Erickson family big part of reunion

PONTIAC – Members of the Erickson family from Odell have been a part of the Threshermen’s Reunion since the show started years ago.

Chris Erickson is the fourth generation to carry on the tradition of proudly displaying steam engines at the second oldest farm show in the country. Erickson’s grandfather Art was a founding member of the event and Erickson’s father Jim remains an active part of the show.

Erickson and his father bought their 1917 Wood Brothers steam engine back in 2004 from Montgomery, Minnesota. The 18 horsepower machine is one of only 28 surviving Wood Brothers models.

“Wood Brothers made separators and other implements,” Erickson explained. “They got into the steam engine business kind of late.”

The Erickson family owns five steam engines along with several tractors. They hold the important role of sounding the whistle each year to signify the start of the Threshermen’s Parade through downtown Pontiac.

“We all grew up on them,” adds Jim.

According to Erickson, the Threshermen’s Reunion is just as much about the people as it is the machines. He looks forward to the reunion each year and enjoys visiting with attendees.

“The machines bring the people together and I enjoy that.”

Chris and Jim could be seen cruising across Threshermen’s Park Thursday morning after the opening ceremonies. The reunion runs through Monday and is open to the public.