For 20 years, friends have gathered at Kim O’Neil’s home, just north of Wallaceburg, to pay tribute to a bygone era of rural life.
The Mini Farm show held at O’Neil’s Stewart Line property highlights the hard work and ingenuity of farmers from years past.
“Looking at some of the displays, you just have to tip your hat to those who came before us,” he said. “They built a country through sweat, muscle, and brains.”
The one-day event attracts approximately 800 visitors each year from across Southwestern Ontario.
This year’s show featured more than 40 tractors, various pieces of agricultural equipment dating back more than a century, entertainment, and games for children.
O’Neil said he loves the excited faces of the children and the rekindling of friendships between generations of parents and grandparents.
“When people get together who haven’t seen each other in a few years, it brings a smile to everyone’s face. It’s a great time for families to catch up,” he said.
The event is free, but food donations to St. Vincent De Paul were accepted.
One of the highlights was the homemade bean soup cooked in a kettle over a wood fire by Kim’s wife, Carol, and her friends. Cups of the steaming soup were provided free of charge to anyone who wanted them.
Various vendors, craftsmen, and artisans were also on hand to show how they create their crafts.
Kim’s collections of antique toys, Christmas displays, buggies, and household items were very popular.
“It wasn’t all just work for farmers or those in rural communities,” he said. “They knew how to have fun and make life special.”
