a look back
Just a little THRESHEREE History
The Union Thresheree has deep roots here in Symco. From its humble beginnings to the large celebration it is today, each year adds another chapter to our story. These photos capture just a few of the moments, people, and machines that have made this tradition something truly special.
The Early Years
On August 6, 1967, a group of farmers and antique engine buffs met at the Lloyd Riske farm. Using Lloyd Young’s 25-40 Oil Pull and Harold Werth’s threshing machine, they held the first Union Thresheree.
In February of 1968, a meeting at Larry Werth’s home resulted in the organization of the Union Threshermen’s Club. The show that year was hosted by John P. Smith. In 1969 it was held on the Harold Werth farm.
Each year added new attractions to the show and the attendance grew.
In 1973, came the very first National Antique Tractor Pull Contest
The 8th annual Thresheree was moved to Symco in 1975, for a permanent location. The Union Thresheree is now one of Wisconsin’s largest shows!
Special Attractions
We have a unique display of old and new, from old town buildings, museum pieces, and learning opportunities!
Unionville Features:
- Church – School – Farmer’s Bank
- Fire & Police Station – Saloon – Tractor Repair Shop
- Barbershop – Post Office – Print Shop
- Blacksmith Shop – History House – General Store
- Shoe & Harness Shop – Sawmill – Welcome Barn
- Water-Powered Feed/Grist Mill
Demonstrations:
- Big Fairbanks Morse Engines – Combining Grains
- Engines Running – Threshing Grains
- Bailing – Rock Crushing – Shelling & Grinding
- Plowing – Sawing Logs & Shingles – Silo Filing
- Blacksmithing – Rug Weaving – Wool Spinning
- National Antique Tractor Pull
Weekend Activities:
- Quilt Display in the Church
- Wool Spinners all 3 Days in the Log Cabin
Displays:
- Antique Steam Engines – Gas Tractors – Gas Engines
- Oil Pulls – Old Log Houses – Old Farm Machinery
- Farm Machinery Museum
Shout out to our Sponsors!
We’re incredibly grateful to all our sponsors for helping make the Union Thresheree possible. Your generosity keeps Wisconsin’s agricultural heritage alive and brings the Thresheree to life for generations to enjoy.
