For the past nine years, Wilson’s Old Tyme Harvest has brought together people from all walks of life for a celebration of farming traditions that span three generations.
It began with Ken Wilson, his son Kevin and his grandson Colton. This annual event offers a nostalgic glimpse into the way harvesting was once done, combining history with hands-on demonstrations.
The three men had gone to shows in the U.S. that had antique machines and felt this was something they could do in Canada. The three generations have a passion for the old equipment and it makes them incredibly happy when they get something running for the first time in 15 years.
Approximately 150 people came to the Wilson farm recently to see how this old equipment once worked. For the Wilsons, it is a pleasure to show them. Campers began arriving four days prior to the event. It is also a time for old friends to socialize and talk of the past.
Kevin Wilson said the weather was perfect for the day, but a few days before, they had rain, which did affect the ability of doing some of the harvest in the field. They had made up sheaths before and could show the crowd how the threshers worked.
All the equipment is in working condition, and during the winter months they start the machines up to ensure they keep running. At times, a part is needed, and this is when they contact others who have the equipment to see if they have the parts.
A new item this year was the purchase of a British American oil shed from the 1940s. It measurers 30 feet by 40 feet and is being used as a museum for the old oil and gas stuff. They also have a nice, original six-foot porcelain sign on display.
The kids were entertained with the antique hand-operated grain cleaner. Wilson said they had four to five bushels of grain, which went through the machine many times and kept the kids busy all afternoon.
The farm, located north of Manor, has bigger plans for next year when it celebrates the 10th edition on Aug. 30.
Wilson’s partner Marilee Simmons takes care of the posters and dragging equipment. She is a big part of the event, and she already has wheels in motion for next year.
“It is what we do,” said Wilson. “We love to fix up this old stuff to preserve the history, because who else is going to do it?”
A luncheon was provided by the Wawota Raise the Rafters group, and Al Flecher once again led the parade around the farmyard.
Don and Rod Lees had their McCormick tractors on display and had several in the parade.
“The older crowd loves to connect with the past,” said Wilson, “but it is great to see the younger crowd get involved, and some had no idea how this equipment worked and were blown away.”
Although the equipment is a reminder of the past, the Wilson’s Old Tyme Harvest serves as a gathering point for family, friends and farming enthusiast who come to share stories, memories, and a love for the land.
