Restored and preserved machines and vehicles on show at a Steam Engine Rally in Stradbally, County Laois.
The price of a steam engine in Ireland has reached as high as £1,000. Steam enthusiasts in Britain are paying up to £5,500 for the perfect model.
There are basically three types of steam engine - the thresher, the spring tractor and the steam roller, each with different functions and capabilities. Many of the surviving steam engines have been found disused in farm yards or rescued from scrap yards.
There's a magnificence about them, a rather stunning solidarity that defies time.
Many of the steam engines have been restored with a loving appreciation in a pain staking process which can take many months. It can be a costly business as many parts are scarce or no longer available and have to be handmade. There is also the cost of the coal to power the engine. The results of this hard work can be seen at the Irish Steam Rally at Stradbally in County Laois on 6 and 7 August. It is hoped that a steam museum will eventually be established in Stradbally.
A steam engine rally was held in Ireland last year for the first time and about 11,000 people attended. This year, the rally will feature the greatest collection of steam engines ever assembled in Ireland. Colonel Charles Kidd is President of the Irish Steam Engine Preservation Society and founder of the rally.
We're trying to preserve the few remaining engines there are in the country.
Colonel Charles Kidd says that the rally is not just about steam engines. There are other activities to keep the spectators amused and entertained, including an egg and spoon race, musical chairs, a beer drinker's race, a ladies' race and a gentlemen's race.
Colonel Kidd admits that most steam engine collectors are a bit eccentric but says that it is a hobby that is growing in popularity internationally.
There is something majestic about the power and the smoothness of these machines.
This episode of 'Newsbeat' was broadcast on 14 July 1967. The reporter is Bill O'Herlihy.
