Big Brutus is the nickname of the Bucyrus-Erie model 1850-B electric shovel, which was the second largest of its type in operation in the 1960s and 1970s. Big Brutus is the centerpiece of a mining museum in West Mineral, Kansas where it was used in coal strip mining operations. The shovel was designed to dig from 20 to 69 feet (6.1 to 21.0 m) down to unearth relatively shallow coal seams, which would themselves be mined with smaller equipment.
Watch young chefs bring their creativity to the griddle in this lighthearted cooking showdown! Each contestant will craft their own take on the classic grilled cheese, with plenty of gooey cheese, golden bread, and big smiles. It’s all about fun, flavor, and a little friendly competition as the kids show off their culinary skills for the crowd. Join us Saturday at Noon!
Prepare to groove to the electrifying beats of our live music extravaganza at the Big Iron Overland Rally! Headlining the night are two incredible bands: The Mixtapes, who will bring a high-energy set filled with 90s hits from pop to grunge, and The Hips, delivering a dynamic mix of rock, pop, and dance music across the decades. Alongside these showstoppers, more talented artists will be taking the stage, ensuring a night full of diverse rhythms and unforgettable performances. Get ready to dance under the stars and make memories with fellow campers!
At the Big Iron Overland Rally, kids can experience the thrill of offroading with the 4 Seasons RV Power Wheels Course! Sponsored by 4 Seasons RV, this exciting area lets young adventurers get behind the wheel of one of six offroad Power Wheels cars. Designed just for kids, the course offers a fun and safe environment where they can navigate obstacles and drive like the grown-ups. It’s the perfect way for the little ones to join in on the overland excitement and create their own memorable adventure at the rally!
Join us at the Big Iron Overland Rally for an exciting Charity Auction where you can bid on incredible items generously donated by our sponsors. This live auction offers a unique opportunity to take home some fantastic gear while supporting a great cause. Every dollar raised goes directly to the preservation and betterment of Big Brutus, ensuring this iconic piece of history continues to inspire and educate future generations. Don’t miss your chance to contribute to a worthy cause and walk away with something special!
Embark on a transformative journey with our adventure courses and enlightening lectures. Trainers with over 12 years of public safety, 4 years of workplace safety, and 28 years of outdoor experience, they are dedicated to empowering individuals seeking to explore uncharted territories. Discover invaluable guidance, training opportunities, and a range of essential gear designed to enrich your outdoor experience. Stay tuned for further details on equipment reviews, safety insights, and the exciting educational offerings that await you.
The Endless Foot Drag is one of several annual events held throughout the year in Southeast Kansas. Paramotor pilots from around the world meet for aerial competitions that provides breathtaking views of prairies and farmland, as well as the Flint Hills, and multiple lakes and rivers.
In just five years, the overlanding community has come together to raise $75,000 in support of preserving the coal mining history of Big Brutus in West Mineral, Kansas. This incredible effort ensures that future generations can experience and learn from this towering piece of America’s industrial past. Thank you to everyone who has camped, rallied, and contributed—you’re keeping history alive.
