Ohio lies in a unique position within the United States, with part of the state situated in the Mid-West and the southeastern portion of the state located in the Appalachian region.

Both regions share a rich agricultural history dependent on farming. To celebrate that history for the last 16 years the City of Ironton has been home to the Ironmasters Days. The two-day event showcases a variety of antique tractors, engines and farm equipment.

Many of the antiques remain in their original state and in working order, like the 1917 Delco engine. The nearly 100-year-old engine on display, by Glenn Richardson and Billy Gene Cooper, was supplying power to two animatronic characters that were performing tasks typical of the time period.

“It’s a 32-volt engine and right now it’s using about 1,100 rpms,” Richardson said. “At the time these engines would be used as generators. Right now we are using them to power the characters that are sawing wood and churning butter. It’s also sending power to our light bulb.”

Don Mootz, who helped organize the event, had some pieces on display that tied directly to the State of Ohio and the city. A corn planter of unknown age displayed the insignia of Victor Hardware, an Ironton store that was destroyed in 1937.

“I’m not sure how old the planter is,” Mootz said. “But, you know if the flood destroyed that hardware store in 1937 that it has to be older than that. It’s been a long time since people have seen or heard anything about Victor Hardware.”

Along with the engines and equipment, several tractors from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as a 1927 Ford Model T, were on display. The event also featured a parade of the farm equipment through town and other activities for children.

“You’d be surprised at how much kids enjoy this stuff,” Richardson said. “They love to learn about how things used to be and how different they are now. Today, things can get made a lot faster and easier, but the craftsmanship isn’t near as good as it used to be.”