Merritt Heaton, the oldest active farmer in the state of Illinois, stole the show during his appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. At 97 years old, Mr. Heaton looked remarkably fit and healthy, a testament to a lifetime of hard work on his farm in Toulon, Illinois.
When Mr. Heaton initially received the invitation to come on the show, he was reluctant to accept. However, after some persuasion from friends who believed it was an amazing opportunity, he changed his mind and decided to pay a visit to Johnny Carson‘s show.
During the interview, Johnny Carson asked Mr. Heaton about his daily routine on the farm, and he revealed that he still actively works on the farm, even at his age. He wakes up early in the morning, around 5:30 or 6:00, prepares his machinery, and heads out to the field. Mr. Heaton takes pride in running the tractor, hauling and unloading grain, all while still taking direction from his 78-year-old son who now manages the farm.
The conversation then turned to the changing times and how farming has evolved over the years. Mr. Heaton mentioned that the biggest change he witnessed was the introduction of electricity. He recalled a time when his grandparents’ home was lit by kerosene lamps and candles. Now, with the convenience of electricity, tasks like pumping water for livestock and having electric appliances in the kitchen are taken for granted.
Johnny Carson also spoke with Mr. Heaton about the changing roles of women and the independence they now enjoy. Mr. Heaton amusingly recounted how seeing a girl’s ankle used to be an exciting experience, highlighting the vast difference in societal norms then and now.
The conversation took a lighthearted turn when Johnny Carson asked Mr. Heaton about his love life. Mr. Heaton admitted to having a lady friend in California, whom he occasionally visits. He jokingly referred to her as a “go-getter” and emphasized that she keeps up with him even though she is younger than him.
Despite having a lady friend in California, Mr. Heaton confessed that he also sees someone back in Illinois. Johnny Carson playfully probed into the dynamics of having two potential love interests, to which Mr. Heaton candidly replied that they both know about each other now.
Wrapping up the interview, Johnny Carson commended Mr. Heaton for being an inspiration and expressed his admiration for his sharpness and vitality.
Mr. Heaton’s appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was a delightful reminder of the resilience and spirit that can come with age. His dedication to farming and his lively personality left a lasting impression on the audience, making it an unforgettable episode.
Originally aired on February 3, 1988
