The History of the Fulton County Fair

The Fulton County Fair was established in 1919 in Salem as a community agricultural fair, celebrating its centennial in 2019. From the beginning, local farmers and civic leaders organized annual exhibitions to showcase livestock, produce, and crafts. Even after 100 years, it “continues to provide a chance to come together and showcase the many talents of its citizens” (KTLO.com).

Now operated by the nonprofit Fulton County Fair Association, the fair promotes local agriculture and the creative arts through events like 4-H/FFA exhibits and homemaking contests. Over the years, the fairgrounds have expanded significantly. In 1985, rancher Morris Hall and volunteers built the rodeo arena by carving a level plateau into a hillside (KTLO.com). Since 2000, state grants have improved the infrastructure with buildings and bleachers. 

By the 2010s, the fairgrounds included multiple barns, the Hickinbotham–Miller Exhibit Building, and a show arena. The 2019 centennial, themed “100 Years of Fulton County’s Best,” featured special events, a commemorative cookbook to raise scholarship funds, and honors for longtime contributors like Morris Hall and WWII veteran Bill Strauss, who turned 100 that year (KTLO.com). 

Held each July, the fair draws thousands of visitors and supports the local economy. Admission, vendor sales, and donations help fund scholarships and facility upgrades. The fair remains entirely volunteer-run and, as its mission states, aims “to promote and showcase the agricultural and creative arts talents of Fulton County residents” (fultoncountyfair.org). Through its events, the fair preserves rural traditions and fosters youth education and community pride.