Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association 44th Swap & Sell Meet

About the Event

Step into a lively haven for antique machinery enthusiasts at the Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association 44th Swap & Sell Meet, where the air hums with the charm of restored engines and the nostalgia of classic tractors. Held on the club's welcoming grounds adjacent to the Jay County Fairgrounds in Portland, Indiana, from May 13-16, 2026, this four-day gathering is a treasure trove of buying, selling, and swapping antique engines, tractors, and every related part imaginable. What makes it special is the electric vibe of fellowship—collectors, restorers, and families mingling amid gleaming vintage finds, sharing stories of mechanical heritage under the spring Indiana sun. Attendees rave about discovering rare gems you won't find elsewhere, fueling passions for preservation while enjoying hearty food and a relaxed, community-driven atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. ## The Surrounding Area
Nestled in the heart of Jay County, Portland offers a quintessential slice of rural Indiana charm, with wide-open spaces and a friendly small-town spirit that welcomes visitors like old friends. Just west of the bustling Jay County Fairgrounds on Morton Street, the event grounds provide easy access to local gems like the captivating Jay County Museums, perfect for diving deeper into the region's rich farming history. Portland itself boasts cozy diners and family-owned spots for classic Hoosier fare, from tenderloin sandwiches to fresh pies. Nearby, explore scenic countryside drives, antique shops, and parks along the Salamonie River, making this corner of Indiana an ideal spot for a weekend getaway blending event excitement with peaceful Midwestern discovery. ## Activities & Attractions
This swap meet bursts with hands-on fun for every level of enthusiast. Browse hundreds of vendors offering antique engines, tractors, parts, and tools—everything from obscure bolts to complete restorations—in a massive trading post atmosphere where bargains abound. Hunt for that elusive piece to complete your collection amid stalls brimming with garden tractors, hit-and-miss engines, and tractor memorabilia. The highlight is the consignment auction on Saturday at 1:00 p.m., where treasures go under the hammer in spirited bidding. Food vendors serve up comforting meals right on the grounds, including hearty breakfasts to kick off your day, alongside lunches and snacks prepared by local service groups. Soak in the casual vibe of swapping stories with fellow aficionados, admiring displays of polished machinery, and perhaps even testing a find with a quick startup—pure joy for anyone who loves the rumble of history. ## Schedule & Logistics
The event kicks off Wednesday, May 13, and runs through Saturday, May 16, 2026, with gates typically opening around 8:00 a.m. daily for prime browsing time, wrapping up by late afternoon to let you ease into evening plans. Mark your calendar for the consignment auction on Saturday at 1:00 p.m., the can't-miss centerpiece of deals and discoveries. Ample free parking awaits on the expansive grounds, with convenient access off Morton Street. Admission is affordable and family-friendly, keeping more cash in your pocket for those must-have parts. Come prepared for a laid-back pace, dress comfortably for walking the vendor rows, and bring cash for the best swaps—it's all about that authentic, no-fuss tractor trader experience. ## History & Heritage
Since its early days, the Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association has been a cornerstone of preservation in east-central Indiana, fostering the collection, restoration, and exhibition of gas engines, tractors, and historical farm machinery. The Spring Swap & Sell Meet, now in its 44th year in 2026, evolved from the group's passion for keeping America's agricultural legacy alive, drawing from the same dedicated spirit that powers their massive annual show. Founded by local enthusiasts in the region spanning Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan—hence "Tri-State"—it has grown into a beloved tradition, mirroring the success of their fall and summer events at the Jay County Fairgrounds. This meet holds deep significance for Portland and Jay County, strengthening community bonds, supporting local service groups through food sales, and passing down mechanical know-how to new generations. It's more than an event—it's a living tribute to the hardworking machines that shaped the heartland.