The Linn County Fair, Origin
and History
by Wayne Schasteen
In 1870, still recovering from the Civil War, the first fair in Linn County was
held. The passage of the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854 had provoked border
conflicts and some of the most brutal struggles took place in Linn County.
With Missouri on the eastern boundary, Linn County was in the heart of
"Bleeding Kansas." The War left many casualties but the pioneer spirit
prevailed, and soon this rich agricultural region would yield bountiful
harvests again. As a result of this, the Linn County Fair was started. As an
event where friends and neighbors met to display the fruits of their labor. It
remains one of the largest and best fairs in the state of Kansas.
The origin of the fair dates back to pre-Christian times when herders and
merchants would come together at festivals to exhibit and sell their wares.
During the sixteenth century in England, privately owned marketplaces in
the cities largely replaced fairs and livestock markets. In America, some
fairs became so large that they assigned certain days for classes of entry,
generally providing nightly games and entertainment. The farming regions
of the Midwest regarded fairs as the social event of the year.
The farmers of Elm Grove in Linn County Set out to have an organized fair.
In 1870 and 1871, the Elm Creek Farmers' Club held annual fairs during
October in Scott Township, presently known as Cadmus. They had livestock
exhibits which could have competed proudly with the best at the Kansas
City Exposition. There was hardly a person in the county who would not
lend assistance to such an organization,
or benefit from it. In 1872, it became
the first fair in the county to offer
premiums, until that time participants
had to attend the Kansas and Missouri
fair in Ft. Scott for that kind of
competition. Under pressure from
county residents the Elm Creek Club
incorporated and became the Linn
County Agricultural Society. On
November 2nd, 1872, they elected
officers: President, J.J. Shinkle; Secretary,
J.C. Proctor and A.G. Sailor; Treasurer,
J.W. Payne; Directors, M.E. Woodard, J.J.
Shinkle and Z. Leasure.
The site for the first Linn County Agricultural Society Fair in October in 1873
was Farlinville, Kansas. When the failure of a leading investment bank
brought on the "Panic of 1873", a depression in the United States that
lasted four years, the Agricultural Society did not slow down. A.E. Drigs and
W.L. Silsby provided a race track south of Farlinville. Displays of produce
filled the newly erected tents and livestock filled the grounds, featuring the
finest Shorthorn cattle and Berkshire hogs in the land. One of the most
important exhibits of the fair was specimens of lead ore taken from various
locations in the county. Other events included carriage horse shows and
equestrian events by the ladies who were in attendance, and foot races for
the young men. One surprise entry in the races was a young black man.
Several white men who entered the race refused to run against him. He
easily took the lead perhaps revealing their true motives for not welcoming
him into the competition, but the young black did not win the race. Before
coming down the home stretch, he turned around and ran backwards. Until
the others passed him, giving away the first prize and adding a bit of
humility to the winner's ribbon. The first exhibitions' success in Farlinville
inspired the society to make greater efforts for the 1874 fair.
The proposal of LaCygne Kansas citizens in 1874 encouraged the directors
to hold the second annual Fair in their town A meeting of interested
citizens planned to lease thirty acres on the north edge of town. Before
opening day, the acreage had been cleared, fenced and a splendid half-mile
race track was completed, making it one of the finer exhibition spots in the
Midwest Despite the combined efforts of cinch bugs, grasshoppers and
drought the fair proved to be very successful The usual displays of
livestock, produce and sewing gave the crowd d plenty to see A yoke of
buffalo shown by Josh Shaefer of Middle Creek added a bit of novelty to the
fair. The area equipment dealers demonstrated the newest technology in
implements, made to ease the labor of everyday farming.
The Linn County fairs took on many changes in 1875. The Agricultural
Society in LaCygne purchased the land they formerly leased and built a
Floral hall in the form of a Greek cross, along with other various buildings.
Baseball added more excitement to the festivities along with baby contests
and horse racing. Toward the end of 1875 the Lion County Agricultural and
Mechanical Association incorporated purchasing sixty acres of land near
Mound City. With J.F. Broadhead as president they sold shares to raise
capital for land buildings and an amphitheater. These two agricultural
societies exhibited Linn County's desire for progress in the agricultural
areas.
