Route 2, Box 330, Bridgewater, Virginia 22812
The ninth annual Steam and Gas Meet and Lawn Party, sponsored by
the Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Company, is history. Once again, the
show was a tremendous success.
Gas engines, gas tractors, steam engines, antique cars, all in
running condition, were enjoyed by those attending. What an
opportunity to get away from the modern fast pace, as we know it,
and relive those ‘GOOD OLE DAYS,’ and at
Bridgewater…….Admission is Free!
Bridgewater offers more than a steam and gas meet. Situated in
the mid-Shenandoah Valley, bounded to the west by the Shenandoah
Mountains and to the east by the Blue Ridge Mountains, this
Virginia community of 2,500 thrives on the agricultural economy so
prevalent in the area. Rolling farmlands, with livestock dotting
the fields, make the Valley a pleasant escape from the hustle and
noise of large cities.
Before we stray too far from town, let’s get back to last
year’s Steam and Gas Meet. The weather was excellent! Crowds
exceeded 10,000 each night, and they spent many hours enjoying the
antique exhibits. Almost 300 gas engines, 80 farm tractors, 250
antique automobiles, several steam engines, and much more was on
hand for demonstration. Sawmilling, the blacksmith, smoke rings
from the big Fairbanks, and as I mentioned……Admission is
Free!
How about a country ham sandwich? Fried chicken, french fries,
the many games and rides make the Bridgewater Volunteer Fire
Company’s Steam and Gas Meet something for the entire family to
enjoy.
At the Bridgewater show, exhibitor. Special exhibitor parking
has been available the past two years and is planned to continue.
Improvements have been made, such as available water in the exhibit
areas, a loading dock, parade route, better lighting, and more
efficient use of space, to mention a few. Camping facilities are
available along North River at nearby Wildwood Park, and here
again……Admission is Free!
The Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Company realizes everyone
entering the grounds will not be pleased. This does not relieve us
of the responsibility of trying. Mistakes have been made in the
past, and probably more will occur. I am unaware of a perfect show,
but we are trying! At least we are going in the right
direction…..our Admission is Free!
Success at Bridgewater cannot be credited solely to the Fire
Company. This show is succeeding because of improved fire
protection, and fond memories of America’s agricultural
past.
The Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Company is anxiously looking
forward to its Tenth Annual Steam and Gas Meet and Lawn Party.
Plans are to include an antique tractor pull during the 1979 show.
More information will be available on this later.
It’s the time of year to work on the old relic and make
plans for 1979. We hope those plans will include a trip to
Bridgewater. Mark the date now on your vacation calendar, July 19,
20, 21,1979. The Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Company extends an
invitation to all for the Tenth Annual Steam and Gas Meet and Lawn
Party. As you enter the grounds you may be surprised to
learn……The Admission is Still Free!!
