Anyone curious about the history and technologies of agriculture will discover a treasury of working artifacts at Heritage Acres, at the eastern end of the Oldman River Reservoir.

Operated by the very active Old Man River Antique Equipment and Threshing Club, the museum includes an elegant working steam tractor, a functioning grain elevator and a rather terrifying steam-powered saw mill.

A stately red barn built by Doukobor settlers and rescued from drowning under the waters of the Oldman Reservoir shelters horses during the annual show event and a permanent collection of elaborately crafted models of farming equipment.

1880-1960

Each August long weekend, club members fire up old tractors and demonstrate century-old techniques for sawing boards and digging wells. Interior exhibits showcase hand-made quilts and crafts. A favorite recurring event is the test of drawbar power for vintage tractors and their masters.

Each show has a special theme detailed on the Heritage Acres website.Visitors may camp onsite, a great way to mix with generations of authentic farm and ranch folk.

Heritage Acres hosts a late June cook-out that replicates a pioneer meal of the 1880s. Beef roasted over and open fire is served with traditional trimmings from the back of a chuckwagon, much as it was during a wagon-train crossing of the prairies. Cowboy coffee and country music complete the menu. Again, check the Heritage Acres website for precise dates.