Muscatine County Fairgrounds
History
The Union District Agricultural Society began holding fairs in southwest Cedar County in 1863, and transferred them to West Liberty in 1871. The West Liberty Park Association was established three years later and bought the first 31 acres (13 ha) for the society in 1875. Additional land, which makes up the historic district, was purchased in 1889 and 1963. The initial wood-frame buildings were replaced by some of the present buildings beginning in 1915 with the Exhibition Hall. County fairs in rural areas were a showcase of livestock, agricultural products, home economics, and craftwork. Youth participation began to increase in the 1910s, the result of practical rural education. Structures geared to their activities were built beginning in the 1930s. As demand grew at about the same time for spectator space along the race track, a new grandstand was built in 1928. Because the size of the exhibitions grew in the mid-20th century, new and larger exhibition space was added in the 1960s, which included a new livestock judging pavilion in 1966.
The race track initially sponsored horse racing throughout the summer months. The stalls and track were used for rental and training purposes. They were eventually replaced by auto races. In addition to the races and the fair, various other events are held at the fairgrounds. They include family reunions, picnics, holiday celebrations, and other community events.
See also
References
- ^ "National Register Information System". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. March 13, 2009.
- ^ Sarah Tisinger (July 25, 2014). "Grant will help with Muscatine County Fairgrounds research". Muscatine Journal. Muscatine, Iowa. Retrieved January 26, 2016.
- ^ Rebecca Lawin McCarley. "West Liberty Fairgrounds Historic District" (PDF). National Park Service. Retrieved July 5, 2017.
- ^ "Muscatine County Fairgrounds added to National Registry Of Historic Places". Muscatine Journal. Muscatine, Iowa. January 4, 2016. Retrieved January 26, 2016.