More than 200 exhibitors registered at the United Auto Workers UAW Region 3 Antique Tractor and Trade Show held in June, southeast of Indianapolis. The UAW Gas Engine and Tractor Show originated at UAW Local 662 in Anderson, Ind., but has been combined with the UAW Corporate/Employer Trade Fair, and is made possible by Region 3, UAW, Terry Thurman, director. Joining the group were the National Antique Ford Tractor Association and the Shaw Du-All Garden Tractors Club, both holding their national gatherings at the event.
Among the exhibitors was Glenn Birk, Mankato, Minn., who brought a unique Fordson tractor, an AF American with hard rubber, to the show. The tractor’s wheels were originally painted so that pilots could see the tractor on the landing field as they approached a base in Duluth during World War II. Lester Crouch, Burlington, Iowa, exhibited Shaw Du-All equipment at the show; he will host the national Shaw Du-All show in 2001. And Bernard Hatchett, Nashville, Ind., brought a collection of 54 pedal tractors to the UAW show.
The event included 235 gas engines, 152 Ford tractors, 166 miscellaneous classic tractors, 81 Shaw Du-Alls, and 20 miscellaneous displays, including hog oilers, tools and eggbeaters. A tractor pull drew 85 hooks. Exhibitors represented 26 states, Canadian provinces, and 39 local unions.
Some went home as particularly happy campers: Susan Harrington, Marion, Ind., won a fully restored 1952 8N Ford tractor; James Fannin, Morehead, Ky., won a 2000 Saturn automobile; and Dave Arthur, Indiana, Penn., won a Ford wall clock. FC
