Fond memories and history of the Loyalsock Valley Antique Machinery AssociationMany years ago Dan Carey and Max Swisher met while trucking farm equipment. Both Dan and Max shared an interest in farm equipment and enjoyed going to different machinery shows to experience a past way of life. An appreciation grew along with the desire to create a similar experience in the Williamsport area.
Together Vonnie Aikey, Joan Day, Russell and Ruth Houseknecht, and Gene Berry gathered in Dan’s living room to discuss their common interests. They agreed having an antique machinery show in this area would be a great idea. With that thought began the research to see where these shows took place: the towns, the physical location, the dates of other similar shows, and other ideas for crowd-pleasing activities. When all the data was collected and processed, the date and location were set for the first LVAMA show.
The first show was held on Route 87 at Dan Carey’s property. The original event showcased 20 tractors, a few Hit and Miss engines and antique cars. With 40 to 50 people in attendance, the weekend was a success! The charter members began planning for next year’s show.
Dan Carey began preparing for the future of the organization and set up a meeting with the Lycoming County Sportsmen. They met for coffee at the Old Gateway to discuss the show. They say, “location, location, location” is the key for a good show. The show was held in a rural valley which captures the beauty of the area. For one weekend the valley goes back in time to share the knowledge of the past and how the equipment has evolved: from horses to tractors, from steam to gas.
As the show enters its 31st year, membership has increased from the first meeting, but the strong values the club was created under have not. There is so much to offer everyone of all ages.
Over the years the Loyalsock Valley Antique Machinery Association and Show has benefited from individuals who want to help preserve the past. These individuals have donated time, energy, knowledge, guidance and equipment which help create a fun and educational experience for all.
Different Hit and Miss engines and Tractor manufacturers are spotlighted every year, with visitors learning about various types of equipment. Guests learn about the common machinery used today, along with pieces which are rarely seen or used, threshing machines which prepare oats, a bailer and numerous other machines. Families will enjoy arriving in horse drawn wagons from the parking areas. Visitors can experience the Shingle Mill and Box and Bat making exhibits or stroll thru the flea market and find everything from old tractor parts to crafts, toys and new items. The possibilities are limitless.
Another important feature at the LVAMA show is the lumberjack event and an antique sawmill. In the show’s history there have been two mills donated by Winter’s Lumber and Easton and Carey Lumber. The Winter Sawmill runs with a saw used for over four generations. These sawmills are run mainly by steam engines but sometimes tractors will supply the power. Recently the Winter Sawmill was returned to their family to help insure it’s preservation.
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Special thanks to Dan Carey for his help in documenting the first days of the LVAMA.
The first full weekend in August is going to be better and more exciting than last year! Join us again this year for our Annual Loyalsock Valley Antique Machinery Association Show.