The History of Fairs in Delaware County

The history of Delaware County celebrations and fairs encompasses almost 200 years. Come and hear about this unique history!
About this Event

The history of Delaware County celebrations and fairs encompasses almost 200 years, since 1833. The Delaware County Fair became the umbrella for many other Delaware celebrations, including The Powell Fair, The Rome Fair, The Ashley Fair, and The Delaware Pumpkin Show.

Delaware County Fair Director, Don Howard, will present the history of the Delaware County Fair, its development, and the outstanding events that set it apart from others.

Lester Ashbrook, a Buckeye Valley Graduate and a passionate Ashley, Ohio researcher, will describe the formation of the first Junior Fair in Ashley, Ohio, and the influence it had on the Ohio State Fair. He also will show pictures of the model he made of the Ashley Fair, which resides on the 2nd floor of the Junior Fair Building.

Nancy Fleming will create a festive fair atmosphere for this program. One very special exhibit will be a quilt that was created to celebrate the 70th birthday of her mother-in-law, Helen Sheets Fleming. In 1982, her many friends created the 70-panel quilt with 1-square-foot panels, representing different stories about her life. Many of the participating quilters also exhibited at the Delaware County Fair.

This is a free program, but donations are always appreciated, as they help support our efforts to preserve Delaware County history.