Tired Iron of the Ozarks readying for spring show

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

— Repairing well-worn agricultural equipment is nothing new to members of the Tired Iron of the Ozarks antique engine and tractor club. However, some of the group came together last week to mend broken water pipes instead of rebuilding a John Deere transmission.

The club, located at 13344 Taylor Orchard Road in Gentry, has been in existence since 1992 but moved to its current location in 2002. Along the way, former chicken houses and other outbuildings have been converted into storage and display sheds for various antique tractors, engines and farm implements.

“There are about 160 members, and many of us get together in the winter or early spring to start getting the area ready for the show and swap meet,” said Larry Morrison, a former president of the club and current newsletter editor.

“Our next show is April 16-18, and we are here today fixing some broken water lines in the restrooms,” he said.

Frigid temperatures earlier this winter, combined with the failure of a space heater, caused some unprotected water lines in the restrooms to break.

Several club members have spent the last week repairing the lines and making other adjustments to avoid another watery mess next year. In addition to running new water lines, a new tin ceiling and insulation are being added to the restrooms.

“Just about everything you see on the grounds here were built by the club,” Morrison said. “We also have to keep things running after they break. It’s constantly a work-inprogress, but it gives us a chance to get together and work toward a common goal.”

A painted mural depicting club members and their equipment is planned for completion this spring in time for the show.

Fore more information about the group or the upcoming show and swap meet, call Glenn Smith, club president, at 736-2841 or visit www.tiredironoftheozarks.org.

Area, Pages 8 on 03/03/2010