Antique show brings back memories
Alison Bell
Published on
Jul 04, 2008
Ellis Moore has always been interested in the mechanical side of how things work.
Over the years on his St. Ann's farm, he has established a collection of old engines, toys and pumps.
So, in his spare time, he decided to put them to use. Moore has made a hobby out of building replica saws and pumps out of odds and ends.
"I had ideas of what I wanted to do. I can vaguely remember the old drag saws. Other than that (building replicas) comes from being on the farm," said Moore.
Instead of discarding the antique motors, Moore decided to preserve them for all to see.
Moore's work was on display at the Niagara Antique Power Association's 36th annual Heritage Display Sunday at Learn Heritage Farm in Sherkston. Moore's washer from the 1800s was also on display.
John Miller has been part of the association for more than 20 years. His interest in antique motors began 38 years ago on his father's farm. Now, he said, collecting has taken on a new meaning.
"It's about preserving history," he said during the show Sunday.
Members participate in collecting old cars, trucks, old steam engines, gas tractors, engines, models and other equipment. Displays and events are held annually on the weekend closest to Canada Day. In addition, members travel to events throughout the region all summer.
Ches Jones of Fort Erie brought his 10-year-old grandson Kolin Yandeau to the display to help him understand some of the things taken advantage of in today's society, such as pumping water.
"To us it wasn't a chore -- it was a fact of life," said Jones. "We used to have to pump water to bring it in to wash our clothes."
Jones said the corn spinner also brought back memories.
Next up for the Niagara Antique Power Association is a display at the Ridgeway Summer Festival in downtown Ridgeway July 5 and 6.