Labor Day Hesston,IN show

Does anyone know why the engine exhibitors have diminished so much at this show? I grew up attending this show as a kid and still try to get back there every couple of years since I live in OHIO now. They have 3 gauges of steam trains there which I enjoyed as a kid and hope to share with my kids. They had an area for the engines called Gasoline Alley which used to stay pretty full but over the years it has almost dwindled down to nothing. I heard rumours of trouble between local steam and gas members but nothing in particular. I was always treated well and never had any problems myself. I especially appreciated the exhibitor cookout after hours. I am trying to get off to go this year and am hoping the attendance will recover.

Hey bro,

Other than the supposed steam vs. gas battle, I'd say there are 3 other forces at play.

1. Lack of advertising. 2. The big tractor and engine auction in New Paris that weekend 3. Perhaps, the fact that the Michigan Flywheelers show the next weekend is so big, it takes away participation that weekend.

Maybe holidays aren't the best time to hold a show either??

It sure is depressing to see how the show has suffered. I think there were less than 5 engines last year. We played on the trains awhile and left.

Perhaps you could lead its resurgence?