The Chateauguay Valley Antique Association (CVAA) is making a significant return for the 2025 edition of its annual antique exhibition and tractor pull. After unforeseen circumstances, the event will return to the Huntingdon Fairgrounds for its 38th year, set to take place on August 23-24.
Founded in 1986, the CVAA’s first exhibition was held at the Huntingdon Fairgrounds as part of the Huntingdon Fair. The following year, the show was relocated to the late Leslie Rennie’s farm in Rockburn, where it has been held every year since. Rennie, a passionate collector of antiques and historic buildings, contributed three notable structures to the event: Black’s Church, a 1829 Protestant church from Hinchinbrooke; a log cabin believed to be the first homestead in Rockburn; and the J.C. Cook General Store, originally built around 1825. These historic buildings will remain at Rennie’s farm, but the remainder of the exhibition, including antique cars, tractors, engines, toys, and the ever-popular tractor pull, will move to the fairgrounds.
Despite this change in venue, the CVAA board is committed to maintaining the tradition of this well-regarded event. Judith Maither, a founding member and current president, emphasized the board’s resolve to keep the exhibition alive. “We are not ready to quit,” Maither said, acknowledging the emotional ties the board has to the Rennie farm. “It is an educational show, but it’s also an opportunity for people to reconnect with one another, which is something very special.”
Maither, who has never missed an event, recalls even bringing her newborn daughter to the show after a hospital visit in its early years. Her daughter, Lyndsay Maither, who now serves on the CVAA board, has fond memories of the event from her childhood and is proud to see the exhibition continue to thrive.
“It’s like an old-time country fair,” said Pearl Fennell, another founding member. “It’s a gathering place for the community,” with many attendees returning each year or planning their vacations around the event.
In the months leading up to the show, around 20-30 volunteers gather to prepare displays that highlight the rich history of the region. Board member John Wilson described the community spirit that builds throughout this process. “You are actually touching history,” he said, emphasizing the significance of preserving and sharing the area’s heritage.
While the exact layout of the exhibits at the fairgrounds is yet to be determined, the CVAA has assured attendees that many items from the collection will be on display as part of the event’s long-standing tradition. Live demonstrations, such as grain threshing, may also continue, thanks to the efforts of dedicated members like René Labelle, who first became attracted to the show by its historical demonstrations.
The CVAA’s return to the Huntingdon Fairgrounds was welcomed by Glen Moore, president of the Huntingdon Agricultural Society and CVAA member. The fairgrounds offer ideal facilities, with several historic barns, ample grounds, and a track and grandstands perfect for the tractor pull.
In addition to preserving its historical roots, the CVAA aims to maintain its commitment to community support. Over the years, a portion of the event’s profits has been donated to local clubs, schools, and businesses, and the association plans to continue this tradition of giving back.
As the association embarks on this new chapter at the fairgrounds, it is seeking new members and volunteers to help ensure the continued success of the exhibition. The 38th edition of the antique exhibition and tractor pull will take place on August 23-24, 2025, marking another milestone for the cherished event in the Chateauguay Valley’s history.
