Ardattin vintage rally celebrates 44 years

THE picturesque village of Ardattin came alive on Sunday 27 July when the South-Eastern Vintage Machinery Club hosted its 44th annual vintage rally and haymaking day, continuing a beloved tradition that has become a cornerstone of the local calendar.

This year’s event showcased over 200 vintage tractors and a similar number of classic cars to enthusiasts who travelled from all over the country, all in aid of Tullow Day Care Centre, which the show raised €8,000 for last year.

Sean Carroll, chairman of the club, talked about the impressive display of machinery that transformed local farmland into a living museum. “We wanted all makes of tractor, any make and any model so long as it was at least 30 years’ old,” he explained, adding that visitors were treated to a wonderful range of full-size and miniature steam engines alongside vintage farm equipment.

The rally offered something for every member of the family, with traditional haymaking demonstrations featuring both horses and vintage tractors working side by side. Visitors watched as steam engines chugged to life and were treated to threshing demonstrations, stone crushing and timber sawing ‒ providing a glimpse into agricultural life of a bygone era.

This year held special significance as organisers celebrated the Fordson E27N Major tractor, manufactured between 1945 and 1952. Eagle-eyed enthusiasts also spotted several Ford Model N tractors, beautiful machines dating from 1932 to 1944, displayed in various states of restoration.

“Sometimes you see some barn finds. There was one particular Morris Minor … it was in a shed for 30 years. So the person wouldn’t touch that; they’d leave it and just clean it off, leave it with its own look, but some like to spray them up like new,” Sean noted with enthusiasm for the hobby that brings together collectors who appreciate both pristine restorations and authentic patina.

The event’s community spirit shone through every aspect of the day. Staff from Tullow Day Care Centre kept exhibitors well fed with plenty of tea and sandwiches, while local farmers generously provided the land that makes the rally possible.

Beyond the machinery, families enjoyed browsing craft stalls and autojumble sales, while children delighted in the pets’ corner. The dog show provided its own moment of triumph when Max the Pomsky – already a semi-finalist in the Nose of Tralee pet competition – claimed first place in the small dogs category and runner-up overall, much to the joy of owners Ann and daughter Carol-Ann Fitzpatrick.

Chairman Sean was keen to express gratitude to everyone who made the day possible. 

“I want to thank local farmers whose land the event is held on, as well as the local community, from which the organisers received significant support, as well as, of course, the club committee members and their families,” he said, adding that the event wouldn’t be possible without all the enthusiastic exhibitors either.

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