BIRD CITY – Instead of focusing on two shows a year, the Tri-State Antique Engine and Thresher Association has plans to open its grounds as a museum that is open five days a week this summer, with the addition of a new building to house some of a collector of rare farm equipment’s favorite pieces.

Kimel Brent, of Genoa, Colo., had been a member of the association for more than 50 years. Over the years, he had brought pieces of his collection to the association’s annual shows. Before he died, representatives of the association traveled to Genoa to view his entire collection, which occupied nine large farm buildings. The association is to receive a portion of the collection for display. A Hansen Foundation grant helped pay for a downpayment on the building.

The goal is to have the new building complete and have all equipment moved into place for a grand opening in early spring 2025. When the project is completed, the association will have the largest square footage inside museum space in the state.