LINCOLN - Bob Cowan knows that times change. But the Mount Pulaski farmer has found a way to remember what he calls the "good old days."

As president of the Land of Lincoln Antique Engine and Tractor Club, Cowan and his wife, Dorothy, have daily contact with those looking for ways to hang on to the past. The club averages between 100 and 150 members and often sets up displays of their antique tractors and engines at fairs, festivals and events.

Early Tuesday, the Cowans were setting up a tent at the 72nd annual Logan County Fair, which runs through Sunday. Nearly three dozen tractors and engines were on display.

"There have been years when we have had a lot more," Bob said. "But this year, we've seen participation drop a little bit because of the wet spring and people are still trying to catch up. But also, the fuel prices have a big impact. You have to transport these machines and some of them are very heavy. So, your gas mileage is going to be next to nothing. These fuel prices are just having an impact on everything."

But talk is cheap and the Cowans love to chat about the past and the way life - and in particular a farmer's life - has changed.

"That's one of the great things about going to fairs and festivals," Dorothy Cowan said. "You have the opportunity to visit with people who have great stories to share."

The club is always looking for new members and old equipment, Bob said. The Cowans brought their 1941 Case tractor to the fair, and some of their fellow club members brought equipment even older than that.

"The tough thing about a club like this is that it's hard to attract new and younger members," Bob said. "As our members get older, it gets tougher for them to participate and so we are always looking for members, particularly those that are younger who have a real interest in antique engines and tractors."

The Cowans have been attending fairs and festivals with the club for about 15 years. Members of the club transport their tractors and engines to the grounds to set up for the display. Many, such as Mike Irwin and Vicki White, both of Beason, stop by to visit with fair-goers.

"It's always non-stop traffic once the crowds arrive because we have different items every time and we never know what is going to show up for sure," Dorothy Cowan said.

In addition to the club's tent, several other activities and events are scheduled for this year's fair. A carnival featuring amusement rides, games and food opened Tuesday. Other scheduled events include a county-wide fire department waterball competition, harness racing, chili cookoff, and a special Wednesday night stock car race. The fair concludes with a demolition derby on Sunday night.

The fair began in 1937 on the exact location where it stands today, on Lincoln's western edge.

On the Net: www.logancountyfair.ccaonline.com.