In 1876 the people of Linn County could attend two excellent fairs. One in
LaCygne under the authority of the Agricultural Society and the other in
Mound City sponsored by the Agricultural and Mechanical Association. The
one in LaCygne was listed as the Linn County Fair. On October the 4th. 5th
and 6th. Later in the month, the First Annual Fair of the Linn County
Agricultural and Mechanical Association began at Mound City. Many people
attended both fairs to see the hundreds of entries from farmers merchants
and housewives of the local communities. The competition between the
two organizations benefited fairgoers, as each tried to create a larger and
more spectacular event. The organization both held fairs over the next few
years. From 1884-1889 the Pleasanton Kansas Fair Association sponsored
their own fair. During these six years Linn County offered three different
fairs for people to enjoy and attendance records show that most people in
the area attended each of them.
In 1905, the Linn County Fair Association replaced the Agricultural and
Mechanical Association. A.H. Mantey purchased the fairgrounds and leased
it to the Fair Association each year. The Fair Board then built a one race
track and grandstand. The 1906 fair offered some of the most spectacular
events yet, complete with balloon ascensions and boat rides. There were
thrills for everyone. Over the next few years, the fair reflected Linn County's
prosperity. Starting with the Grange picnic and Coach Colt Show in 1907,
Blue Mound conducted a main street fair for about the next thirty years,
Even though all three towns still held Pairs the one in Mound City grew to
daily crowds of 6000 people.
During World War I county fairs often demonstrated patriotic themes in
support of the troops overseas. After the War Linn Countians enjoyed a bit
of prosperity until the stock market crash of 1929. This put the United
States in a depression that would last ten years, and leave thousands of
Americans unemployed. Despite economic hardship the fairs continued
during the early thirties featuring harness races and professional wrestling
for everyone to enjoy along with the regular agriculture exhibits. At a
meeting of in August of 1936, the directors decided to cancel the fair in
Mound City. Because of the continued dry weather, the board believed
attendance would be small and agricultural exhibits not very significant.
The fair was held at LaCygne in 1936. Even though many displays showed
the effects of dry weather, it was a great success for the young people of
Linn County. In 1937, a complete fair and stock show began in LaCygne
under the sponsorship of the A.T.A an organization joining the Agricultural
Society in 1913. The installation of lights let everyone beat the heat and still
enjoy the horse show and races after dark.
In 1938 the Linn County Fair Association voted to once again conduct a fair
at Mound City. After canceling the event at that location for the last two
years, the fair board decided on a rodeo for entertainment A parade
passed down the main street of Mound City using "Settlement Days" as a
theme. The parade featured horses, covered wagons and Pete Data's
Cowboy Band. The financial situation of many people kept them from the
fair but the addition of the rodeo did help attendance in the afternoons.
Both fairs continued until 1940 when the Linn County Fair Association
merged with the fair at LaCygne. The primary motive of the fair was
promoting agriculture and the livestock industry. The combined efforts
provided improvements in every area, encouraging the 4-H and vocational
students in the county to do their best.
World War II had an impact on the fair During the war, many things were in
short supply, People used ration coupons for items such as fuel, sugar, tires
and shoes. Many items were contributed to the war effort such as scrap
metal, clothing and tires creating a recycling trend much like today's. In
1943, the Fair Board did not lease the grounds from Mr. Mantey. Instead
they decided to hold the fair across Sugar Creek near the Mound City water
plant. It was advertised in the paper as the 4-H Fair and Crop Show, Sept. l-
3. At the suggestion of Dr. L.D., Mills, county health officer the fair was
canceled that year due to increasing cases of infantile paralysis. In 1944,
while most people were using their efforts to fight the war on the home
front, the fair was canceled once again. The Fair Board, not wanting to slow
the efforts of the young people, decided to hold a 4-H show. Since they had
not secured a lease for the fairgrounds that year, it was held on the main
street of Mound City. Under the management of Carl Teagarden, crops and
clothing were displayed in businesses and the livestock were kept in
Peatman's used car lot.
