KENT – Steam whistles, horns, clanging engine parts and pistons gyrating were all part of the atmosphere at the Spring Power Up at the Connecticut Antique Machinery Association (CAMA) grounds April 27 to 28.
The weather cooperated for the two-day event, with only a bit of rain on Sunday morning, which was a relief for the volunteers organizing the event. Last year’s rainy weather seemed to coincide with almost every event they hosted.
Children and adults were delighted to ride on Engine No. 5 for the train rides up and down the narrow gauge track.
CAMA board member Chris Destafano fielded questions from curious visitors about the large tractor he drove around the grounds. It was powered by 1912 Frick Eclipse engine that is 14 horsepower. He filled up the 100-gallon tank of water from a pump next to the sawmill building. It boils the water to a pressure of 100 psi and steam could be seen escaping from the top valve to release the pressure.
Exhibitors displayed their engines in the large field and vendors filled the areas under the trees with items available for purchase.
Inside each of the buildings, engines were whirring and chugging as visitors walked through looking at them.
CAMA is open for the season Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The next event on the schedule is June 8 with the Mining Museum’s mineral show with vendors and the Antique Tractor Pull.
