Old Thresher’s makes its return

Old Thresher’s Reunion has a long history in Southeast Iowa.

Founded in 1950 by Clark Everts, W.E. (Ted) Detrick, Ray H. Ernst, and Herman E. Elgar, the Old Thresher’s Reunion ran a total of 71 years without fail, until COVID-19 struck the nation.

This past year, the reunion was able to reopen like they hadn’t missed anytime at all.

Between 35,000 and 40,000 people from around the country attend the event every year and this last year was not an exception.

“It was great having the Old Thresher’s Reunion back with all the great nights of entertainment on the KILJ Stage,” Director of Public Relations and Marketing Grant Davidson said. “People were ready to get back out and have great fun on Labor Day weekend, with over 35,000 attending the five-day event.”

Over this past year, Old Thresher’s has not set dormant.

November 2021, the Santa House opened for children that attend the Festival of Lights.

Santa and his elves were available to hear the biggest hopes and dreams of good little girls and boys at the end of the 1.6 mile light tour.

Personally taken pictures were even allowed free of charge.

Many updates were also made to the Old Thresher’s grounds in anticipation of yet another successful year.

According to Davidson, 14 new 50 amp camping sites were installed in the campground utilized by reunion goers.

The stage in McMillan Park was squared off, new LED flood lights were installed by the stage area, and a new top was put on to benefit the many different entertainers and events the Reunion hosts.

Additionally, the grounds and lighting throughout the grounds also received updates.

All of these additions are ready for the upcoming Old Thresher’s Reunion Sept. 1 — 5, 2022.

Leroy Van Dyke, Jimmy Fortune, Malpass Brothers, Bellamy Brothers, Madie & Tae, and Russell Dickerson will benefit from these updates as they bring four nights of country music to the 2022 Old Thresher’s Reunion.

“This year is looking to be a great Reunion,” Davidson said. “Over 85% of the campground is already full of reservations.”

“One concert worth of reserved seats is sold out, and the other three are about to follow,” he said. “118 free ground entertainment offerings will be over the entire event. All the great demonstrations and the delicious food will all be back.”

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com