It is a non-profit, incorporated organization, which started with thirteen members and now has grown to over 350 family memberships. Members share a common interest inrestoring engines, tractors, and related equipment from the turn of the century. Many old pieces of farm equipment have been rescued from the junk pile, only to appear in one of our shows restored to its original condition. In most cases, the restoration is made difficult by years of rust and neglect. Often, parts must be located or made and many hours of careful work are necessary before the final coat of paint is dry.
Some members remember using steel wheeled tractors to plow a field or run a threshing machine.
Others recall using a stationary engine to grind corn, pump water or power a buzz saw. The old Maytag gas engine washing machine was fired up every Monday morning for wash day and some remember helping Mom keep it running until the job was done. A family oriented organization, the Arizona Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association plans activities for all ages. We want to preserve some of our heritage by passing the interest down to the younger generations. Antique tractors are pulled for percentage and some classics are pulled for exhibition.