THE CliShay PROJECT
CHAPTER 7
The arrangements have been made to bring the original CliShay home. A member of Cinder Sniffers made an offer to the estate of Darrel Brehm which was accepted. Funds were in the process of being transferred and a date was agreed upon to pick up the Original CliShay and a partially completed model as well.
A meeting was called for at Ford’s Garage in Norwood, Ohio to finalize plans for the 3 day trip.
Spouses met with Dave and Don to make sure we didn’t need directions to Pratt, KS
So off we go in a cargo van with plans to make it to Ottowa, KS by dark. We left early enough and had plenty of time to make the 650 mile trip. With 2 capable drivers switching every 3 hours or so, it should easily be within reason. The van had low miles and new tires. What could go wrong? (Spoiler alert NOTHING!)
There was some urgency to make the trip. We learned the contents of the farm were to be auctioned on the upcoming Saturday.
We made it to the Ottowa Comfort Inn on schedule and crashed for the night.
The next morning we headed for Pratt. The 3 ½ hour drive didn’t seem daunting. Somehow we managed to resist the temptation to visit 3 of the nearby landmarks. The worlds largest ball of twine, the worlds largest hand dug well and the B 29 museum. One attraction was worthwhile, the other 2 not so much. The ball of twine speaks for itself and largest hand dug well had some use, but the B 29 museum is a part of our history. WWII crews were trained on the B 29 in Pratt. Much of the original airfield is now cattle holding pens. Who knew!?
The GPS didn’t fail us as we saw a sign directing us to the Pratt farm.
The CliShay’s final homecoming getting close, and the CliShay Fest is getting closer as well. September 28-29 2024 is the CliShay Fest. This 2 day gathering is for CliShays, Geared and Side Rod Engines. For more information see CliShay Fest on the CinderSniffers.org page.
.