DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (KFGO) – A Labor Day weekend tradition more than 70 years in the making will return to Rollag September 4-7 when the Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion brings vintage machinery, demonstrations and history to life.
The reunion began in 1940 when local threshermen, including the Nelson brothers, fired up an old Garr-Scott steam engine to thresh for family and friends. In 1954, the event was formally organized and opened to the public.
Today, the reunion covers 210 acres and attracts thousands of visitors and volunteers each year.
Ilene Osten, who works in administration for the reunion, said Steiger tractors are a featured exhibit this year. Visitors can also ride one of two trains operating each day during the reunion.
Main Street will feature a boutique with homemade items, the reunion’s famous caramel rolls and a mercantile. In the Pioneer Lady building, visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional skills, including rug making, quilting and wool dyeing.
Several historic buildings can be toured, including a school, church and house. There is also a working post office where visitors can mail a postcard and have it stamped at the historic post office.
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