Tri-State Gas Engine and & Tractor Association 21st Swap & Sell Meet

Event Overview

The Tri-State Gas Engine & Tractor Association 21st Swap & Sell Meet is a prominent gathering for enthusiasts of antique engines, tractors, and related machinery, held annually at the club grounds adjacent to the Jay County Fairgrounds in Portland, Indiana. This event spans three days, from October 9th to 11th, 2025, and is organized to promote the preservation and exhibition of historic agricultural equipment. The event features a swap and sell meet, consignment auctions, food services on-site (including breakfast), and a participatory, community-driven atmosphere. Admission is charged.

Area Surrounding the Event

Portland, Indiana, located in Jay County in the eastern region of the state, offers a quaint, rural backdrop for the event. The fairgrounds area is accessible via Morton Street on the west side, providing ample parking and easy access for attendees. Portland is known for its agricultural heritage, supportive local community, and proximity to regional attractions like the Jay County Historical Society and local museums, which complement the event’s theme. The surrounding area is dotted with countryside landscapes, small-town businesses, and eateries, catering to both out-of-town visitors and locals.

Vibe of the Event

The event exudes a nostalgic, family-friendly, and passionate vibe, bringing together collectors, history buffs, and families. It’s a hands-on, interactive experience where attendees can admire rare machinery, meet fellow enthusiasts, and share stories. The atmosphere is friendly and educational, with a strong sense of community and preservation. Food served on the grounds adds to the relaxed, festival-like environment, making it enjoyable for all ages.

Event Activities

• Swap & Sell Meet: Vendors and attendees buy, sell, and trade antique engines, tractors, and related parts. This is the main attraction, with rows of antique machinery, tools, and memorabilia.
• Consignment Auction: Held on Saturday, this auction offers a variety of items, often including rare engines and tractors.
• Static Displays: Antique gas engines, steam tractors, and historic farm machinery are on display throughout the event.
• Demonstrations: Scheduled demonstrations of vintage tractors and engines in operation.
• Educational Opportunities: Talks, Q&A sessions, and informal discussions about restoration techniques and historical significance.
• Food Service: Breakfast and other meals are available on-site, catering to visitors spending the whole day.
• Community Socials: Evening gatherings and opportunities for networking and sharing restoration stories.

Rough Daily Schedule

Thursday, October 9

• 8:00 am – 5:00 pm: Swap & Sell Meet opens, vendor setup, and early bird shopping.
• All Day: Static displays, informal demonstrations.
• On-site food service begins for breakfast and continues throughout the day.

Friday, October 10

• 8:00 am – 5:00 pm: Swap & Sell Meet continues, demonstrations, and educational sessions.
• All Day: Static displays, vendor booths open.
• Food service available.

Saturday, October 11

• 8:00 am – 1:00 pm: Swap & Sell Meet, displays, and demonstrations.
• 1:00 pm: Consignment auction at a designated area on the grounds.
• Afternoon: Networking, final rounds of demonstrations, and vendor pack-up.
• Food service available throughout the day.

Event Locations

• Main Grounds: Swap & Sell Meet, static displays, demonstrations, and food service all take place in the open grounds adjacent to the Jay County Fairgrounds, west side of Morton Street.
• Auction Area: The consignment auction is held in a central location on the grounds, easily accessible to attendees.
• Demonstration Zones: Designated areas for running engines and tractors, often near the main display rows.

History and Founding

The Tri-State Gas Engine & Tractor Association was established to foster the collection, restoration, preservation, and exhibition of gas engines, steam tractors, and related equipment of historical significance. Over the years, the association has grown, with its annual Swap & Sell Meet becoming a regional highlight for antique machinery enthusiasts. The event’s roots trace back to the broader national movement of preserving agricultural heritage, with the Portland location becoming a hub thanks to its central Midwest location and enthusiastic local community. While the Swap & Sell Meet specifically is now in its 21st year, the association itself has a much longer history, dating back several decades, and is part of a larger tradition of similar gatherings across the United States.

Summary Table

Activity	Description	Location	Time/Day
Swap & Sell Meet	Buy, sell, trade antique engines, tractors	Main grounds	Thu–Sat, 8am–5pm
Consignment Auction	Auction of engines, tractors, parts	Central auction area	Sat, 1pm
Static Displays	View antique machinery and tractors	Main display rows	All days
Demonstrations	Live operation of vintage equipment	Demonstration zones	Scheduled, all days
Food Service	Breakfast and meals available	On-site concession area	All days
Educational Sessions	Talks, Q&A, restoration discussions	Designated tent/area	Scheduled, all days

This event is a must-visit for anyone interested in agricultural history, antique machinery, or a taste of Midwestern community spirit, set against the picturesque backdrop of rural Indiana.