The Early Days of the Goshen Country Fair 1949-1970
In this new series of blog posts, the Chester County History Center Library focuses on stories found within our expansive clippings files. For more info, drop in to see the clippings yourself or email the Library at [email protected].
by Wyatt Young, Librarian, assisted by Lucas Farmer, Library Intern
This year The Goshen Country Fair is celebrating its 75th anniversary and will be held July 29th through August 3rd. Organized by the Goshen Fire Company, originally its primary goal was to raise funds and support for vital organization. The Fair’s popularity quickly helped it evolve into a beloved annual celebration that brings together residents from all corners of the county.
The origins of the fair date back to 1949, when the Goshen Fire Company sought innovative ways to engage the community and raise funds. The early fairs were characterized by their simplicity, showcasing local agricultural talents, homemade goods, and fostered a sense of camaraderie among neighbors.
Besides local food and rides, the Goshen Country Fair was filled with attractions. Some of these events have been around since the fair’s founding, and continue to this day. But others, such as the pie eating contest and beauty pageant, have fallen by the wayside in recent years.
One of the earliest and most notable attractions was the livestock show, which highlighted the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Farmers from across the county brought their finest cattle, pigs, and poultry to compete for the coveted ribbons and titles. In those early days, notable winners included Barbara Young, whose Ayrshire cow won Grand Champion honors, and Mildred Seeds, who showcased her champion Guernsey.
Popular among families and younger visitors, the Petting Zoo at the Goshen Country Fair offered a hands-on experience with a variety of animals. Contributions from the Pennsylvania State Game Commission, including native wildlife exhibits, educated visitors on environmental conservation.
Entertainment was a crucial aspect of the fair, and in its early years, it featured a variety of acts from traveling circuses that captivated audiences. High-wire performances by artists like “The Great Erick” and comedy acrobatics by the Domels were crowd favorites, drawing gasps and laughter from attendees. The fair also hosted amateur contests, providing a platform for local talents to shine. Winners of these contests often walked away with not just prizes but also community recognition and pride.
One such contest that continues today are the Fair’s dog shows, which showcase a variety of breeds and their impressive skills. Organized with the help of local dog clubs, these events featured everything from obedience trials, to cuteness levels, to agility demonstrations. Notable competitors included “Trooper,” a 125-pound German Shepherd known for his size, obedience, and numerous tricks. In early days, the dog show was organized by local sportsman Joe Baldwin and represented over 35 breeds, providing a comprehensive display of canine excellence.
Also continuing today, the Tug-O-War competition was always a crowd-pleaser, pitting local fire companies and community groups against each other in a test of strength and teamwork. Matches such as West Bradford versus Goodwill Fire Companies and Paoli versus West Chester Fire Companies drew enthusiastic spectators, fostering a spirit of friendly rivalry and community camaraderie. This event not only entertained but also highlighted the fair’s emphasis on community involvement and local pride.
Another event in the realm of competition, the pie-eating contest quickly became a highlight of the fair and embodied the fun and competitive spirit of the event. Young Thomas Huch was among the early champions, seen wearing his “pie beard” as his crown. The beauty pageant was another early cornerstone of the fair, intending to celebrate the charm and poise of local young women. While competitions like these have been the subject of scrutiny in our current era, at one point they were a big draw for locals as the Fair was establishing itself.
In those formative years, the Goshen Country Fair was more than just an event; it was a reflection of the community’s spirit. It brought together people from various backgrounds to celebrate their shared heritage, achievements, and aspirations. The fairgrounds buzzed with the excitement of new car parades, tractor displays, and the lively sounds of music and square dancing. The legacy of the Goshen Country Fair lies in its ability to adapt and grow while staying true to its roots.
As we look back on the early days of the Goshen Country Fair, we celebrate the efforts of the Goshen Fire Company and the countless volunteers who have made this event a lasting tradition. Their dedication and hard work have ensured that the fair remains a cherished part of our county’s history, bringing joy and togetherness to generations.
