Audience hears history of county fair
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The History of the Chautauqua County Fair was presented to a large audience at the Fredonia Opera House by David Wilson. Wilson has been associated with the fair for 40 years and served as president of the fair also.
The first Chautauqua County Fair was more than 200 years ago in December 1821. It was held after the harvest season. Prizes were awarded to the best animals and the best looking farms. The fair was not held every year until 1917 and is now permanently located on Central Avenue in Dunkirk. The fair will be celebrating its 110th year next year.
As the fair continued, amusements were added to make it a fun time for everyone. Awards to animals are still awarded. In 1929 Floral Hall was constructed by the Fredrickson Brothers Construction Co. of Cassadaga, and is used year round. The fair has been held every year except for the three years during World War II, when prisoners of war were housed there. During the Covid years, prizes were still awarded to animals. The fair has grown to make it a summer event for all to enjoy.
Wilson said the fairgrounds are used for other shows during the year such as car shows, dog shows, flea market, tennis matches, and during the winter for storage for vehicles and equipment. During Wilson’s speech, he had a slide show of events of the fair from many years.
In addition to working with the fair, Wilson also serves as the Town of Stockton Supervisor.