THRESHING… Farmers work to put straw into the threshing machine which works to separate the edible grains from the straw. (PHOTO BY JACOB KESSLER, STAFF)
By: Jacob Kessler
The 77th Annual Reunion of the National Threshers Association took place at the Fulton County Fairgrounds this past weekend. Starting on June 23rd and ending on the 26th, the reunion takes place every year and features all kinds of farm equipment, vendors, good food and family fun.
This year’s event especially featured 10 HP and smaller steam engines, Minneapolis Moline Equipment, Alamo Gas Engines, and Moline Universal Tractors.
Equipment and engines of all kinds from the 1890’s to the 1970’s were also featured throughout the fairgrounds and on the track. Live threshing and sawing also took place at certain times each day out in the infield.
Other events that took place throughout the week include a parade each day at 4:00 p.m., tractor games, model building, people vs engine tug of war, live music, a church service on Sunday morning and more.
Numerous activities were available to keep everyone busy each day. Vendors filled the midway selling all sorts of items from old manuals, metal signs and artwork, models, small engines, crafts, tools and parts, antiques and more.
One of the Directors, Frank Johnson, explained that this is much more than just a steam show. “This is one of the oldest shows in the country. It’s always been more than just a steam show. 1945 and 2020 were the only years where we did not have a show.”
“That’s because it’s a gathering of friends and family, family traditions and making new friends and acquaintances. Everyone comes out to enjoy that and the hobby of antiques, tractors, steam and gas engines and model engines.”
This year’s event saw great weather with the exception of Sunday which saw rain hours before the event started. The Annual Threshers event may have concluded for the year, but it will be back next year for everyone to continue the long tradition and enjoy a nice weekend.
Jacob can be reached at jacob@thevillagereporter.com