Editor's Note: This video and interview were recorded in 2016.
For Roy Bardole, preserving agricultural history is deeply personal. His family has seen first-hand the evolution of farming, from the horse-drawn plows his ancestors used to the advanced machinery he and his family operate today. This connection to his heritage drives his commitment to preserving agricultural history at a national level, a mission he’s extended beyond his family farm through involvement in the broader farming community. As a former chair of the United States Soybean Export Council, Bardole has long advocated for advancing sustainable practices and highlighting the role of American farmers on the world stage.
Bardole’s relationship with the Smithsonian grew out of this advocacy. By donating items from his farm and collaborating with the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History, he created a bridge between the past and future of American farming, inspiring visitors to consider the vital role of farmers in addressing modern challenges, from food security to climate resilience and cutting edge technology.
At the Smithsonian, Bardole’s contributions are a tribute to the American farmer. His vision extends beyond his family’s story, encompassing a broader narrative that highlights the impact of agriculture on the nation’s growth. Bardole hopes the Smithsonian’s exhibit will remind visitors of the values that define America’s agricultural heritage: hard work, dedication, and a connection to the land.
For Bardole, these values are more than ideals—they are experiences passed down through generations, and he hopes they will continue to shape future generations of farmers. The Smithsonian’s agriculture exhibit, with Bardole’s donated items, allows visitors to connect with these values, underscoring the importance of farming in America’s past, present, and future.
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