The Fenders Antique Tractor, Engine, and Homestead Show is a non-profit organization dedicated to the collection, preservation, restoration and exhibition of antique tractors, engines, vehicles, machinery, and other tools and crafts of historical value.
Our main show is in July when we always have 100+ tractors and a similar number of engines on display. At our show, we have chosen to keep the focus on farm related and “old” things. We discourage the display or sale of imported “flea market” type items.
We also have a swap meet in October for the sale and exchange of all kinds of old rusty junk and other treasures.
How We Are Organized
Our Show organization is unusual in that there are no “members”, “dues”, or “committees” common to similar organizations. We only have a Chairman, a Secretary/Treasurer, and a Board of Directors to oversee the business dealings of the Show. The Board generally consists of the founders of the Show. All work is done by local volunteers who jump in and get it done with little direction. So far, this method of operation has worked well.
We have covered dish suppers at the Show site three or four times a year to “meet and eat” and report on Show business and plan upcoming events. Anyone is free to attend and express an opinion and suggest improvements for the next show. If you suggest it, and it is acceptable to those present, you will probably be put in charge of getting it done. If you would like to be notified of these meetings, sign up for the mailing list at the Registration Tent at the show.
How We Got Started
In 1993, Daris Richesin was visiting with Bill and Popeye Miller when the conversation turned to old tractors. They had been to other shows and thought it would be fun to do the same. The proceeds could be used to help support the Fenders Community Center. Others in the area who had tractors or old engines were contacted and the first Show was off and running. No one really expected that it would become an annual event. Shows were held at the Fenders Community Center for the first five years but grew too large for the site.
In 1997, after the July Show, Bill and Popeye Miller offered the use of part of their farm for the next year. Everyone got busy and built a concession stand and restrooms in time for the 6th Annual Show in 1998. Several buildings, and permanent displays have been added over the years.
Although the Show is no longer associated with the Fenders Community Center, the name “Fenders” has stuck to the Show.