Texas Blacksmith Conference, Antique Gas Engine Reunion Planned Jan. 29-30
Plans for the first annual Texas Blacksmith Conference and the Hume L. Baker Texas Antique Gas Engine Reunion have been finalized. The events will be held Jan. 29-30 at the Texas Czech Heritage & Cultural Center (TCHCC) Village grounds in La Grange, beginning at 9 a.m. each day.
This is the first time that the Gas Engine Reunion will be held. There are many shows geared towards antique tractors, but none that are solely for the interest of the antique stationary engine collectors, until now. The farm shows in Texas have seen a decline in the past years in engine displays. This show is sure to help fuel-up the interest in this educational hobby. The show will feature gas, steam, hot air, and oil engines operating, and some powering equipment. The show is named in memory of long time engine collector and restorer Hume L Baker of Sheridan. Hume’s dedication to the mechanics of the restoration and eye for detail is known all over Texas’ antique farm shows. Before his passing in 2018, Mr. Baker, as he was known, dispersed of his 40+ collection to other collectors and enthusiasts, sharing the love of his hobby with so many to ensure its future. The South Texas Wheel Spinners & Crank Twisters (STWSCT) Club will be hosting this show.
The Blacksmith Conference had been held in College Station in the past, but it has come time to be revamped. The Texas Trio Group came together to revive this event and, like the engines, fire-up interest in this amazing art. They chose to come to La Grange and utilize the TCHCC Village, partnering with the STWSCT Club, for a new event that will definitely spark interest in all generations. Blacksmith demonstrations will take place both days, along with vendors and other pieces of interest. An iron smelt will also be burning all day Saturday and pulled at the conclusion of the event.
The TCHCC and Village will be open for touring. The Zapalac Saw Mill and the Czech Newspapers Museum will be in operation. Concessions will also be available. A live auction will take place just after noon on Saturday with special handmade blacksmith items to top the list. The proceeds generated from this event will benefit the future TCHCC Blacksmith Shop construction in the TCHCC Village. The Blacksmith Shop will be available for future generations to learn about a trade that was very important to the life of a community, and a farm, in the early days of Texas’ settlements. The Blacksmith Shop will be a working museum and events will be held in it throughout the year. There is no admission to the event.
TCHCC regular business hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Texas Czech Heritage & Cultural Center is located at 250 W. Fairgrounds Road on Hwy. 77 just north of La Grange.
In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved under the roofs of the Fayette County Fairgrounds.