Route I, Box 139, LeCenter, MN 56057
Several years of planning by many interested people have gone
into the formation of the new Hart-Parr Oliver Collectors
Association. An informal kick-off meeting was held in July at the
Illiana Antique Power Association show in Boswell, Indiana with
many collectors in attendance from surrounding states. From Boswell
the sights were set on Charles City, Iowa and the formal summer
convention and meeting. The Cedar Valley Engine Club hosted the
formal summer convention in conjunction with their annual show over
the Labor Day weekend at their show grounds seven miles west of
Charles City. It was fitting to hold this meeting at Charles City
as it is the home of the Hart-Parr and Oliver tractors. A
hospitality tent was set up in the tractor area surrounded by
approximately 60 Hart-Parr and Oliver tractors. Examples of all
models were on display, from the large 1913 30-60 Hart-Parr down
through the light weight Hart-Parrs, the Oliver Hart-Parrs, the
fleet-lines, the late style Olivers, and onto the new White (WFE)
models.
On Saturday evening a delicious meal was served by the ladies of
the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Charles City, followed by the
meeting of the new Association. About 125 people were in
attendance. As with any new organization, the ground work has to be
laid first. The list of by-laws were discussed and decided to be
voted on at the next annual meeting. Next the election of officers
took place and they are as follows:
President, Wayne Wiltse from Charles City, Iowa; Vice-President,
Mike Hodupp from Van Buren, Indiana; Secretary, Bruce Yamitz from
Prairieville, Missouri; Treasurer, Ken Johnson from Charles City,
Iowa.
Directors are: Blane Bolte from Walcott, Iowa; Jim Kline from
Greenfield, Ohio; Bill Meeker from North Henderson, Illinois; Eland
Mumm from Ceresco, Nebraska; Mike Shanks from Nora Springs, Iowa;
and Bob Tallman from Harbeson, Delaware.
Tentative plans were made to hold the 1991 summer show
convention in conjunction with the Miami Valley Steam Threshers
show in Plain City, Ohio.
The Hart-Parr/Oliver Collectors Association has adopted the
following statement of purpose:
1) To help preserve the history of Hart-Parr, Oliver and
associated companies (Nichols & Shepard Co. and American
Seeding Co.) acquired by Hart-Parr and Oliver.
2) To promote the history of the Hart-Parr, Oliver and
related companies.
3) To aid the collectors of Hart-Parr and Oliver tractors,
combines and implements in restoration and preservation.
4) To promote the collection and care of Hart-Parr and
Oliver machinery, memorabilia and other related items.
5) To assist in the establishment of a museum dedicated to
the care, display, and interpretation of historical artifacts and
equipment associated with the Hart-Parr and Oliver companies.
Anyone wishing more information can contact the Association at
205 N. Main Street, Charles City, Iowa 50616.