The History of the County Fair

Posted on: August 2, 2011 by Anne Brooks Subscribe

Fairs have been around for centuries. They can be documented all the way back to the Roman period, although during this time, fairs were primarily court pleadings and a break from the everyday. In the Middle Ages, fairs were similar to what we know today as a farmers market.

Fairs have evolved over the years, and they vary greatly depending on country and even region. Many of our local fairs in Middlesex County focus on agricultural. Other fairs have different focuses for example Frankfurt Germany’s annual Book Fair is centered on selling books and showcasing the local industry.

If you examine historical Tri County Heritage Fair programs, one can see that agriculture has always been the main focus. Competitions are a popular part of any fair. Traditional judging categories include a variety of livestock, crops and vegetables, home craft and agricultural.

Fall Fairs have continued to thrive in local communities. With new technologies, fairs have become small scale amusement parks with much of the focus on midway rides and games of chance.

This summer Fanshawe Pioneer Village will re-create a traditional 19th Century Agricultural fair to keep the rural heritage of London & Middlesex County alive!

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