Bowling Green, Ohio, August 25, 2025
News Summary
The National Construction Equipment Museum in Bowling Green, Ohio, will hold its annual International Convention and Old Equipment Exposition, showcasing operating machinery and historical artifacts. Attendees can enjoy an interactive experience with vintage equipment, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to display their own machines. The event will attract thousands of members from around the world, enhancing community involvement and education about construction technology’s evolution.
Bowling Green Set to Host International Convention and Old Equipment Exposition
The National Construction Equipment Museum, located just outside Bowling Green, Ohio, is set to host its annual International Convention and Old Equipment Exposition from September 18-20, 2025. This unique event will showcase operating machinery, offering visitors an interactive experience that distinguishes it from typical museum exhibitions, which often feature only static displays.
Approximately 3,500 to 4,000 members from the Historical Construction Equipment Association (HCEA), which has been operating the museum since its founding in 1986, will gather for the exposition, drawing attendees not only from the local area but also from as far away as Sweden, Germany, England, and Australia. The museum is managed with the help of 15 dedicated local volunteers, many of whom possess decades of experience in construction machinery.
Exciting Display of Vintage Equipment
Visitors can anticipate a diverse array of operating equipment features. Displayed machinery will include cranes, shovels, dozers, and even a rock crusher powered by a steam engine. Some pieces date back over a century, highlighting the evolution of construction technology, with notable items such as horse-drawn road graders and early diesel dozers. The museum regularly features machines from the 1900s through the 1970s, appealing to enthusiasts and families alike.
The exposition includes family-friendly attractions, such as a sand pile with a crane and a kids’ gravel screening pit, designed to engage younger visitors in a fun and educational way. Vendors will also be on-site, selling model toys, vintage literature, and rare collectibles, further enhancing the overall experience.
Community Involvement and Facility Improvements
To encourage participation, the museum welcomes visitors to bring their own vintage machines for display or operation during the event, fostering a sense of community and sharing of knowledge. Volunteers are committed to maintaining the museum’s collection, meeting weekly for various restoration projects. One of the significant current projects is restoring a 1920s Buckeye trencher capable of digging depths of 12 to 15 feet.
All the equipment on display is generously donated, with acquisition decisions made by a committee to ensure that they align with the museum’s mission of preservation and education. Currently, the museum is seeing construction progress on a new 200-by-100-foot steel building, which will enhance display and organization. This building will include features such as a heated floor and improved viewing and educational materials aimed at enriching the visitor experience.
The Museum’s Mission
The HCEA continues to grow globally, reflecting a robust commitment to preserving the history of construction equipment. The organization’s mission heavily emphasizes education and engaging younger generations, aiming to attract more young people to participate in the museum’s activities. Current initiatives focus on inspiring the next generation to appreciate the historical significance and advancements in construction machinery.
For anyone interested in learning more about the HCEA and the upcoming exposition in 2025, information can be accessed through their official website.
FAQ
What is the National Construction Equipment Museum?
The National Construction Equipment Museum, located near Bowling Green, Ohio, showcases machinery that has contributed to America’s development.
When is the International Convention and Old Equipment Exposition taking place?
The event is scheduled for September 18-20, 2025.
What types of equipment can attendees expect to see at the exposition?
The exposition features operating cranes, shovels, dozers, and historical items like horse-drawn road graders and early diesel dozers.
Is the event suitable for families?
Yes, the event is family-friendly, with activities for children, including a sand pile with a crane and a kids’ gravel screening pit.
Can individuals bring their own vintage machines to display?
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their vintage machines for display or operation during the event.
What is the museum’s mission?
The museum’s mission is focused on the preservation of construction equipment history and educating younger generations about its significance.
Key Features of the Exposition
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date | September 18-20, 2025 |
| Location | National Construction Equipment Museum, Bowling Green, Ohio |
| Operating Equipment | Cranes, shovels, dozers, rock crushers, and more |
| Historical Equipment | Machines from 1900s to 1970s, including horse-drawn graders |
| Family Activities | Crane sand pile and kids’ gravel screening pit |
| Volunteer Opportunities | Weekly volunteer restoration projects |
| New Facility | 200-by-100-foot steel building under construction |
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Additional Resources
- Ohio Country Journal
- For Construction Pros
- Construction Equipment
- MSN News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction Equipment
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