By CINDY LADAGE
Illinois Correspondent

FT. MEADE, Fla. — For those who live in the frigid North, it is just about time again for the Florida Flywheelers Antique Engine Club’s annual Antique Engine & Tractor Show. The nonprofit organization, founded in 1972, is hosting its 17th show Feb. 25-28, featuring lawn and garden tractors this year.

The mission of the Flywheelers is “to promote interest in restoring, preserving and exhibiting antique internal combustion engines, steam engines, antique tractors and autos and other labor-saving devices from the bygone years.”

The group decided to purchase property in 1997 and the show has grown to almost 240 acres and includes a tractor pull track.

Membership is more than 1,500 – some from Florida, but many from far away. Beyond the show and amazing flea market, member buildings house displays, collections and many large engines, resulting in museums and even a village area through which visitors can meander.

Every show has its staple attendees and at the Florida Flywheelers, there are many who visit every year to see and renew acquaintances, or just to see what is new in the buildings. One such couple is Bill and Linda Eckhoff.

In 2008, visitors would have seen their beautiful “Waterloo Boy” or their unusual “Gypsy Wagon.” The Eckhoffs are collectors of primarily John Deere equipment. Bill developed his interest early, working on the farm. He then went into construction work.

In 1997, he retired and moved to Pontagorda, Fla., from Columbia, Mo. “After I retired, I wanted to move where the winters are warm,” he said. “I like to fish and boat. I had some tractors, but really started collecting things in 2001 when I came here to the Florida Flywheelers.”

His third year, he jumped on a chance to purchase the former Ford building where he could start a museum and have a place to permanently display his collection. For those who have visited the Eckhoffs in the past, it is worth another visit because the themes in the buildings have changed. In the Red Barn, along with tools is a neat Texaco truck, a Viele car and an old buggy, as well as a variety of miniature tractors built by Clint Russel.

The Eckhoffs are just two collectors who have settled in the area and are willing to share their toys, tractors and memorabilia with the public. The Florida Flywheelers are located at 7000 Avon Park Cutoff Road in Ft. Meade. Call 863-285-9121 or visit www.floridaflywheelers.org for details.