Fayette County is no longer the farming community it once was, but for the past 18 years on the third weekend of September the county’s agricultural past comes to the forefront with the annual Inman Farm Heritage Days.
The three-day event, held on Minter’s Farm in the south Fayette community of Inman, celebrates the way of life that was common in Inman and Fayette County in decades past.
The show, which opens Friday, Sept. 18 and continues through Sunday afternoon, Sept. 20, is free to both visitors and those who display antique farm equipment. It is best known for its large display of antique tractors, but there is much more to see, according to Stephanie Minter Adamek, who has taken over the day-to-day running of the event from her parents, Rick and Joanne Minter.
“The show has so many exhibits to see aside from tractors, antique engines and trucks. We have an antique sawmill, gristmill and even a threshing machine. There will be broom making, pea threshing, blacksmithing and printing on an old print press. Not everything is geared toward farming. Some of our other exhibitors will be making pottery in our very own kiln and, everyone’s favorite, the moonshine still will be in operation down in the creek.
“There’s a little something for everyone – beekeeping demonstrations,quilting, crafters and even face painting. Plus, if you make it out Saturday, we have pedal tractor races for kids 10 and under at 10:30 and 3:30. It’s just a fun time for the whole family.”
This year’s Heritage Days marks a new milestone as it’s the first to attract a major national collector’s group.
Inman Farm Heritage Days, along with the Pike County Old Tractor and Equipment Club will host the southeast gathering of the Early Days Gas Engine and Tractor Association.
“We appreciate the Pike County Old Tractor and Equipment Club’s help all these years and are excited to participate in hosting the EDGE&TA’s gathering. Their purpose is to preserve and restore equipment with historical value, and ours is in keeping the history of farming and the farming community around us alive. It’s a privilege to have their national recognition and gathering at this year’s show,’’ Adamek said.
Adamek, who has spent the last two months working on the family farm while also preparing the show’s souvenir program, t-shirts and buttons, said that while the show is a non-profit venture, it does have its rewards.
“There is no other feeling quite like driving over the top of the hill by the parking area and seeing the tents, tractors, exhibits, vendors and even some spectators all milling around Friday morning. The same feeling of awe happens every year and never lessens, even after 18 years. It’s amazing to know so many other people enjoy the show and bring back their families year after year. And we’re extremely blessed to have the support that it takes for this show to go on. This is what it’s all about, and I’m honored to be a part of it every year!”
For more information, visit mintersfarm.com, see Inman Farm Heritage Days on Facebook or call 770-461-2840.
