Carnegie Museum to host Business After Hours Aug. 10

The Carnegie Museum Foundation will be hosting a Chamber Business After Hours on Thursday, Aug. 10 from 4–7 p.m.

This celebration will be highlighted with memories of the First Iowa State Fair and many more activities, including food trucks, games and South Court Street in front of the Museum will be closed to traffic during the celebration.

The following is an excerpt of the history of the First Iowa State Fair.

First State Fair 1854

Wednesday, October 25, 1854, was selected as the date, and Fairfield as the place for holding the "First Annual Fair."

In February 1854, T. W. Clagett of Fairfield issued "an address to the farmers of Iowa" appealing for their support and cooperation. As an inducement to liberality, he proposed on his part to give "$25 for the best five acres of Indian corn raised in the state, $15 for the second best, and $10 for the third best."

In April J. M. Shaffer sought advice from farmers, producers, mechanics and artisans in regard to articles worthy of premiums. Few responded. In June, the list of premiums was made up. It was based upon a list of the State Society of Pennsylvania. About $1100 were divided among thirty-three classes.

The prizes ranged from $1 to $10, with the exception of three of $15 each. Two of the exceptions were on thoroughbred horses, the remaining one was on "the most numerous collections of agricultural implements." This dignity was due to their relation to the chief industry of the state.

The price of a daily admission was but 25 cents. Vehicles were not allowed within the enclosure.

  Buy Photo