4077 Day, Burton, Michigan 48519
It is usually a lot of fun, going to the different machine shows
that one could attend over the summer and fall. Most of the
participants are great people. This past September, while at a
local show in Michigan, we had the opportunity to see many exhibits
and listen to the many engines and tractors being run. There were
different things available for sale at these displays, as well as a
big area of items being sold flea market style. Most of the people
are from local areas, as well as out of state, and from neighboring
states also.
While I was looking at one of the displays with some
miscellaneous parts and engines for sale, I found one that I wished
to buy; a 11/2 horse Hercules at a reasonable
price. As I was speaking to the owner and agreeing on the purchase
of it, the sale was rudely interrupted by a dealer from Indiana who
underhandedly bought the engine. This took place while I stood
there with some friends, who witnessed the strange transaction.
While I was upset and dismayed over what happened, I felt it
would be better not to make a huge tantrum over it. I could not
help thinking what shoddy salesmanship it was for one to deal that
way. Both of the men were wrong to conduct themselves in that
manner. While it might not be the most important thing to some, I
felt it should be brought to the attention of others who might have
had, or maybe will have a similar experience. So I determined to
vent my ‘steam’ in an article to this magazine.
Machine displayers and enthusiasts are a pretty nice bunch of
people, usually. This episode was, in my feeling, unethical for
either of the persons. Engine people should have more
integrity.
In the future, I would hope that our groups, and all who
participate, would be more aware of what is taking place, and to
make an effort to promote courteous and gentlemanly actions. We do
not want to hurt those who do this as a hobby or as a special
interest. Cheap huckstering is uncalled for, and should not be
condoned. It would not take a lot of this behavior to put the
damper on our swap meets, and other events. Let’s promote
fairness.
Hope to see you at future shows and swap meets.
