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| Michigan Get-Together 2025 |
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September 13 turned out to be a gorgeous day at the home of Utz S. as he hosted 16 Scalies from around Michigan, with Jan and Bill B. coming from Illinois. We welcomed members Alan and Melissa S. to their first Michigan meeting. They had attended their first convention in Charleston this past May and apparently decided they were willing to spend more time with us. We appreciated their company and hope they become "regulars."
Our shared food, lots of conversation and some boot (a.k.a. trunk) displays led to more questions than answers for our show-and-tell. Jack M. presented us with a quiz in the back of his car. "Have you seen one of these? What does this beam do?" He brought a scale from the Anderson Computing Scale Company that uses beams, like the first scales from Dayton and Detroit scale companies. One of the beams has unusual graduations, and the scale came with some very interesting rectangular weights. Conclusion: More questions than answers!
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Considering they were going to the Michigan meeting, Jan and Bill thought it would be appropriate to bring a Henry Troemner scale with "Michigan Bean Association" etched on the center plate. This scale was used to determine the percentage of dirt and moisture in beans. The original painting on the scale is in superb condition making it very striking to look at. Jan said she and Bill were not familiar with the Michigan Bean Association. However, the locals from around the state were all aware of it so it definitely was a hit with the Michigan folks.
Gregg M. showed a balance from the English Co-operative Wholesale Society (CWS). Formed in 1863 by independent co-op societies, CWS provided products to sell in hundreds of co-op stores. The eye-catching feature is the original hand-painted stenciling. The handsome ceramic plate with the CWS logo only adds to the beauty of this scale.
Gregg also brought 2 and 4 lb handle weights. From the stamp on the bottom of the weight we know they were made by the Computing Scale Company. Based on the construction the general consensus is they were calibration weights.
For his contribution to show-and tell, Greg M. brought a 7-foot, 700-lb capacity iron steelyard that he picked up in Clovis, New Mexico, on a recent road trip. To add to the variety, he also showed what appears to be a salesman's photo album of Stimpson's Louisville scales.
The day ended on a high note with everyone well-saturated with fellowship and sharing of our of common hobby.
For your calendar: September 19, 2026, for the next Michigan Get-Together with Dee and Larry H. who live north of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Be there!
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