## Vintage Culture and Farm Heritage Flourish at Patrick Ranch Museum’s Country Faire
DURHAM, California – On a picturesque Saturday morning, the Patrick Ranch Museum hosted its 21st Annual Country Faire: Tractor Show & Pull, drawing enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Among the eager participants were Evan Noey, 13, and Michael Moss, 14, members of Vintage Iron Club Branch 136. Their passion for farm work and appreciation for its legacy radiated throughout the event.
### A Legacy Preserved: Young Farmhands Embody the Past
Noey and Moss skillfully demonstrated the art of baling hay, embodying the rich history of agriculture. “I enjoy it all,” said Moss, “because it’s rich in history.”
Since his childhood, Moss has actively participated in the faire’s threshing demonstrations, while this was Noey’s inaugural year. Together, they navigated the intricacies of the threshing machine, a device that separates grain from chaff, reaping the harvest of days gone by.
### Threshing: A Balancing Act of Skill and Caution
While Noey and Moss relished their tasks, they acknowledged the inherent risks associated with the heavy machinery. “You might not look like it,” said Moss, “but when you’re standing on that wagon or chucking the hay in, you can be scared…”
“To death,” added Noey. Asking questions and adhering to instructions ensures their safety amidst the thrilling experience.
### Tractor Time: A Symphony of Engineering Marvels
Harold Urness proudly showcased his meticulously restored 1948 Ford tractor. Originally purchased for $2,000, Urness invested countless hours and $5,500 into its pristine condition. Although no longer operational, the tractor serves as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of yesteryear.
Rod Hisken, another tractor enthusiast, offered tractor driving lessons to the eager attendees. His 1947 Farmall Cub tractor represented a pivotal era in agriculture, transitioning from animal power to mechanized farming.
### Sparks Fly at the Blacksmith Shop
Jasper Plank witnessed her boyfriend, Sam Rutherford, forge metal with precision and artistry at the Blacksmith Shop. Rutherford’s passion for the craft, honed over 12 years, was evident in the array of farm tools he created.
“He calls it a hobby, but he’s been doing it for 12 years,” remarked Plank. Among Rutherford’s creations was a heart pendant for Plank, a cherished token of their love.
Seth Alexander, another blacksmith, embraced the craft after receiving a forge as a gift. Unable to resist its allure, he began blacksmithing while caring for his newborn son. “It’s the funnest thing you will ever do,” said Alexander. “It’s something that’s historic and should be kept alive.”
### Preserving a Timeless Heritage
The Patrick Ranch Museum’s Country Faire serves as a vibrant celebration of rural history and culture. By engaging participants and showcasing vintage machinery, it fosters an appreciation for the ingenuity and hard work that shaped our agricultural past. The museum’s ongoing efforts to preserve this legacy ensure that future generations can delve into the tapestry of our rural heritage.