ROCK RIVER THRESHEREE

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In the late summer, the wives of the directors and members, organized their own auxiliary. At the show they operated a lunch stand, as well as selling fancy work and novelties. They done wonderful. Bless their little (pea picking hearts) what would we do without them??

Before the show a permanent exhibit was delivered to the park by Peter Burno, of Deforest, Wisc., president of our club. The exhibit is a 70 ton steam pile driver, the tower rising almost 100 feet skyward. A landmark that can be seen for miles. Pete has completely restored this rig, and operated it during the show. Driving 40 foot logs deep into the ground, much to the delight of the many spectators.

Sunday, Sept. 3rd, was a very hot beautiful day, much to the delight of everyone. Activities were coming to life, the aroma of food being prepared to serve the hungry spectators. Now and then a whiff of smoke mixed with steam, would fill the air. Everything ready for a busy day.

Just ahead of us a large 'Nichols & Shepard' backing into the belt at the saw mill owned by Si. Havey of Madison, Wisc. Ready to saw into boards, some choice cherry and walnut logs, later to be used in the repair and restoring of antique furniture.

Over to the west side of the park, the 1890 Jumbo is getting lined up to a case hand feed separator owned by Sayre & Horton, Edgerton, Down a ways a 65 horse case is plowing operated by Francis Reiner of Cambridge. This ground will be sown to winter wheat, next year's threshing grain. Yes, here we have everything. A helicopter gives rides.

On the way back a drag saw is busy sawing block wood, this has been in the Richard Carter family since 1885. Already Pete has steam up on Derick No. 1, ready to place logs over to the saw mill. The stage coach and four horses owned by Alf Barlass, Janesville, plus the many rides for the kiddies, adds to the amusement of the spectators.

It is high noon now. Many acres of the park area is filled with cars, a tremendous crowd has filled the park, ready to participate in the fun and festivities of an old time threshing bee. John Achey of Dresser, Wisc., was with us the three days of our show. John spent most of his time at the microphone, directing activities about the show for the convenience of the spectators. Also met some very fine folks from the 'Northern Illinois Steam Club.'

Mr. Rollie Spenberg, from W. R. E. X. TV, Rockford, Illinois, was present to entertain us with his magic. At 2 P. M. a very honored guest arrived directly from Washington, D.C., Congressman Schadaberg, to greet every one and to speak to the many people gathered around the arena.

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