03/29/2026
The Smoke Ring News
The Pioneer Engineers Club of (Rushville) Indiana, Inc. NEWSLETTER
March 2026
Greetings to all members and friends of the Pioneer Engineers Club!
Spring is just around the corner, and we are looking forward to the warmer weather with hopes of seeing many friends and family as the year moves ahead. Planning is well underway for our 2026 Pioneer Engineers Club Reunion, scheduled for August 6–9, and we are excited about what lies ahead. We invite everyone to help make this reunion one of the best in our memories.
This year’s reunion will feature:
• Allis-Chalmers tractors
• Undermounted, return-flue or other uniquely designed steam engines
New Feature Tractor Building
When you arrive on the grounds this year, you will notice a new building. The Pioneer Engineers Club received a generous grant from the Jerred D. Ruble Family Charitable Foundation to make this project possible. The structure has been erected; electrical wiring and a concrete floor will be completed before the reunion. The building will serve as our feature tractor building. Beginning with the 2026 reunion, the feature tractor area will be relocated to the field near this new building. We are excited about this addition to Caldwell Pioneer Acres.
April 11 Workday & Social Gathering
Our first upcoming event of the year will be a Workday and Social Gathering on Saturday, April 11. We will begin projects around 9:00 AM, and there will be plenty to keep everyone busy. Planned activities include:
• Picking up fallen sticks and limbs
• Cutting and stacking wood
• Beginning repairs on the club’s Huber steam engine
• Possible mowing
If you are able, please bring chainsaws and wood splitters. We especially encourage our steam engine members to attend, as cutting, splitting and stacking wood is essential to an active and successful reunion. A good supply of wood helps ensure our engines can run throughout the event, and we truly appreciate everyone who contributes.
At noon, we will enjoy a pitch in meal. The Club will provide meat and drinks; please bring a side dish or dessert to share. Even if you are unable to participate in the workday, you are more than welcome to join us for the meal and fellowship. We look forward to seeing you!
Grounds Mowing Assistance
We will soon be entering mowing season. We sincerely appreciate everyone who dedicates time to help keep the grounds looking their best. Because weddings and other gatherings are often held at the clubhouse on weekends, weekday mowing is usually preferred to avoid disturbing scheduled events. If you have time during the week and are willing to help, your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Volunteers Needed for the Reunion
As many of you know, it takes many volunteers to make the reunion a success. Help is needed in several areas, including Gates, Office, Machine shop, Gas engine building, parade operations, and many other roles. If you are willing to help in any capacity, please contact the Club. Your time and support make a tremendous difference.
Important Dates for 2026
Please mark the following dates on your calendar:
• Spring Workday – Saturday, April 11
• June Workday – Sunday, June 14
(Please note: this date has been revised from the November 2025 newsletter.)
• Clean Up Weekend – August 1–2
• Pioneer Engineers Club 78th Reunion – August 6–9
• Workday & Election Meeting – Saturday, November 7
We thank you for your continued support of the Pioneer Engineers Club and look forward to a productive and enjoyable year ahead.
