Miles, IA – The Great River Threshers of Miles are preparing for their 50th year celebration by undertaking a large documentary project to meet their mission: Bring Iowa’s agricultural history to life through real-life demonstrations and hands-on learning of the pioneer era. Members are currently fundraising to be able to document each historic machine in action while our experienced members share their knowledge on camera. These demonstrations, from the rhythmic work of the threshing machine to the precise operations of our rare Frick Eclipse steam engine, will be preserved for future generations to study and enjoy. There will be custom-built display stations throughout our grounds. Each station will feature professionally designed boards that offer visitors a brief introduction to each piece of equipment, along with QR codes that unlock detailed video demonstrations and historical information. This project will allow the Thresher Grounds to be a year-round educational destination.
The Great River Thresher Grounds features the 1888 Elk River #3 one-room schoolhouse that has hosted classrooms of students for over 25 years along with a variety of individuals and activities during our annual weekend celebration in July. Visitors can view a working blacksmith shop, a working sawmill, a 5-hitch horse-powered machine under a protective roof, shingle making, and so much more. Another part of our project is to get the Frick Eclipse steam engine, rare to the Midwest, up and running for documentation.
The Thresher members are currently writing grants to help obtain some funding to help with this documentation project as well as holding some fundraising events this month. The next fundraiser planned is an Applebee s event. Anyone dining at the Clinton Applebee s on Wednesday, April 9 can mention the Great River Threshers fundraising event and Applebee s will contribute 25% of the order to our project. The Threshers will also be having a BBQ Fundraiser on Saturday, April 12. The community can preorder pulled pork, briskets, and a rack of ribs along with a variety of sides. Those who don t pre-order can support the fundraiser at the Food Truck which will be open from 11-3:00 at PMC Feed Store in Miles on April 12. Those wishing to place a pre-order need to call 563-357-0453 or 563-357-6937 by April 6.
If you would like to make a donation as an individual or through a group, it would be most appreciated. Some families may wish to make a donation in memory of or honor of a loved one. All donations will help us preserve the agricultural machinery in use during pioneer times while learning about Eastern Iowa s agricultural history for future years. Donations can be sent to Great River Threshers, 1093 390th Ave, Miles, IA 52064. If you have any questions, feel free to contact a Thresher member or call 563-212-6044.
Frick Eclipse steam engine.
example of machinery to be documented.
1888 one-room schoolhouse on the grounds which has received a facelift the last 3 years.
