Life on the farm the old-fashioned way was celebrated at the annual Triangle Harvest Festival Sept. 14. Participants either re-lived or enjoyed a few of the activities enjoyed long ago such as hay bale darts. Displays on threshing, blacksmithing and flour making occurred but the highlight was unquestionably the antique machinery parade. It is truly amazing how PTA members manage to get all the old machinery running. Breakfast, supper, many other activities, and a farmers’ market (both inside and outside the hall) also attracted visitors. The Harvest Festival is held to promote and celebrate the local pioneering life of the region. The Harvest Festival was held by the Pioneer Threshermans Association.
Shanel Jones, 5, of High Prairie proves that no effort is wasted during pool noodle croquet. Many children decided kicking the ball was easier and simpler!Martien Brand, left, and Jaco Dippenaar use pitchforks to feed the threshing machine during a display of the harvest from years ago. It was hard work and many long days in years since passed!Rebekah Strebchuk, of High Prairie, tests her skills (and luck!) in the hay bale dart competition. Each participant was allowed 10 throws to amass points for prizes.Kristie Gordon, co-owner of Shady Orchard and Winery, attended the Harvest Festival to promote and sell their award-winning products. They set up outside the hall, Inside, the hall was filled to capacity.Blacksmith expert Keith Batty, of Peace River, does his thing as interested children observe. The skill usually attracts adults but in this case, children also.The Kemp Honey Bee Train was a big hit with children, who couldn’t wait to climb in and ride around the grounds. Above, front to back, are Benjamin Rudkin, 6, and Maverick Rudkin, 4, of Salt Prairie.Many old carriages were on display for children to climb into and enjoy. Above, left-right, are brothers William Fleming, 4, and Michael Fleming, 3, of High Prairie.Pioneer Threshermans Association president Henry Nyberg took charge and drove one of the combines (an Allis Chalmers) during preparation before the antique machinery parade.
