Old Threshers Returns

MT. PLEASANT — Midwest Old Threshers kicked things off Wednesday with the traditional Harvest Parade.

For many, Old Thresher’s is a tradition attended by family for generations, and those who have attended before are always excited to share their favorite parts with first-timers.

According to longtime Old Thresher’s attendees Delaney Van Ness and Jeremiah Carter, there are many must-see proponents of Old Thresher’s.

“You’ll have to drive a tractor,” Delaney Van Ness said, “and eat a turkey leg.”

As an Iowa Wesleyan Prima Voces singer, Carter suggests watching the Cavalcade of Power at noon on Thursday, as Prima Voces will sing the national anthem that day.

Throughout Old Thresher’s, the grounds will be filled with activities.

Take the opportunity to learn about steam engines, ride on one, and even participate in a strain robbery.

Stop by the log village for a unique experience and be sure to hit up the copious amounts of antique sales on the grounds.

Every day will be packed full of Old Thresher’s styled fun through Labor Day weekend.

Shuttle buses will begin service at 6 a.m. Thursday and will run throughout the weekend.

The ground trains begin operation at 7:30 a.m.

At 9 a.m. daily, Jeff McPheron will lead a greeting and devotion.

Chief Execuitve Officer Terry McWilliams and Mayor Steve Brimhall will officially open the reunion at 11:30 at the grandstand.

McWilliams and marketing director Grant Davidson will present the Midwest Old Threshers Volunteer Awards at 11:20.

Throughout the five-day festival, numerous demonstrations will take place including the blacksmith, horse demonstrations, and even how to drive a tractor.

At 5:30 p.m. daily the Theatre Museum hosts “The Old Grouch” by Neil & Caroline Shaffner.

The Grandstand welcomes musical appearances each night opening at 6:30 p.m., concerts start at 8 p.m.

Concerts are include with purchase gate admission, however, seats are on a first come first served basis.

One day admission to the reunion is $15, multiday admissions is $35, and kids 10 and under are free.

On Monday, Sept. 6, the last day of the event, the crowning of Miss Sweet 16 will occur at 10 a.m.

Wander the grounds and enjoy the blacksmith, sawmill operation, antiques, steam engine museum, and more.

Visit the Log Village for continuous living history demonstrations and other events.

Most of all, with over 2,000 exhibits and attractions be sure to stop by one of these places for your daily program sheet:

The Four Information Booths

Paul Anderson Welcome Center

Vera's Souvenir Stand

White Barn Souvenir Stand

Gas Engine Headquarters

Car And Truck Building

Tractor Headquarters

Steam Headquarters

Camper Hospitality

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com