UAW Local 662 2025 Hilcrest Drive, Anderson, Indiana 46012
On June 4-6, UAW Region 3 hosted its 15th annual Antique Gas
Engine and Tractor Show. This was the second year for the tractor
show at its new location at the Marion County Fairgrounds in
Indianapolis, Indiana. Mr. Terry Thurman, Director of Region 3, so
graciously invited us to join the UAW Trade Fair, held each year in
Indianapolis.
Thursday, setup day, was very interesting. New cars, trucks,
concept vehicles, and state of the art goods that are manufactured
by union members in Region 3, were getting in their places for
presentation at the trade show on the north side of the
fairgrounds, while on the south side of the fairgrounds the old
antique relics of yesterday were also making their presence
known.
The summer sun glistened off the powerful and proud tractors.
Each model made a statement and those of us that attended the show
had the pleasure of hearing stories of how the exhibitors acquired
their treasures, and the history that accompanied them.
As the show got into full swing on Friday, the Case tractors
took center stage as the featured product line. Many other
different models were also exhibited. From the sleek-looking
orchard specials to the numerous Case tractors that A. K. and Jay
Gyger, Lebanon, Indiana, so graciously shared with us, it was an
awesome sight. Their Spirit of ’76 Case, adorned with the
‘Stars and Stripes’ of our flag, was a sight to behold.
On Saturday, the tractors were chugging around the grounds,
along with numerous Choremasters, antique cars, and old bicycles.
Gas engines, antique farm tools, farm toys, an antique wrench
display, and many other interesting exhibits were being enjoyed.
Once again, Richard Fox, of Anderson, treated us with homemade ice
cream. Needless to say, he was a very popular guy!
Dan and Barb Davis, also of Anderson, were kept busy the entire
show, as they directed people to the designated areas. They also
had to explain about their popular Wizzer Motor Bike. What a very
unique exhibit.
Saturday afternoon we held our antique tractor pull. Noblesville
Club members were kept busy with over 75 tractors participating. A
huge craft show and a country music show was being enjoyed by the
many visitors at other areas of the grounds.
Later Saturday evening the tractor show participants were
treated to an old-fashioned ham and bean dinner that was cooked in
an iron kettle over a wood fire. What a way to end a perfect
day.
There were 111 tractors and 200 gas engines that registered.
Participants from ten states and Canada were at our show. There
were thirty union locals represented.
Plans are already being made for next year’s show. The
Ford/Fordson Collectors Association, Inc. will hold its ninth
national meeting at our show, and the Shaw Du-All Registry will
also hold its seventh national show.
Everyone will want to attend this show, as a 1951 Ford tractor
will be given away. We believe that this will be our biggest show
yet, so start getting your equipment ready. The date for next
year’s show will be June 2-4, 2000. We would like to extend an
invitation to you to come to the show where old and new friends
meet.
For additional information, please contact: Morris Titus,
Chairman, Antique Gas Engine and Tractor Show, UAW Local 662, 2025
Hillcrest Drive, Anderson, Indiana 46012. (765)420231, Ext. 18.
