STOCKTON - Cemetery Road in Stockton traveled back in time this weekend.
The annual Chautauqua County Antique Equipment show came to life on the grounds. Antique lovers and farm equipment enthusiasts alike were treated to a rare show full of unique items curated by Chautauqua County's Antique Equipment Association. The featured item, the Leader tractor engine, was a particular draw this year.
"We feature a different antique tractor and engine every year, and that's the main focus of the show," said Norris Nobles, publicity chair.
Article Photos
Tractors line up for a parade at the Chautauqua County Antique Equipment show Saturday in Stockton.
P-J photos by Nicholena Moon
Nobles gave up his usual post at the log-hewing station this year to help where he was most needed, such as the kitchen. As he served a long line of hungry event-goers fresh hot dogs, the thunderous sounds of real working machinery dominated the atmosphere.
The show started in 1975 at the Ellery Center Fireman's grounds, and has expanded exponentially in the years since.
"It's grown and grown," said Nobles. "It's especially grown since we got our own land."
Nobles typically works hewing logs at the show, which are then used to construct the 13 buildings on the land.
Surprisingly, the show does not take part in any fundraising efforts, nor is it financed through any sort of government sponsorship or grant.
"We are just what we appear to be," said Nobles. "We are some people out here having fun with antiquated technology, and we're here for the education and entertainment of the public. And it's a good thing."
Well-versed in the history of farmland technology himself, Nobles was happy to share his feelings on the subject.
"It's so determinative to the course of history," he said. "And it's what really makes us human- the works of our minds and hands."
He encouraged everyone to come and take in the sights and experience the show.
"Anybody can come around here and study these things. The mechanisms are out in the open. You can see how things work, you can see how people kept thinking and trying, thinking and trying to make things work."
The fair, which continues today from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., boasts several new exhibits antique afficionados will go crazy for. For instance, a genuine machine shop has sprouted up on the grounds.
"It's industrial but antique," Nobles said.
Also new to the grounds is a blacksmith shop, along with a shop that makes souvenir wood veneers.