Jordan’s Story

I have always had a love for anything vintage that moves. When I was a young child, I was obsessed with Thomas the Tank Engine, which most of us know is a friendly steam locomotive in story books. In his books, in fact, there is a traction engine named Trevor. He was saved from scrap, much as some of our members have saved the mighty traction engines that broke the virgin ground throughout the midwest.

I can’t quite remember when my Dad and I first went to the Threshing Show, but after that I was completely hooked and look forward to it every year. The multitude of tractors of nearly every make, model, rarity, and age at the show never ceases to amaze me.

John and Steve Horter have inspired my interest in gas tractors. When I was young, they let me ride on their tractors in the parade. We have a 1951 Farmall H, restored by John, which I enjoy driving in the summer. Dad and I do minor fixes every year as the threshing show comes near.

When I used to go to the shop with my Dad at Horsch Anderson, I looked forward to Kevin Anderson showing me progress on every new steamer.

My grandpa, Lester Herr, who is 91 years young, has told me many stories how farming was done when he was young and he enjoys attending the show every year.

For the last two years, I have brought my Lionel train to the Toy Chest. I enjoy introducing young children to the hobby of model trains.

I attended Rollag Steam School one summer to learn more about steam engines. The steam operators at the show are so good to answer all my questions about the engines. I especially love running steamer- pulled plows out at the field!

I thank all the wonderful people who work to keep this club on its feet. I may be young, but I am a proud member of the James Valley Threshermen’s Association, and I hope there are many more years of success for this club.
Jordan, 12