Rumely Expo '93, or... 'Boy, Did Ya See Them OilPulls!?'

A Rumely ensilage cutter and OilPull power unit completed the display around the tent, which was filled with an unimaginable array of Rumely memorabilia! A king's ransom of rare watch fobs, models, pins, catalogs and photographs brought back memories and tantalized the collectors.

That evening, 128 people packed Miller's Supper Club in Rushville to enjoy a delicious buffet supper and hear a fascinating trio of speakers. Jack Maple of Rushville shared memories of a visit to a Rumely dealership. What we all wouldn't give for the chance to travel back in a time machine, snatch up a bushel-basket of literature and momentos, order a couple of tractors and head back home! 

Dennis Rupert of Hillsdale, Michigan, reflected on growing up in a family surrounded by OilPulls. It's obviously done Dennis a lot of good! Too bad more of our kids aren't exposed to the values of our pioneer fathers instead of the lifestyles of the current hot ball-player or rock star.

Finally, Bill Rumely of New Palatine, Indiana, the great-great-grandson of Meinrad Rumely (founder of the M. Rumely Company), took a look at the Rumely family tree and told of recently discovering a love of the tractors that hold so dear a place in his roots. The highpoint of the evening came when the green and yellow Rumely Expo '93 banner was auctioned to the highest bidder. After a heated contest, it sold for $260.00 and left for its new home in, appropriately, LaPorte, Indiana.

All in all, everyone agreed it was a giant step towards bringing this grand old company into the spotlight already shining on some of its former competitors. Rumely Expo '94 is already scheduled for August 11-14 at the New York Steam Engine Show at Canandaigua, New York. The Rumely Expo series is presently promoted by a loose-knit steering committee, dedicated to pre-serving and promoting Rumely history through these Expos. If you plan to at-tend and bring a machine or exhibit, please contact Ron Miller, 12433 U.S. 6, Geneseo, Illinois 61254, phone 309-944-3156. More complete coverage, along with Expo videos and paraphernalia, is available through the host publication, Rumely Collector's News Magazine, % Scott Thompson, 12109 Mennonite Church Road, Tremont, Illinois 61568, 309-925-3932.