Sumner County Fair History

2020 Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Produced by

Because of COVID-19, there is no Fair in 2020.

Instead, we bring you this special keepsake.

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Page 2 | American Pride - County Wide

Dawson Monument Company, LLC

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1817 North A Wellington, KS 67152 (620) 326-5211

907 Summit Ark City, KS 67005 (620) 442-1010

1317 Main Winfield, KS 67156 (620) 221-1800 (800) 479-1809

Good luck 4-hers!

Dr. Harold Small D.D.S. 620-845-6417 3 S. Main St. ∙ Caldwell Open: Monday & Wednesday

620-435-6367 102 N. Main ∙ Argonia Open: Tuesday & Thursday

620-326-7686 207 E. Harvey Wellington

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

2020 Fair cancelled

The Board of Directors of the Sumner County Fair Association regrets to announce that the 2020 Sumner County Fair scheduled for July 30-August 2 has been cancelled due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The fair board decided in early June to continue forward with the plans for the 2020 fair. Since that time several of our vendors have canceled and caused us to search for other events to replace those scheduled. Monday, July 13. The Kansas State Fair Board is meeting to decide the fate of the state fair that earlier they also had decided to have; they have met some of the same problems that this board has had. Then this past week the virus cases in Sumner County spiked. Thus, it was the decision of the board that it would be best if the fair, except for livestock shows and the livestock auction, be canceled.

Those county 4-H and FFA youth who are enrolled in livestock projects were told early in the spring to go ahead and invest in their projects and the fair would develop a plan to ensure that they could complete the project and sell the animals. Thus, with the cancellation of the fair, we are moving to Plan B for the livestock. That plan entails having each species show at a specific time on either Friday, July 31 or Saturday, August 1 and bring the animals in only for the show and then return home. Animals will be shown “from the trailer” meaning that they will be unloaded and taken to the ring and shown and then returned to the trailer. During the show social distancing will be practiced as possible by both the exhibitors and spectators; masks will be required for exhibitors and recommended for spectators, workers, and judges. A complete schedule is found in this publication and will be available on our website and Facebook page.

The junior livestock auction will be held on Sunday, August 2 beginning at 2:30 p.m.

It will be based in the Caldwell Community Building; however, viewing and bidding can be done completely on line in the comfort of your home. You may register for the auction at www.dvauction.com under “create new account” tab. Apply for bidding by clicking “apply for bidding” in the upper left corner of your screen at least 24 hours prior to the auction. If you have questions about this process, please call Julia Strnad at 620-863-2471. Add on premiums can also be sent to Julia Strnad at 467 W. 80th St. S. in Wellington, KS 67152.

This publication contains a history of the Sumner County Fair. The Fair Board deeply appreciates those businesses who purchased advertising to make this publication possible. Please thank them when you are in their businesses. The Fair Board appreciates everyone’s understanding of our decision to cancel the fair and help keep Sumner County safe.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS SUMNER COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION CALDWELL, KANSAS

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Good Luck Area 4-H Groups!

JP WEIGAND & SONS, INC. Good Luck to All 4-H Participants at the

WAYS TO CONTACT US Sumner County Fair | Caldwell, KS 67022 Fair Phone: 620-845-2242 (July 29- August 5 only)

Cathy Sheets

Email: sucofair@gmail.com Website: www.sumnercountyksfair.com Facebook@sumnercountyfair | Twitter @sucofair Instagram @sucofair

316-215-1359 ∙ 1-800-377-2785

Toni Wolff, secretary (620-863-2466, 620-845-1485 or wolffgt@gmail.com)

Sumner County Fair Real Estate - Auctions - Land www.weigand.com

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Fair Medallion Search Toni Wolff, chariman

American Pride - County Wide 93rd Sumner County Fair

American Pride - County Wide | Page 3

American Pride County Wide

Fair Button Number 93 will be hidden somewhere on public property within the Caldwell city limits.

Clues will be posted on facebook and the outside of the south entry door of the new fair building according to the following time schedule: FRIDAY, July 31 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., noon, 2:00 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 1 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., noon, 2 p.m.

FINDER must have purchased a fair button and contact Toni Wolff (620-845-1485) to make arrangements to turn in medallion and show own fair button.

PRIZE: $100 BUTTONS DO NOT HAVE TO BE REGISTERED. Prize awarded when the button is returned to chairman.

