ORANGE — This weekend will mark the 40th year Orange has organized a family event to celebrate a special type of ingenuity.
The Central Massachusetts Steam, Gas and Machinery Association plans to hold its 40th annual “Yankee Engine-uity Show” at Orange Municipal Airport on Saturday and Sunday. Exhibits will open at 8 a.m. and continue throughout the day.
Association President Stephen Upham said the festivities are great for families and small engine enthusiasts alike.
“It costs $3 for parking and, basically, everything besides food is free,” he said. “It’s just a good way for families to spend their day. They can see a lot of working exhibits, antiques, there’s going to be two blacksmiths demonstrating, a huge flea market, antique cars. There’s a little bit of everything for people to see.”
The airport also welcomes fly-in visitors and will be open and available both days.
Upham said the event has always had a good turnout but attendance varies depending on the weather. He said the weekend’s forecast appears promising.
“I expect that we’ll be at capacity on Saturday for sure,” he said. “Sunday is usually a lighter day.”
Upham said the “Yankee Engine-uity Show” is the biggest event scheduled for New England this weekend.
He mentioned he is a fourth-generation collector of engines and tractors and he has been affiliated with the association for at least 20 years. He said he joined because it was the engine enthusiast club closest to his home in Whately.
On Saturday, there will be a “kiddie tractor pull” at 11 a.m., followed by a tractor parade at 1 p.m. Music will be played by The Boot Hill Express Band from 6 to 9 p.m.
There will be a second tractor parade at noon on Sunday, followed by a raffle at 1 p.m.
A flea market with nearly 100 vendors will be open both days. On Wednesday, Upham said vendor space was still available but limited. People should call 413-527-4122 if interested.
Special features this year will include Sandwich Manufacturing Co. engines and Massey tractors. There will be various types of gas and steam engines, tractors, machinery and models on display, including a 1898 C.H. Brown Company steam engine built in Fitchburg.
Early bird registration is on Friday. More information can be found at: www.cmsgma.com
You can reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 258. On Twitter:
@DomenicPoli