has ever known…and all he has ever wanted to do. Craig is the 6th generation to farm the ground that has been in his family for 160 years.
As we arrived at the Hall Family’s shed, just northeast of Monticello, 19-year-old Craig pulled out of the field with the disk. It’s early in the season, but he’s been asked to plant 3 acres of wheat for a neighbor’s bird habitat today. Craig stepped out of the tractor to greet us with grease-covered hands. It’s immediately clear he’s not afraid of hard work.
From an early age, Craig has farmed alongside his parents Tim and Cindy. By the time he hit his teens, he was in charge of tillage operations for the 600+ acres they farm. While in high school, Craig eagerly volunteered to farm the North White FFA’s test plot. “Everyone else’s equipment was too big,” he chuckled. He already owns 20 acres of his own.
Craig’s First Ag Loan
Craig is part of a blacksmith club and enjoys tinkering, particularly antique tractors. “Craig is an old soul,” shared mom. That explains the 1970 826 D Farmall he’s pulled out into the front yard. Barely old enough to vote, Craig came to Alliance Bank last month to apply for his first loan to purchase the tractor. With the guidance of Commercial Banking Manager Andy Rummel and a nod of approval from his parents, Craig had made his first significant purchase.
19-year old Craig Hall sits atop his 1970 Farmall 826 D on his family’s White County farm.
A 3-year model, the 826 D is somewhat rare. Craig has already discovered it’s hard to find parts for it. “It had a cab on it when I drove it home from Reynolds, but I took that off right away,” shared Craig. “It had a lot of road noise; it was echoing so loud.” He plans to put the tractor to work on the farm, but Craig will also join fellow tractor enthusiasts at the show this summer during the White County Fair.
The Road Ahead
Craig is entering his farming career during a season when margins are tight. His level-head, simple lifestyle, and strong work ethic will prove valuable as the Hall Family weathers the highs and lows of the industry. There’s no doubting the pride Tim and Cindy have in their son as he carries on the family’s legacy.