The 2020 Sumner County Fair Keepsake is published by the

Conway Springs Star and

The Argonia Argosy

© 2018 Times-Sentinel Newspapers LLC Paul Rhodes.........................................................................................................................................Publisher Travis Mounts.......................................................................................................................Managing Editor Michelle Leidy-Franklin........................................................................................ Office/Billing Manager Valorie Castor and Rieley Franklin....................................................................................................... Sales Hilary Eash...............................................................................................................................Graphic Design Times-Sentinel Newspapers LLC • Conway Springs Star & Argonia Argosy The Times-Sentinel • Haysville Sun-Times • WestSide Story • East Wichita News 125 N. Main • PO Box 544 • Cheney, KS 67025 • 316-540-0500 • www.tsnews.com

Thank you to the Sumner County Fair Association, the Caldwell Messenger and the Kansas State Historical Society for their contributions to the historical information contained in this keepsake.

Sumner County Fair Buttons 93rd Sumner County Fair CASH GIVEAWAY 5 – $100 prizes $3.00 DONATION enters purchaser in the cash giveaway drawing. Do not have to be present to win. Winning numbers will be posted on facebook and fair website.

Buttons may also be used to reduce ticket price at the Figure 8 Race and Demolition Derby. Purchase buttons in Caldwell at the One Stop and Red Barn, from Karla Davis, and at Fair Building during livestock shows on Friday, July 31 and Saturday, August 1.

GRAND PRIZE DRAWING just prior to start of Junior Livestock Auction Sunday, August 2. Need not be present to win grand prizes. Must see button to claim prizes. Prizes must be claimed by midnight Sept. 2, 2020.

Call 620-863-2466 to claim prize.

Karla Davis, Chairman Button design courtesy of Bryony Strecansky

Page 4 | American Pride - County Wide

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

Junior Livestock Auction Sunday, August 2 • 3:00 p.m.

This terminal auction is open to any member of a Sumner County 4-H Club or Sumner County FFA. NO animal that goes through this auction is eligible for further competition. Sale bill and tag numbers of animals sold in this auction will be forwarded to the state fair and junior livestock show. The animal must be shown in the Sumner County Fair to be eligible to sell in the sale.

Animals must be tagged with the official Kansas 4-H/FFA tag.

The youth must indicate NO LATER THAN ONE (1) HOUR AFTER THE LAST LIVESTOCK SHOW ON SATURDAY the animals to be sold in the auction. If not indicated by this time, the SCJLA Committee will make the decision. Destination cards will be given to each exhibitor at the last show they participate in to make this indication. Sheep, swine, beef and goats that do not make the minimum weights will NOT be sold at the sale but may be sold to the base bid at Base Bidder’s discretion.

MINIMUM WEIGHTS ARE: Beef – 1000 lbs., Sheep – 100 lbs., Swine – 220 lbs. minimum and 290 lbs. maximum, and Meat Goats – 50 lbs. Sheep, swine and meat goats will be subject to discounts on the schedule of the base buyer’s bid.

The auction will be a video auction, taking place in the Community Building with online options at the 2020 auction. The sale order for 2020 will be the grand and reserve champions of each species in the order of swine, goats, sheep and beef. The grand champion and reserve champion of each division MUST be sold. Following the sale of champions, the rest of the livestock will be sold in rotations of approximately 1/3 of each species selling per rotation in the order beef, swine, goats and sheep.

No exhibitor can sell more than two (2) animals in the sale. If an exhibitor has more than two county champions, remaining champions will sell to the base bidder at base price. Seller must be present when called for sale lineup; if not present, seller may be skipped and ineligible to sell.

A charge of 2% of the base price or $5, whichever is greater, will be assessed to pay junior livestock auction expenses. Any excess over necessary sale expense will go to the Sumner County Fair Association Livestock Building Improvement Fund.

At the Junior Livestock Auction, the base for each type of animal will be sold in $$ per hundredweight. The premium on each animal will be auctioned in total dollars per head.

An exhibitor letter that will highlight any additional rules or changes to the rules will be sent before the auction date. Rules in the exhibitor letter will supercede rules printed in this announcement.

Sumner County Junior Livestock Auction The Sumner County Junior Livestock Auction Committee invites you to the Sumner County Junior Livestock Auction Sunday, August 2 • 2:30 p.m.

Community (Rock) Building on Fairgrounds or bid online from the comfort of your home For online bidding information contact Julia Strnad - 620-845-1707 The committee thanks all previous and new buyers for supporting the 4-H and FFA youth of Sumner County

Good luck 4-H and FFA! Lange Excavating Inc. 1020 N. Springdale Rd. Conway Springs

620-456-2937 Adv. paid for by Hoffman for State Representative, Stephen Hokanson, Treasurer.

