News Summary
The National Construction Equipment Museum is set to host its International Convention and Old Equipment Exposition, organized by the Historical Construction Equipment Association. This family-friendly event will showcase interactive demonstrations of historic machinery, engaging visitors of all ages. Attendees can look forward to operating cranes, dozers, and a variety of vintage equipment while also enjoying educational activities and vendor offerings. The museum emphasizes preserving construction history and encouraging participation from younger generations, making this event a must-visit for enthusiasts and families alike.
Bowling Green, Ohio – The National Construction Equipment Museum is preparing to host its highly anticipated International Convention and Old Equipment Exposition from September 18-20, 2025. This unique event, organized by the Historical Construction Equipment Association (HCEA), promises attendees an engaging experience with working machinery and educational opportunities tailored for all ages.
Located just outside Bowling Green, the museum serves as a homage to the machinery that has contributed to America’s development. HCEA, a nonprofit organization founded in 1986, now boasts a global membership of approximately 3,500 to 4,000 individuals. Volunteers play a vital role in the museum’s operations, with about 15 dedicated local members, many of whom possess decades of experience in heavy machinery, contributing to the museum’s upkeep and event preparations.
This year’s exposition stands out due to its interactive nature, featuring operating equipment rather than merely static displays. Attendees will have the opportunity to observe cranes, shovels, dozers, and even a rock crusher driven by a steam engine in action. The showcased equipment includes historic pieces from over a century ago, such as horse-drawn road graders and early diesel dozers, highlighting the technological advancements in construction machinery over the years.
The museum’s collection regularly includes machines from the 1900s through the 1970s, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of construction technology. Past expositions have attracted participants from various countries including Sweden, Germany, England, and Australia, showcasing the event’s international appeal. The museum is committed to making the exposition family-friendly, incorporating activities like a sand pile featuring a crane and a kids’ gravel screening pit to entertain younger visitors.
Vendors will also be present at the exposition, offering model toys, vintage literature, and rare collectibles for purchase. Additionally, the museum encourages visitors to bring their own vintage machines for display or demonstration, fostering a community that values old equipment and its significance in construction history. In preparation for the event, volunteers dedicate their time to restoration projects, including the ongoing refurbishment of a 1920s Buckeye trencher that has the capability to dig depths of 12 to 15 feet.
All equipment exhibited in the museum is donated, requiring careful planning for transportation logistics, often involving a complex process. Prospective donations are evaluated by the museum’s acquisition committee to ensure they align with the organization’s mission of preservation and education. Due to the growing collection and space limitations, construction is currently underway on a new 200-by-100-foot steel building, which aims to enhance display organization and visitor engagement. The facility will feature a heated floor and improved educational materials to enrich the overall visitor experience.
The mission of the National Construction Equipment Museum places a strong emphasis on preserving historical equipment while also engaging younger generations about the significance of construction technology. Volunteers express a need for more young people to join their efforts, ensuring that the museum can continue its advocacy for the history of construction equipment.
As the countdown to the exposition continues, individuals interested in learning more about the HCEA and the upcoming event are encouraged to visit the association’s official website.
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