THREE RIVERS, Mich. — Farmers and agriculture enthusiasts will have a chance to take a cruise down farmlands of yore when the Antique Tractor and Engine Show returns for the 59th year next weekend, Aug. 3 to 4.

Hosted by the St. Joe Valley Old Engine Association, the event will be hosted at Boot Hill Ranch, on Bair Lake Street, 1.5 miles east of Jones in Three Rivers. Commercial camping is located next to the showgrounds. Food is available on the grounds. The gate opens at 9 a.m. Entry is $5 for adults. Children and members are admitted for free.

Guests will have the opportunity to visit a flea market, shop and trade for farm equipment and parts, and visit vendors selling collectables and crafts. Those interested in reserving a spot as a vendor should call Mary Shirk at (269) 278-4965 or (269) 506-5941. Setup fee is $15 for vendors, which includes primitive camping on the grounds.

The St. Joe Valley Old Engine Association was formed in 1960, and was originally named “Early Days Gas Engine & Tractor.” In 1972 the name was changed to St. Joe Valley Old Engine Association. The group’s mission is to remember and honor the history and encourage preservation of antique farm equipment, including lawn and garden tractors and implements, according to organizers.

At the August show, more than 130 tractors and stationary engines will be on display. The owners of the machinery will be in attendance to demonstrate and answer questions about their items. Organizers said it is an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of older farm equipment and farming methods, as well as appreciate the hard work that goes into agricultural production. There are also tractor parades, activities for children, equipment demonstrations and live music on Friday and Saturday afternoons.

Thursday, Aug. 1 is the 14th Annual Tractor Tour, a scenic tractor ride through the Cass and St. Joseph County countryside. Contact Terry Bowlby at (269) 445-7210 for more information. Bowlby also organizes the annual tractor drive across the Mackinac Bridge, which takes place in September. Contact him to learn more.

The Old Engine Association also has a large display of farm and garden tractors each year at the St. Joseph County Grange Fair in Centreville, Michigan. The fair this year is Sept. 15 to 21.

Membership is open to anyone interested. Participants do not have to be farmers or own farm equipment. Garden and orchard tractors and implement owners are welcome and encouraged to join the group.

For more information, visit the website, SJVOEA.org, or the group’s Facebook page.