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

American Pride - County Wide | Page 5

H H H H H 2020 Highlights H H H H H Kolache Kitchen Saturday, August 1 Nostalgia Nook Call 620-845-6424 or 620-845-2615 for information

Caldwell Pharmacy Open House Saturday, August 1 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Come join us for a free hamburger or hot dog!

4-H Cookie Jar Auction Sunday, August 2 2:30 p.m.

Preceding the Junior Livestock Auction Community Building or online Contact Julia Strnad at 620-863-2471 for information about online bidding

Good Luck to all 4-H Groups!

Have fun at the Fair!

Becker Farms Hay Grinding For all your hay grinding needs!

Call 316-293-6116

2020 Sumner County Fair Livestock Shows Individual Species - Show from Trailer Shows Friday, July 31

Saturday, August 2

8:00 a.m. – Swine Weigh-in will be 6:00-7:30 a.m.

8:00 a.m. – Beef (Bucket Calves follow beef show) To weigh-in, contact Matt Theurer at 620-892-5557

4:30 p.m. – Sheep Weigh-in will begin at 3:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m. – Goats Weigh-in will be from 8:00-9:45 a.m.

Wash racks will be available to rinse and cool animals. Have animals ready to show out of trailers and take animals and mess home at the conclusion of the show. If you need help driving animals and/or need pens, please contact Lewis Kuchar at 620-218-4497.

NOTE: Spectators should be limited to immediate family members only. Show will be on Facebook Live.

2020 Sumner County Fair Livestock Shows COVID-19 Guidelines 1. Due to the start of school following closely after the fair, all exhibitors will be required to wear masks participating in the livestock show. Masks will be available for those exhibitors who may not have their own.

2. Masks are recommended but not required for spectators, workers, and judges.

3. Social distancing needs to be practiced as much as possible both in and out of the show ring. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Some bleacher seating will be available.

4. Show ring and barn area will be disinfected between shows.

5. Hand sanitizer will be available in the barn.

6. Please do not attend these events if you are not feeling well.

Note: These guidelines are subject to change depending on COVID-19 and County Health Regulations.

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Page 6 | American Pride - County Wide

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

Grand marshals: Jay and Glennis Zimmerman

Jay and Glennis Zimmerman, South Haven, have been involved with county fairs since they showed livestock and other projects as 4-Hers in Sumner and Ellsworth counties.

When Glennis moved to Sumner County after college, she began volunteering as a 4-H leader in clothing and foods. Then when her oldest son, Travis, was 3, she became involved with the Sumner County Junior Livestock Auction, clerking the sale and doing the bookwork afterward. When Glennis and Jay got married, Jay began helping with the Fair as well.

Glennis joined the fair board in 1980 and was a fair board member until she retired from the board this year. During that time, she has been fair board president four years, was sheep superintendent for seven years, and served on various committees including the executive committee. She is currently the fair recording secretary, entering the placings into the computer program that computes fair premiums. She is still serving on the livestock sale committee, and creates the exhibitor presentation used for the sale.

Jay has taken on whatever tasks need doing while supporting Glennis. He built fence for Saturday night programs when they required tickets, watches the pit pass gate at the Demo Derby and Figure 8 Races, and does behind-the-scenes tasks that need doing.

When they are not working at the Fair, Jay and Glennis – who are retired from their careers as a civil engineer/farmer

and a school teacher/administrator – are involved with activities in their community. Jay is treasurer of the Community Church of South Haven Trustees, and is treasurer of Jackson Township. He enjoys working on old tractors and has quite a collection, some of which run. Glennis is the webmaster for South Haven School District and for Comanche County School District. She substitutes at South Haven, and works at Beehive Quilt Shop to support her quilting habit. She also is the office secretary for the Community Church.

Together, they have four children. Mark Zimmerman, and his wife, Kim, live in Lee’s Summit, Mo. Mark is a civil engineer with Burns McDonnell. They have three children. Jill Zimmerman lives in Manhattan, Kan., and is the president and CEO of Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership.

Travis Theurer and his wife, Heidi, live a mile or so from Jay and Glennis. Travis farms and raises cattle and show pigs. They have three children. Ty Theurer and his wife, Jennifer, live in Coldwater. Ty is the superintendent of the Comanche County School District – South Central Schools.

