MIDALE – The Souris Valley Antique Association's annual Pioneer Echoes Weekend once again served as an opportunity to celebrate history and community.
Numerous activities were held in the town's heritage village Aug. 2 and 3. Committee member Glenn McGregor estimates they had 700-800 people attend the different activities.
"We had a pretty good crowd both days, and we were happy with that," McGregor said in an interview with SaskToday.
The buildings within the heritage village were open both days. A new building in the area recognizes one of their volunteers, Garry Hughes, who used to own a TV and radio repair shop.
"We got him a building, and he set up his old shop and they're all on display. It looks really good in there," said McGregor.
He hopes some additional buildings – including a barber shop, a harness shed, a cook car and a fire hall – will be ready for next year. The association is looking for items to be donated for the barber's building.
A parade was also held both days, and McGregor said it went flawlessly. He believes they had more antique tractors than ever had before with 50-60 involved both days. Other entries also participated. The Soo Line Cruisers came out with classic vehicles that were part of the Classy Car Show on Main Street on Aug. 3.
Threshing demonstrations followed the parade.
"The threshing went pretty well," he said. "There were no hiccups this year, which is good, and the threshing machine was working about as good as it's ever worked for us, which is a plus as well."
Wire-tie bailing demonstrations were also back for this year.
He hopes next year's Pioneer Echoes can be bigger for the 60th edition. In addition to the new buildings, the committee has already started to discuss plans for next year.
"We have a few little ideas planned to bring more people in and entertain our communities," he said.
Other highlights from the weekend included pancake breakfasts on Main Street on Aug. 2 and 3; the Midale Bull Bash Aug. 1 and various rodeo activities the following two days; the premiere showings of the new Mainprize documentary, celebrating the life and legacy of beloved Midale physician Dr. William Graham Mainprize on Aug. 2 and 3 at the Midale Central School; the car show on Aug. 3 on Main Street; and a barbecued lunch fundraiser, also on Main Street, on Aug. 3 to support a new pool for the town.
McGregor thanked the community and those who travelled to Midale for the weekend.
