Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1542573
If a poll were to be taken of the subscribers of this publication as to the location of Penfield, Ill., chances are the majority would not be able to point it out on a map. If the same poll on the whereabouts of Penfield were to be given to the people who live in the state of Illinois, again, most would not have any idea where to find it. Located in the northeastern part of Champaign county, east of Rantoul, Ill., and just south of llinois Route 136, you will find the small, quiet, rural community of Penfield, where around 150 folks reside. The state of Illinois classifies Penfield as an "unincorporated census-designated place" in Compromise Township. So, the question arises: Why would anyone choose this place to host the first Gathering of the Orange of 2026? The simple answer is it's the home to the I&I Antique Tractor and Gas Engine Club. This is the group that puts on the largest working outdoor farm show every other year on the former Rantoul National Aviation Center Grounds. Penfield is their "every year" home show. The I&I Antique Tractor and Gas Engine Club was formed in 1976. After years of displaying at several different locations, the club got the chance to purchase property on the northeast edge of Penfield, the location of the now-unoccupied Penfield Grade School. In 2003, through the hard work of volunteers, the grade school was converted into a museum. Housed within the classrooms and gym is one of the best collections of antique farm machinery, farm hand tools, household furnishings, appliances and several pieces of horse- and tractor-drawn equipment. Annually, during the second week of July, the I&I Historic Farm Days attracts hundreds of visitors to the small community, and this year, they will feature Allis-Chalmers and the GOTO. While each Gathering is unique in its own way, the 2026 Penfield show is extra special: Not only is it the 250th anniversary of the U.S., it is also the 150th anniversary of the town of Penfield and the 50th anniversary of the I&I Antique Tractor and Gas Engine Club, so visitors can expect several added attractions. Penfield offers a large area for primitive camping but no motels. However, it is just a 20-minute drive from the Champaign-Urbana area, which can fulfill lodging needs and offers a multitude of dining choices. For those with mobility issues, golf carts are available to rent, or you can bring your own. Gates will open at 7 a.m. each day, with a $10 per person daily entry pass or a $25 multi-day pass. Children 10 and under enter for free. Several Allis-Chalmers clubs will be on hand to greet you in the feature building. The Triple A Tractor Club will host the Gathering of the Orange banquet Friday, July 10, on the I&I Tractor Club grounds in Penfield, Ill. The meal will be served in the museum cafeteria. The cost of the meal will be $30 per person. Seating will be limited. Send a check, along with names and number of people attending, to Chuck and Jodi Whitaker, 23 County Road 500 North, Sigel, IL 62462. The deadline to register is June 1. Speakers are being arranged, and there will be a small auction, with proceeds going to a local charity. So, make plans to attend this big event in the small town of Penfield, Ill. You can find all event information and more at www.historicfarmdays.com Where in the world is Penfield, Ill.? By Chuck Whitaker, Triple A Tractor Club 7 OLD ALLIS NEWS