2830 Dorothy Drive Lincoln, Nebraska 68507
The 12th annual Camp Creek Threshers’ summer show was held
July 17 and 18, 1988 at the club’s showgrounds near Waverly,
Nebraska (ten miles east of Lincoln). Again good weather and a
large crowd came to see the large display of quality restored
tractors and gas engines, and to enjoy the many other
activities.
The show is Nebraska’s largest, featuring a parade of power
with many operating activities during the two days. Each year we
feature a brand of equipment. This year it was Minneapolis-Moline
with over 60 restored tractors of that brand. The club selected a
1917 model ‘D’ Moline Universal tractor owned and restored
by Jim, George, and Frank Jonas as their feature tractor.
Our show is a working show. We have activities going at all
times, so that any time visitors arrive there is always something
to see. Attractions both days were threshing, an operating steam
crane, rock crushing, corn shelling, grinding, hand milking, and
butter churning; a saw mill, shingle mill, and blacksmith were
operating on a continuous basis. This year we used Minneapolis and
Case steam engines to operate threshing machines for the oats
raised on the showgrounds.
We feel fortunate to have the facilities to provide an
outstanding show. This year the club voted to purchase the
showground site. The grounds have available space to provide
housing for displays and exhibits, as well as open areas for
tractors, gas engines, and antique automobiles. Next year we are
developing the area across ‘the creek’ and hope to expand
the display and camping areas for the 1989 summer show.
During both days of the show, we feature the ‘Parade of
Power’ which draws a large audience. The grand entrance of the
1988 parade was led by the featured Universal Moline tractor. Since
it was the 50th anniversary of the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX, the
excellently restored UDLXs of the Roger Mohr and Leroy Wonder
families from Iowa followed. Next came the tractors of the
Minneapolis-Moline featured brand, then following were some 180
tractors of all other brands. Visitors as well as members are
welcome to participate in the parade.
Immediately after the parade on Saturday, the club features an
antique tractor pull. Members and guests get a chance to test the
pulling of their restorations in both steel and rubber tire
classes. Tractors, 1938 or older without modifications, qualify for
the tractor pull. Winners receive trophies for their performance.
On Sunday a kid’s pedal tractor pull was held. Following the
parade on Sunday, we held a slow race for M-M tractors.
‘Ladies, start your engines!’ was the call as the hand
crank contest was begun.
When not looking at the machinery displays, spectators can be
found touring the large flea market, the country store and craft
displays. Other fun activities include: watching local craftsmen
demonstrate their skills, snacking on the popped corn from Rich
Hart’s unique corn popper, and enjoying lunch with pie and ice
cream.
The 1988 show hosted ‘The Minneapolis-Moline Collectors’
with Minnie people coming from at least 15 states and England. We
thank those who brought and set up M-M displays and hope that they
enjoyed their stay with us.
‘Best restored tractors that I have ever seen,’ was a
comment that was heard as visitors lingered among the close to 280
restored tractors. Our gas engine display numbered more than 100
with many brands and models represented.
Mark July 15 and 16, 1989 on your calendar! That’s the dates
for next year’s show. Come on, and bring your Harvester
tractors, gas engines and equipment! You are always a welcome guest
at the Camp Creek Threshers summer show.
