Austin Boll is grateful for the chance to showcase his hometown of Ward, even if it is for just one day a year.
The young resident helped to host once again, in the small town of just 33 people, the third annual Hot Rod and Farm Show this past weekend.
He started the event in 2022 after moving back home to be closer to family and out of a love for the beautiful little City Park on the edge of town.
“It’s important. There isn’t a whole lot that we do here in Ward, we’re just trying to have a little bit of fun,” Boll said.
“It’s also a great way for neighbors who don’t see each other for years at a time to catch up. The other thing is, everyone is standing around talking. So it’s an opportunity to get to know each other, catch up…some of these neighbors don’t see each other for years at a time and here they just find out how things are going.”

Josh and Samantha Petersen of Lake Benton brought their rusty pickup truck, one that is a hit with kids who think that it looks like Tow-Mater.
“We hit up car shows all summer — this is our 12th one,” said Josh.
“It’s fun, it’s awesome, and the people you meet are great. The kids’ reactions are priceless.”
Dozens from the region brought with them a lively display of restored vehicles and vintage machinery while area vendors lined the park edge with information and retail booths.
Craig Millett showed off his 1963 Chevy Impala, restored piece by piece.
“I bought this in 2010 and did a frame-off restoration. Every nut and bolt is new,” Millett said.
“I love old cars. It’s what I grew up with.”
The day was a celebration of community, old friendships, and shared passions — a rare sight in a quiet town that’s already looking forward to next year’s event.