WHISTLE … A Huber steam engine blows its whistle during a grandstands parade for the 80th annual reunion of the National Threshers Association.
(PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
SMOKE … Smoke filled the air this past weekend as steam engines took over the Fulton County Fairgrounds. This large and extremely popular event brought in people from all over to see these engines and take part in the large number of other activities available throughout the event.
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The 80th annual National Threshers Reunion was held in Fulton County this past week. The milestone event took place at the Fulton County Fairgrounds from Thursday, June 26th through Sunday, June 29th.
This year’s show marked 80 years since the first National Threshers Reunion was held in 1945, making it one of the longest-running steam and antique equipment events in the country.
The anniversary brought added excitement to a show already steeped in tradition, drawing enthusiasts from across the region to celebrate eight decades of mechanical heritage.
This year’s featured displays included steam engines built in Ohio, as well as International Harvester tractors, gas engines, and garden tractors.
Members of I.H. Collectors – Ohio Chapter 6 participated in the event, supporting the International-themed exhibitions. A total of 59 full-sized steam engines were listed in the official program, in addition to several half- and quarter-scale models.
Each day of the show included a full schedule of steam activities such as threshing, sawmilling, veneer milling, corn shredding, and plowing, along with demonstrations using Prony brakes, Baker fans, and the Power Eater.
Steam engine games and operator skill contests also returned, adding to the interactive experience for exhibitors and spectators alike.
Parades of antique equipment were held daily at 4:00 p.m. in front of the grandstands, offering seating for guests to enjoy the sights and sounds of restored tractors and engines in motion.
Spark shows lit up the infield after dark, following evening concerts and lantern walks through the gas engine area.
On Thursday, the event officially opened with a flag-raising ceremony and speeches from local officials. Entertainment that evening included a performance by Bridge Country Blue Grass.
Friday’s highlights included the popular tug-of-war event between guests and the Leo Bard steam engine, as well as evening spark displays.
Saturday brought a full lineup of activities including the Kiddie Tractor Pull, a concert by the Genoa American Legion Band, and a special auction of the 80th reunion banner near the announcer’s stand.
A church service was held Sunday morning by Pastor Richard Sauerlander in the new chapel building, followed by a final round of noon whistles.
While Sunday featured fewer scheduled events, visitors continued to explore the grounds and connect with exhibitors.
Throughout the weekend, guests could also visit model engine exhibits, shop a large flea market of tools, collectibles, and tractor parts, and enjoy food vendors stationed throughout the midway.
More than 400 campsites were available on-site, with many attendees staying the entire week to take in the full experience.