2010 Show Highlights

2010 Featured Attraction: Allis-Chalmers Proudly Hosted the "Gathering of the Orange"

The "Gathering of the Orange" is the symbol of the annual gathering held around the country for all those who are collectors and/or enthusiasts of the Allis-Chalmers orange, related memorabilia, scale model toy reproductions, or the history of the Allis-Chalmers tractor.  We had a huge variety of A-C items in attendance in 2010.  It was like a sea of orange!

3-Day Tractor Ride

A special Allis-Chalmers caravan traveled 197 miles between Madison, South Dakota and Albert City, Iowa.  The group had overnight stays in Hills, Minnesota and Sanborn, Iowa and arrived at the Albert City Threshermen & Collectors Show grounds Thursday, August 12 around 3:30 p.m.  The caravan crossed three states, and was the third and final leg of a caravan that connects Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada and Oakes, North Dakota.  The tractor riders and support team members were treated to a delicious meal that evening of lettuce salad, homemade lasagna, garlic bread, fresh sweet corn and a variety of desserts and drinks.  (Photos and/or video coming soon.)

Tearing Down a "C"

Some of the dedicated Allis-Chalmers guys undertook a huge project in the northeast corner of Feature Building.  They completely tore down and rebuilt a "C" tractor during the weekend!  Spectators stopped by frequently to check their progress throughout the show to see if they would have it up and ready by parade time Sunday morning.  And they did!  Great work, guys!  (Photos coming soon.)

Feature Parade

The Feature Parade was held each day at 10:30 AM and was strictly for items belonging to this year's Allis-Chalmers feature.  Arland Lepper of Hubbard, Iowa did a fantastic job of announcing this parade, sharing bits and pieces about each of the MANY items that went by.  Thanks, everyone - they were great parades!  (Photos coming soon.)

Lawn and Garden Tractor Exhibits

Part of the special Allis-Chalmers feature this year was a display of lawn and garden equipment.  Hopefully you stopped by and saw the fork lifts, power vacs, field cultivators and tillers, plows, disks and end blades.  Thanks to the many exhibitors who brought these items for all of us to enjoy!

Items in Attendance

Charlie Widlund did a fantastic job of putting together an awesome lineup of some rare Allis-Chalmers items for us.  Just as expected, we were able to see a:

• 10-18 tractor from Royal Bierbaum of Griswold, IA
• 15-25 tractor from Dave Harrington of Western, NE
• 20-35 tractor (1926 Long Fender) from Arland Lepper of Hubbard, IA
• 1933 Waukesha WC tractor from Lavern Greif of Dallas Center, IA
• D 19 Beachmaster tractor from Gayle Schipansky of Marshall, MN
• M7 Snow Machine from Rich & Peg Liekweg of Iowa Falls, IA
• Hillside Model 60 combine from Gary Agrimson of Rogers, MN
• Complete line of A-C mini-bikes
• Complete line of A-C refrigerators

The CA and D-15 tractors were highlighted within the Allis-Chalmers feature this year, so exhibitors were encouraged to bring those models (as well as any accessories for them) to the show.

Allis-Chalmers Swap Meet

New to the Threshermen & Collectors Show this year was the addition of a Swap Meet.  This was held in conjunction with the hosting of the national "Gathering of the Orange".  The Swap Meet was for ALLIS-CHALMERS ITEMS ONLY, and was limited to equipment, manuals and parts.

"Gathering of the Orange" Banquet

A special Allis-Chalmers banquet was held Saturday evening, August 14.  This featured an Iowa chop dinner with all the trimmings, a special speaker, and door prizes.  Guests were asked to bring any items of interest to be donated at the special Allis-Chalmers Auction.  Social hour began at 5:00 PM, and the meal was served at 6:00.  A good time was had by all!