LaGrange Engine show returning to fairgrounds for 50th anniversary

WELLINGTON — It's the 50th anniversary all over again for the LaGrange Engine Club Show, which wasn't able to celebrate last year due to the coronavirus pandemic. Now it's "full steam ahead" in the return to the Lorain County Fairgrounds Sept. 17-19, and Chairman Chuck Miller said he believes it may be the biggest show in the club's history. "If it mimics the other shows I've been to this year, we're looking at a record-breaking show," he said. Miller has been involved in the engine show as an exhibitor for more than 20 years and has watched it grow tremendously. This is his first year at the helm. Visitors can expect to see a good turnout of steam and gas tractors, he said — not only is Saturday's antique tractor pull anticipated to draw a huge crowd, but there will be a "red vs. green" theme throughout the weekend, showcasing International and John Deere vehicles on exhibit. "You have all these rivalries and that's been a thing in the tractor community forever," Miller said. "Everybody has their favorite, whether it's the red or green." Miller's been a mechanic since his high school days and said while he loves working on any machines, his passion is farm gas engines. With modern car engines, you don't see any moving parts, he said. Old tractors are different, with the pistons, camshafts and belts exposed — it can all be seen working. "For me, it makes it a good educational experience, because people can see what's happening," Miller said. Education is one of the big goals of the engine show, and not just with tractors. This year's event will feature a working sawmill, shingle mill, nail-making machine, wheat threshers, baler and a mock oil well. There also will be blacksmith demonstrations, antique motorcycles, model engines and, of course, food. The show's large flea market is also popular, as is the annual auction. This year, the auction has been moved from near the front entrance of the fairgrounds to the speed gate and will take place Saturday morning. The show will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5 per day or $8 for a three-day pass. Children younger than 12 get in free with an adult. An annual club membership is $10. Contact Jason Hawk at (440) 329-7122 or news@lcnewspapers.com.