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HomeMy WebLinkAbout28th Huron Pioneer Thresher Reunion, 1989-09-06, Page 19THE CITIZEN, WEDNESDAY. SEPTEMBER 6. 1989. PAGE A-19. Antique admirers have lots of shows to attend BY USA BOONSTOPPEL It was so long ago that the steam powered tractors roamed the rich soil in this country that it’s hard to imagine that anything other than the compact but ppwerful gas tractors were used to till our soil. That’s why steam shows are so popular because they amaze today’s youth and retain Canada’s farming heritage. There are many steam shows in Ontario that bring history back to life and each show has something special and unique to offer visitors who come to relive and learn about the old days. In Southern Ontario there are approxi­ mately 12 antique and historical shows where steam engines, antique tractors and cars and old machinery can be viewed during the summer months. The following is a brief description of each of these shows. The information was gathered from various steam show followers who attend or organize the events. The summary is intended to give a general idea of the shows and the unique event each offers, it may not include every activity or display available at the show. •The first show of the season is the Historical show at the Paris Fairgrounds in Paris. This year it was held on June 9, 10 and 11. This show’s special attraction is its display of antique construction machinery. There is also antique road graders for the public’s perusal at the show. Besides these special displays, there are tractor pulls held every day featuring antique tractors. There are model trail engines and model steam engines along with the antique tractors and cars on the site. •The next show in Southern Ontario is the Homesteader’s in Mount Brydges that was held on June 17 and 18 of this year. This show can be thought of as a musical extravaganza because there is continuous old-time music being played all day long for both days. For the popcorn lover there is an antique popcorn machine that is run by a small steam engine. This show has a significant number of antique cars on display to which visitors can gaze upon between watching the log sawing and spinning demonstrations. Yet, the most unique attraction at this show is the muzzle loaders (antique guns) that have target shooting demonstrations. Then on the final day, there is a parade that makes it way through Mount Brydges and features all the old-time locomotives. •Next in the season is the Niagara Antique Power Association show which is held in Fort Erie on July 1 weekend. Although it’s a smaller show, it has an excellent display of antiques. The show is held on a farm where a sawmill demonstra­ tion as well as gas engine tractors can be seen. The main attraction is a grandstand show where antique car restorers put together a Model T car. •Ilderton hosts the next show on the Southern Ontario steam show list which is called the Tri-County Heritage Club show at the Ilderton Fairgrounds. This is a small show as well that’s been going for about 15 years. Every year, this show features a particular make of tractor. This year, there was a large exhibition of Massey Harris tractors. •The Golden Horseshoe City at the steam show in Caledonia is the main attraction at this event which is held in the beginning of August. The Golden Horse­ shoe City is a man-made street where old-fashioned shops are featured. Shops such as the blacksmith’s, the candy store, the gunshop and the autoshop line both sides of the street. There are about 20 shops altogether. A steam run musical instrument called the Calliope can be seen at this show along with a daily tractor pull and tug-of-war contest. •The beautiful scenery around Georgian Bay makes their steam show on the first weekend in August a beautiful event at the Beeton Fairgrounds in Beeton. This steam show features many engines run either by steam or gas. This event also has a good talent show. •Heritage Village is the site for the Essex County Steam and Gas show held in Essex. Since it’s located on Museum grounds there are many old-fashioned buildings to visit which include an old school, a blacksmith shop and an old store. There is also a plowing demonstration using the old steam engines. •For about ten years, the Kettle Valley Pioneers have hosted a show in St. Thomas. Considered a friendly show, it Continued on page A-20 Back and forth goes the saw as Marian Hallahan of Blyth, the secretary on the Thresher executive pits her strength at the log sawing competition, one of the many competitions going on during the weekend. ALL OF US AT West Wawanosh Mutual Insurance Co. in Dungannon wish all of you a great 28th Pioneer Thresher Reunion 529-7922 Chauncey's p hairstyling Inc. •Expert Cutting •European Perms & Tints •All Hair Care Products •U.V.A. Suntanning Chances are — you'll love it. Queen St., Blyth, Ont. 523-9722 BUSINESS 482-9371 REAL ESTATE LTO 82 Albert St., Clinton RESIDENCE 523-9338 Hensail Co-op is pleased to provide farmer-owned grain and bean elevator facilties in Londesboro. By working together, farmers can build their own successful agri-business! NOW RECEIVING WHITE BEANS Over 900 properties successfully marketed in Huron County since 1971 • Fast efficient service • Wagon dumpers Congratulations to the Thresher Reunion. 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