Shared by Matt Knight, Education Specialist, as Guest Blogger.

Farming has not only defined what it means to be a Virginian, but also an American. It is in our blood. Chippokes State Park has been a working farm since the founding of America, and to commemorate this, the park will host its 26th Annual Steam and Gas Engine Show on June 4 through June 5, 2016.

The 26th Annual Steam and Gas Engine Show is fun for all ages

In the first moments of spring, a farmer arrives in his or her fields early in the morning with heavy machinery and a readiness for the long months of the growing season ahead. Look almost anywhere in the state of Virginia and you will see this image.

Children will enjoy the Little Engines Kids Corner and the pedal tractor pull

The show will feature an antique tractor pull and farm machinery demonstrations. Don't miss the sawmill demonstrations, “hit-and-miss” engines, great food, local vendors, and classic cars. Bring your kids to the Little Engines Kids Corner, where they can participate in a kids pedal tractor pull, have a stilt race, use their imaginations in a straw fort, and see Peter, the park’s adorable white rabbit.

Plan to stay the entire day to see the sawmill demonstrations, “hit-and-miss” engines, great food, local vendors, and classic cars

The show’s mascot for this year is the classic Farmall Super C tractor. The first tractors were powered by steam and were used on farms as early as 1868. Tractors, with their versatility and efficiency, gradually replaced draft animals as sources of power in the fields, and by the late 20th century had become a cultural icon of America.

A Pasture Pals program will get you in touch with your farming roots

In addition to the Steam and Gas Engine Show, you can visit the park’s Farm and Forestry Museum or attend the “Pasture Pals” program to get in touch with your farming roots.

Come to the 26^th Annual Chippokes Steam and Gas Engine show where you are sure to make new memories-you can bet the farm on that.

For more information, call the park office at (757) 294-3728. The park is located at 695 Chippokes Park Road, Surry Virginia, click here for a Google map.