1946 brought on one of the most significant events in the history of the
fair. Board members set out to sell stock certificates to raise enough capital
to purchase the fairgrounds. Many shares were sold and a number of
donations accepted. Shares were ten dollars each or half of a share for five
dollars J W. Farrar, an attorney for the livestock exchange in Kansas City,
helped out by purchasing fifty shares. The Federated Clubs of Mound City
acquired twenty shares but most were sold one or two at a time to local
residents. This gave the board enough to pay the $5000 needed to
purchase the grounds, The Linn County Fair would, as it still does today,
have a permanent home.
Another important part of the Linn County Fair is the 4-H clubs. Before
their existence the baby beef clubs were formed. Many of the counties
leading citizens purchased calves, which members of the club raised until
fair time. The cattle were then judged, and prizes awarded to the best.
Walter Daly came to Linn County in 1927 as the first county extension
agent. A full 4-H program was then developed and clubs were given names
such as Busy Bees, Willing Workers and Busy Workers to reflect their
attitudes toward involvement and community service. Over the years Linn
County 4-H clubs have been a strong backbone of the fair. At times when
open class entries were not plentiful, the 4-H clubs kept the shelves and
barns full giving everyone in attendance a chance to see the efforts of their
yearlong work. Midget auto races attracted fans at the 1949 fair. The same
troupe featured at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson thrilled fans as they
turned sharp corners at 40 miles per hour and reaching 70 as they flew
down straight-aways. KMBC radio entertainers were top billing at the
variety show. The rodeo featured riding, mule racing, trick roping, knife
throwing and whip cracking.
It was a constant struggle to ensure the continual growth of the fair. Two
things happened in 1952 which help to this day. One was the permanent
addition of a rodeo. While the rodeo raised attendance, it also brought in
revenue from ticket sales. Until this time, the fair usually charged fifteen to
twenty five cents for admittance. With the increased money from the
rodeo, the admission cost was eliminated and in 1953 it was advertised as
the Linn County Free Fair. In l954, the fair signed a contract with Robert's
Rodeo from Strong City, Kansas. They were also approved by the R.C.A.
which let the audience see many world class cowboys compete. Robert's
Rodeo worked with the fair until 1966. The board then entered into
contract with Rumford rodeo from Abbyville Kansas, which still provides top
stock to help the fair maintain a strong attendance.
The second event the fair sponsored in 1952 was the "Queen of the Linn
County Fair Contest." The queen contest was another way to ensure good
attendance, thus keeping it a free Fair Each queen contestant was
sponsored by a Linn County Organization or club The contestant and her
sponsor would sell advanced rodeo tickets and whoever sold the most was
then crowned queen. The winner received clothing or gift certificates. In
later years, the contest was changed to the Linn County Rodeo Queen. Now
they receive a percentage of their sales and each contestant wins a trophy
buckle if they reach a specified goal.
Many times over the years the fair would have a specific theme or idea In
1954, the theme was the Kansas Territorial Days Centennial. It started with
a parade through town and ended at the fairgrounds. A pageant that
evening entertained the crowd. One of the largest celebrations was in 1961,
the centennial of Kansas' statehood. The pageant that year had a
wonderful cast of local characters from throughout the county. They acted
out scenes from the past including Sister Philippine Duchesne and the
Indian mission, Carrie Nation, Jayhawkers and even local African American
residents as exodusters.
Entertainment has always been a big part of the fair. In the early days there
were horse racing, games for the children and music of various forms.
Carnivals became a big part of the fair with giant Ferris wheels and games
of chance, giving the younger audience something exciting to do.
