72nd Annual Bird City Thresher Show to Feature National Rumbly Collectors Expo
- Kristina Hemel
- Jul 28
- 2 min read
BIRD CITY, KS — It’s almost time for one of Northwest Kansas’ most unique and beloved events—the Bird City Antique Engine and Thresher Show, celebrating its 72nd year from Thursday, July 31 through Saturday, August 2. Howard Raymond, longtime volunteer and enthusiast, joined Rollie Halligan last week on KLOE’s Good Neighbor Hour to share the excitement and history behind this incredible show.
🚜 A Living Celebration of Agricultural History
Started in 1953, the Bird City Thresher Show has grown into a nationally recognized event, attracting collectors, volunteers, and curious visitors from across the country. Raymond, who’s been involved for over a decade, said it all started when he offered to help prepare one of the many steam engines. “The next thing I knew, I was in deep,” he laughed.
The show now features 19 operational steam engines, more than 300 antique tractors, and specialty exhibits like a fully functional 1922 Holt self-propelled wooden combine, believed to be the only one still running in the U.S.
✨ Daily Parades, Demonstrations & Unique Exhibits
Each day kicks off with breakfast at 8 a.m. in the country kitchen, followed by a flag ceremony at 9, and a daily parade at 1:30 p.m. featuring steam engines, antique tractors, and classic farm equipment. And yes—steam engine rides are available to the public. “Just ask,” Raymond said. “Most operators are happy to give folks a ride.”
There’s also threshing demonstrations each day at 4 p.m., showcasing how farming was done before combines and modern machinery. “It’s a rare opportunity to see real pitchfork threshing in action,” said Raymond.
🛠️ Hosting the National Rumbly Collectors Expo
This year’s show has an even bigger draw: Bird City will host the 33rd National Rumbly Collectors Expo, with rare Rumbly tractors on display. These massive machines, known for their towering wheels and robust build, were manufactured in the early 1900s before being absorbed by Allis-Chalmers in the 1930s. “Some of these wheels stand nearly 8 feet tall,” Raymond noted. “They’re giants.”
🏛️ Museums, Memorabilia, and More
Visitors can also explore several on-site museums, including:
The Art Wilkins Building, packed with rare pedal tractors and collectibles
The Travel Museum, featuring items from around the world collected by tour guide Jim Leach
A sod house, one-room schoolhouse, steel-wheeled tractor exhibit, car museum, and more
🎟️ Admission & Info
The Bird City Thresher Show runs July 31–August 2 on the east side of Bird City, KS, and is open to all. Museum buildings are also open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., throughout the summer.
For more information, tune into KLOE’s Good Neighbor Hour or check out the NWKS Radio Area Events Calendar at nwksradio.net. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about the past, Bird City’s Thresher Show is a must-see slice of rural Americana.
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