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Our History |
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In 1995, Six tractor enthusiasts felt there was a need
to preserve agricultural heritage in this area. The growth of local cities
and towns is noticeably evident here, as more and more farmland is lost to
Urban Development. Second and third generation of farmers are retiring and
their children are working at jobs other than agriculture.
Those who remain in the business of farming must use
the most modern practices and equipment to survive. As a result, old
techniques are becoming extinct and equipment obsolete and in danger of
being lost forever. Old equipment is often scrapped, sold at auctions or
occasionally kept for sentimental reasons in the backyard to rot over time
until it is beyond the possibility of restoration. The low exchange value of
our dollar greatly accelerated sales to the United States and it is a common
sight to see a highway tractor pulling a load of antique tractors and
equipment destined for dealers and collectors south of the border.
Although we know that we cannot stop this process,
we feel that there is a need to provide and alternative solution whereby
some of this machinery can be restored and preserved as part of our
agricultural heritage in a future museum in Port Hope.
The club was formed in the fall of 1995 and much
thought was given to its name to reflect our mission and objectives.
HOPE - Our founding members are all from Hope
Township. All our meetings, fund raising events, our annual show and
township support are here.
AGRICULATURAL - The focus of our club is
agricultural machinery and equipment; its restoration and preservation. The
club, however, appreciates to have received such antique items as lawn
mower, chainsaws and tools.
HERITAGE – This is what we want to preserve. Old
farming techniques, machinery and the skills to operate and maintain them
properly, will be lost if not properly recorded.
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