One of the most traditional forms of entertainment, The Cowboy Band
made up of local residents to provide music, is no longer in existence. The
band performed nightly during rodeos and races and in the annual parade
rode in the Mound City Bandwagon. During the 1930s and 40s the band
was under the direction of Pete Data and in the later years Harrison
Underhill. In the 1980s, the board took a new approach to providing
entertainment. They started booking country music performers. Reba
McEntire appeared in 1985 when she was chosen as country rnusic's
entertainer of the year. The biggest event ever held at the fair was in 1990,
when Garth Brooks appeared. Both of these acts were booked prior to their
making it big. This gave fair goers a chance to see performances for a
fraction of the price they would pay if they drove to a larger city.
Over the years the fair has gotten larger, even though the population of the
county has declined. Linn County had 12,000 residents during the late
l800s, and only 7000 today. Linn County's per capita income is one of the
lowest in the state of Kansas. And it also has some of the highest
unemployment rates of any county in the state. There is no large town with
a, factory or employment base. The largest part of Linn County's tax base is
a coal - fired generating station in LaCygne. It is also the largest employer in
the county. Mostly Linn County is a rural farm community, a big reason for
the popularity of the fair.
The fair has had many locations in the county over the years, but it has
always contained the same basic format. The hard working people of Linn
County displaying their livestock and agricultural products. The people
behind the scenes at the fair have always wanted it to be a place for the
youngsters, whether they were 4-Hers or just kids wanting to have a good
time. It also drew the family unit together, in the early days many people
would load neighbors into wagons and make the journey to the fair. In
recent time many working parents schedule their vacations around the fair.
One of the largest draws people to the fair its simplicity. At a time when
every thing is fast paced and high priced a person can enjoy going to the
fair. It does not cost anything and you can sit and relax or talk to friends
and neighbors The fairgrounds are themselves a thing of beauty. The
buildings and fences are not marred by graffiti and vandalism which shows
the respect young residents have for it.
Numerous people in the county work hard in preparation for the fair. The
people on the board spend many hours working for its continuance. No
one receives pay, only the enjoyment of watching others have a good time.
Even though the fair is located in Mound City, the various county residents
who attend and help, make it truly a Linn County Fair. "See You At The Fair"
is one of the advertising themes that has been used for many years. And a
person can usually see friends and neighbors at the fair. The fair which
helped to heal the wounds of war, economic and natural disasters
continues to provide a sense of Community.
Bibliography
Andreas, A.T. History of Kansas, Kansas State Historical Society, Topeka, KS,
1976
A Little History about Mound City, Kansas, Linn County Historical Society,
Pleasanton, Kansas, 1977
Blue Mound Sun, Blue Mound, Kansas, 1907, 1921. Linn County Historical
Society, Pleasanton, Kansas
Fair Book, The Linn county Fair Association, 1953. Linn County Fairgrounds,
Mound City, Kansas.
Farm Weekly, The Kirkeminde, Topeka, Kansas, vol.3, 1966
"Kansas in Review", program Linn County Fair Association, Centennial
Committee of Linn County, 1961. Larry Blair, Mound City, Kansas.
LaCygne Journal, LaCygne, Kansas, Kenea, 1971-1876. Linn County
Historical Society, Pleasanton, Kansas.
Linn County Clarion, Mound City, Kansas, 1881. Linn County Historical
Society, Pleasanton, Kansas.
Linn County Heritage, Linn County News, special section, vol. 4, 1982. Linn
County Historical Society, Pleasanton, Kansas
Linn County News, Pleasanton, Kansas, Fair Edition, 1971, 1985. Linn
County Historical Society, Pleasanton, Kansas.
Linn County Republic, Mound City, Kansas, Madden, 1906. Linn County
Historical Society, Pleasanton, Kansas
Minutes of the Linn County Fair Board, Mound City, Kansas, E.P. Landers
sec., 1943-44. Linn County Fairgrounds, Mound City, Kansas.
Mound City Republic, Mound City, Kansas, Hively, 1936, 1938, 1939, 1943.
Linn County Historical Society, Pleasanton, Kansas
Records of the Linn County Fair Board, Mound City, Kansas, 1945, 1946,
1985, 1994. Linn County Fairgrounds, Mound City, Kansas.
Rodeo Program, The Linn County Fair Association, 1991. Linn County
Fairgrounds, Mound City, Kansas.
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