"We have about 75 members," Ray says.
"Probably 10-12 are typical of antique engine/tractor people. A lot of our members do not own anything in the way of collectibles: They're just interested in it."
In recent years, a local historic preservation society has joined forces with GAMTRA. Working together, the two groups have located some old structures-- barns and houses from the early 1800s-- and are relocating them to the showgrounds for permanent display.
The vintage cotton gin, though, remains a strong draw.
"In recent years, there's been a tremendous increase in the amount of cotton grown in North Carolina," Ray says. "And there's been a tremendous advance in the technology of cotton gins. The new ones turn out a bale every couple of minutes."
But what do people come to see? A 95-year-old hand-fed gin that generates a couple of bales in a weekend. For more information: Cotton Ginning Days, in care of Dr. Ray Medford, 2623 Shaw Avenue, Gastonia, N.C., 28054; (704) 864-7329. The show is traditionally held on the second full weekend in October. FC