Wheatwackers - The Sumner County Wheatwacker’s Miniature Combines
As a derivative of the Sumner County Shrine Club, the Unit was formed in early 1978 when four Nobles met in a barn belonging to Noble Jack McCreery and devised a plan for the miniature combines, a fitting beginning to this unique unit. After developing the initial concept and several prototypes, five original units were designed and built with the grain carts following. This is all that will ever be built under our current bylaws and to our knowledge; these units are the only ones of their kind in the world. This makes Sumner County Wheatwacker’s one of the most unique units in all of the Shrine Motor Corps. The combines were custom manufactured by Harley Schmidt of “Unruh Fabricating Inc.” from Sedgwick, Kansas. Noble Mel Button and Noble Bernie Metzinger constructed the grain carts. In 1983, five members of the unit appeared in the made for TV movie “Parade” which was filmed in Halstead, Kansas. Purpose of the Sumner County Wheatwacker’s
Participate in Midian Shrine Functions, or other functions as the Potentate and/or Unit Officers shall direct, promoting FUN, goodwill and awareness of Shrine Hospitals for crippled, burned, or handicapped children. What We Do
We take our combines and Grain Carts to approved parades, usually on Saturdays, and we have a BLAST!3
We participate in Central States Shrine Association (C.S.S.A.) events (Competing in competitions and an obstacle course) and other events directed by Midian Shrine Center
How Do You Join? Ask for a Membership Petition from any unit member or contact the Unit Secretary
Complete the Petition and turn it in to the Unit Secretary or any Wheatwacker member. What is the Initial Cost? Although the final cost may vary depending on the individual’s preferences, rule of thumb would be around $1,800.00 to $1,900.00
