The Barlow Fair is the only independent fair of its size in the state.  It still abides by the principles of an Act for encouraging Agriculture that was passed on February 27, 1846.  The purpose of the fair was to encourage agricultural and mechanical arts, and to disseminate useful information thereof to area farmers.

The grains, vegetables and household items were displayed on a dance platform in a rented tent.  Admission was 10 cents for adults and free for children.

By the second fair in September 1873, a domestic hall had been erected with poles tied between trees for cattle and horses.  The rough pens were made of white oak rails.

A track for showing and racing horses was built in 1889.  Automobiles made their appearance at the 1914 fair and owners paid a 25 cent entrance fee.

Early exhibits at the fair included horse-drawn plows, side-hill plows, wheat drills, corn planters, post-hole diggers, fanning mills, stump extractors, wheelbarrows, pony carts and many styles of horse- drawn vehicles.

Woodworking displays included furniture, newel posts, butter firkins, barrels, tubs, brooms, wooden buckets, and fly brushes.  Harnesses, shoes, saddles, and rugs were also displayed.

When the Fair Board was able to purchase 30 acres in the late 50’s, they expanded the facilities.  A variety of permanent buildings were erected over the years, including the home of Scout Troop 217 on the West grounds.  The Sheep Building was converted into an excellent picnic shelter.

Come on out for the next Barlow Fair!

Barlow Fairgrounds

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