Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
GLENCOE – On February 22, despite the chill and heavy snowfall, the Glencoe Agricultural Hall was buzzing with warmth and excitement as the community gathered for the annual Farm Toy Show. This well-loved event exclusively featured an array of collectible toy tractors and farm equipment, attracting families and collectors eager to view and purchase these unique items.
Stephen R. Campbell, one of the event organizers, shared insights into the origins and collaborative spirit behind the show. “Originally, my friend Cody Wolfe and myself were at this Glencoe Toy Show together several years ago, and he has a collection of tractors. I have a collection of tractors as well. We both do different types of vending, so we’re at different shows together, and we thought, let’s bring a show to Melbourne. So, we have a Melbourne show now,” Campbell explained.
While the Glencoe event continues to draw crowds, Campbell and Wolfe are also gearing up for the Melbourne Tractor Fest, scheduled for June 21. This upcoming event promises to offer more than just toy displays, featuring full-sized tractors and a variety of agricultural showcases. “Yeah, real tractors, and a full toy show again,” confirmed Campbell.
The Melbourne event will also introduce exciting new competitions. “We added 4-cylinder pullers from Aylmer, and we’ve added the outlaw lawn mower racers out of Sarnia. Two new events. And we do a full tractor parade that we’ve always done at Melbourne as well,” said Campbell, highlighting the expanded scope of the event.
The dedication of the organizers to continue and grow these events underscores their importance to the local community’s cultural and social calendar. The Glencoe Toy Show is a cherished local tradition, and with the additional attractions at the Melbourne Tractor Fest, the spirit of community and celebration of agricultural heritage are set to reach new heights.
As preparations for the Melbourne Tractor Fest continue, the excitement within the community is palpable. Both events not only celebrate agricultural history and foster community spirit but also connect generations through the shared love of tractors, whether toy-sized or full-scale.
