R. R. 7, Thamesuille, Ontario, Canada
The 20th Annual Western Ontario Steam Threshers Association
Reunion was held at the Brigden Fair Grounds in Brigden on August
19,20 and 21, 1977.
There were 18 steam engines and 62 tractors on display and there
was also a large selection of gas engines and small farm machinery
being displayed. The steam engines and tractors were in the parade
which traveled around the grounds on all three days. Also taking
part in the parade, were the ox-pulled Prairie Schooner of the
Butlers, the team of trained pigs belonging to the McPherson’s
of Alisa Craig and a large selection of antique cars.
Also on display were several working models, one of which was
brought by Charlie Dykeman, while others were displayed by the
London Model Club.
Russell Orth had a Frick engine (an American engine built in the
style of the early steam engines) on display.
If the people became tired from all the walking and they still
wanted to see what other activities were going on on the grounds,
there were two means of transportation. Fred McCormick had his team
of horses and a wagon while others could travel around on a
double-decker bus owned by W. G. Thompson and Sons of Blenheim.
The flea market, which was held on all three days, proved quite
successful with a lot of quality merchandise and dealers
participating. Also well visited was the Bean Pot, managed by Ken
Crowe of Walla ceburg with assistance from Reg Kemp. The Bean Pot
offered home cooked beans, cooked over an open fire.
The threshing demonstration, which was held throughout the three
day event, allowed the members of the Western Ontario Steam
Threshers Association to show how things were done in the days gone
by.
Earl and Martha Heywood, recording artists, presented a grand
stand show every afternoon. Other demonstrations which kept the
people entertained were the log sawing, hay baling, and shingle
mill.
This year the Western Ontario Steam Threshers Association
Reunion will be held on August 18,19 and 20, 1978.
