This quote from a rather unexpected source says it all about the tunneled power of steam, like those amazing locomotives seen at this year’s Central States Thresherman’s Reunion: “No steam or gas ever drives anything until it is confined. No Niagara is ever turned into light and power until it is tunneled. No life ever grows until it is focused, dedicated, disciplined.”

Joan Rivers said that.

Since we are not talking about focused lives, but literally focused steam energy, the idea comes through, of the power it takes to move these massive machines that were front and center at this year’s show. Traveling to the reunion in Pontiac, Ill., is like stepping back in time.

This year, Massey Harris equipment (and its affiliated companies) was featured. Around 15,000 people attend this yearly event, which lasts five days and ends on Labor Day. The reunion brings visitors from all over the Midwest and beyond to celebrate antique tractors and steam power, in particular.

This year was the 63rd Central States Thresherman’s Reunion. Beginning in 1949, the reunion – then and today – offered several events for visitors to enjoy. There was rock crushing, threshing, sheep shearing, tractor pulls and a variety of country music shows.

This year was the first year that the completed general store was open to welcome visitors inside to take a gander. Daily attractions also include a 1900 country school house, Singer sawmill, a 1910-era blacksmith shop, a 1920 Conoco gas station, craft show and flea market.

According to historical information, the reunion was the result of a dream and work of Dan Zehr, who wanted to acquaint a younger generation with the romance of the old steam threshing days and give old-timers a chance to reminisce. He hoped it would become an annual affair.

Dan was an implement dealer in Pontiac. For the last 12 years of his life he served as superintendent of machinery at the Illinois State Fair. In fact‚ the story goes he died at age 71 after he became ill while returning home from fulfilling his duties at the fair.

Thresherman’s Park is located on Illinois Route 23, two miles north of the intersection of 23 and Interstate 55 (exit 201). To learn more, visit www.threshermens reunion.org

Readers with questions or comments for Cindy Ladage may write to her in care of this publication.