Spencer Steam Tractor, built in 1888 in Wayne County, Pa., has been rebuilt and restored. Its first public display is set for August 29 at the Wayne County Historical Society’s D& H Canal Park at Lock 31.

By Peter Becker
Tri-County Independent

Wayne County Historical Society's newly-restored Spencer Steam Tractor was on exhibit at D& H Canal Park at Lock 31, Saturday August 29, 2020.

This was the first public display of the historic tractor since a group of volunteers passionately worked to rebuild the artifact, over the past three years.

Fred Murray, the team leader, worked with Richard Robbins, Rod Warner, Frank Ward and Steve Weber on the project, which was set in motion largely with the efforts of Kim Erickson and Murray.

The volunteers shared the story of the tractor, built in Pleasant Mount in 1888 and its long and unusual journey to where it is today, as well as how they restored it from what was easily seen as a hopeless pile of ruin.

The day also included the first use of the newly built D& H Canal Park Pavilion, featuring a 'nice' yard sale and hotdogs and hamburgers for purchase.

The food was take-out only (no tables were provided for dining).

The pavilion, setup in the canal basin, will be available for rentals for picnics, meetings, etc. in the near future. The Society plans to erect a full-scale representation of a canal boat on top.

Proceeds from the yard sale and food sale will benefit the nonprofit Historical Society.

COVID-19 safety measures of wearing face masks and social distancing were required.

The public was welcomed to this free event. The Canal Park is located at 179 Texas/Palmyra Highway (Route 6), one mile west of Hawley.

For more information call the Society at 570-253-3240.