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MONROE Business and Neighborhood Directory
2016
r e i h t A ag “
Fairs are an iconic part of American history. The deep fried food, the variety of animals, the assortment of contests and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Since 1949, the Evergreen State Fairgrounds has been home to some of the largest and most memorable events in Snohomish County. But what you might not know is how Monroe became home to the Evergreen State Fairgrounds. The first ever fair took place in 1816 in Massachusetts with an irregularly
large agricultural display. The display was so popular, others began popping up all over the nation so people could show off their farm products and promote their community. Monroe resident, Salem Woods introduced Snohomish County’s first agriculture display in 1874. But the true “fair” didn’t become popular until the 1900’s. The “Snohomish Grange Fair”, “Pacific International Fair”, “Monroe Community Fair” and the “Cavalcade of the Valleys” were all fairs in Snohomish County but wartime priorities faded them all.
Photos by Evergreen State Fair