Erickson carries on family tradition

(Adam Erickson poses by his Avery at the Threshermen's Reunion near Pontiac)

Adam Erickson of Pontiac is a regular at the annual Threshermen’s Reunion.

His family has steam engines and antique gas tractors on display at the show which runs throughout the Labor Day weekend.

“My grandpa helped start the show years ago so we’ve been coming every year,” Erickson said.

Erickson was spotted near a 1914 Avery built in Peoria which his grandfather bought in 1963 and restored in 1965.

“We just got done restoring it again,” he explained.

While parts are easy to come by for more modern farm equipment, that is not the case for these antique machines. You must know someone certified to build the boiler or make patterns and castings.

With John Deere being the theme this year, it is only fitting that Jim Girard of Pontiac has numerous tractors displayed on the grounds.

“We fly the green flag at home,” Girard said.

Girard serves as one of the Threshermen’s Reunion directors.

Since the event is marking the 60th year of the 4020, they tried to get as many 4020 tractors at the park as possible.

(One of the displays at this week's Threshermen's Reunion)