The tractors, all shapes and sizes just kept coming, and the Dundas Manor residents could not have been more pleased during the 20th anniversary of the Tractor Parade held on Sun., Aug. 11. Tinkess Photo

WINCHESTER – Whoever came up with the idea to ask John Cinnamon to organize a tractor parade many years ago should receive credit for having the foresight to choose the right person for the job. In 2024, the parade celebrated its 20th anniversary, and Cinnamon is still at the helm and enjoying every minute of it.

Originally the idea was to have a bit of a competition, but according to Cinnamon, he wasn’t having anything to do with that. “I had said to find someone else because there was no way I’m telling you that your tractor is nicer than the next guy’s,” said Cinnamon.  “If I’m going to do that, I want to get into politics.”

He got his way, and that has been the philosophy ever since. Have as many people as possible agree to meet, and then have a bit of a parade, cruising through the streets of Winchester and ultimately past the front entranceway to Dundas Manor. That, to Cinnamon, is the best part.

“That’s the highlight of it, driving past Dundas Manor. They really get a kick out of it. They bring all the residents outside, and they make sure there are no cars in the parking lot. We go in the parking lot at one end out the other and they’re all sitting there in chairs and wheelchairs and waving and smiling and they love it.”

Many of the tractors belong to Cinnamon, but he gets people to drive them. They don’t have to be particularly clean (“Folks like to see them with their work clothes on,” said Cinnamon.)

This year, there were about 70 tractors in all (I say that because while I can count to 70, there was just too much to watch to pay that much attention to numbers.)

There were a lot of tractors, every possible shape, size and colour, some that looked almost brand new, others that would make you wonder how they could possibly still be running. There were Massey-Fergusons, Oliver’s, Internationals, Deere’s, New Holland’s, Ford’s, Cockshut’s, some of unknown lineage, and others.  Cinnamon led the way on a Case 900 diesel, pulling a wagon with well-wishers on it, and it is debatable who had the bigger smile, Cinnamon or the many residents who watched intently.

Many of the residents of Dundas Manor were involved in agriculture in their younger days, so seeing all this equipment, hearing the rumble of the engine, smelling the diesel, it all brings back memories. Seeing the smiles on their faces makes it all worthwhile, and you can easily understand why this tradition has lasted 20 years.

Here’s hoping that John Cinnamon is around for at least the next 20 as well!