They have two boys.

Following the grandkids’ activities keep Jay and Glennis busy – from livestock shows to style revues to sports events to music events. And they wouldn’t have it any other way. Life has been good to the Zimmermans, and they would like to thank the Fair Board for the honor of being chosen 2020 Sumner County Fair Grand Marshals.

Page 8 | American Pride - County Wide

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

History of the Sumner County Fair

By Toni Wolff Complied from minutes of meetings

The earliest records around are from 1915, when the Caldwell Poultry and Pet Stock Association was in existence.

In 1926, this association met to organize and prepare to charter a fair. At this time, E.D. Luder was the president and L.A. Perry was the secretary.

All the necessary paperwork was completed and, in 1927, the Sumner County Fair Association was chartered by the State of Kansas. Persons wishing to become members bought membership certificates at $5 each. Eighty-six individuals and businesses became the charter members.

The first Fair dates were set for Oct. 2628, 1927. The early Fairs were held by the Chikaskia River, north of Caldwell at the Highway 44-Highway 49 junction.

Records do indicate that in the 1940s, the association bought and leased lots and started some buildings.

Officers and early history In 1927, E.D. Luder was president and L.A. Perry was secretary. In 1928, S.W. Gile was president and J.A.B. Oglevee was secretary. In 1929, E.A. Detriech served as president and Oglevee was secretary.

1930s: Presidents were Detriech, B.F. Wynn, Earl Parsons, K.K. McDonald.

B.B. Terwilliger, Glenn Teel and Ralph VanCamp. Secretaries were Oglevee and George Murry. O.V. Williams was the crop reporter for many years.

1940s: Presidents were L.A. Perry, L.M. Snyder, James Corzine, Fern Frazier, Charles Overall and Jack Young. Secretaries were Murry, Frazier and Overall.

1950s: No records were found for 1951-1965. However, it is known that during this time, Doyle Stiles and Oscar Craig served as presidents of the association, and George Reeder and Merle Gile served as secretaries.

1960s: James Buresh served as president from 1966 to 1970, with Paul Scribner and Jan Snowden as secretaries.

1970s: Charles Medley served as pres-

Sam Eldredge enjoys the petting zoo at the 2000 Sumner County Fair.

ident during 1971, and then Jim Buresh served as president from 1972 through 1976. Mike Reager became the Fair president in 1977 and served until 1982.

Jan Snowden continued as secretary until 1975. Claudia Ehlers served as secretary through 1978. Toni Wolff began serving as secretary in 1979 and still holds that position.

1980s: Carson Ward became Fair president in 1983 and served through 1991.

1990s: Rob Johnston was president from 1992 to 1994. J.E. Cochran was president 1995-96. Glennis Zimmerman was president from 1997 to 2000.

2000s: Don Patton served as president

from 2001 through 2006. Shane Schmidt was president 2007-08. In 2009, Don Patton and Kathey Schmidt were co-presidents. Kathy Schmidt became president in 2010 and still holds that position.

Improvements in the Fair site In 1947, Malen Reck was hired to build three sheds at $400 each, and $1,850 was spent on materials.

The original horse barn was sold in 1975, and the remaining sheds were sold in 1979 so that the current livestock facility could be built.

The current livestock facility has seen improvements through the years. A lean-

to was added on the south side. A permanent cement floor was added for the hogs and sheep. Wash racks were built.

Rewiring was done to accommodate the blow dryers and fans. Yearly updates continue.

In 1973, the current exhibit building behind was constructed, and in 1984 the newest building was constructed.

Some of the table risers and booth frames used today were designed and built in the late 1960s or early 1970s by Mart Kloefkorn, a longtime member of the Fair board. His design for table risers was a great improvement over cement blocks and boards.

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy Changes in Fair format Many changes have taken place through the years. In the 1960s, the Czech Chapter began helping with the Fair, and the first Czech diner was served in 1973. The Sumner County Wheat Show became a part of the Fair in 1973, as did the first Fair associated with junior livestock auctions.

A crafts department was added in 1976, and the art and photography department was split into two departments in 1980.

In the 1970s, two Fair dances were held – one country and one polka.

In 1981, the Sumner County 4-H Fair was combined with the Sumner County Fair. In 1992, the fair association went to a newspaper tabloid format for the Fair book.

For several years now, there has been a free concert sponsored by county merchants on Saturday night. In 2001, the fair association stopped having KFDI handle the concert and undertook this endeavor themselves.

Other events that have been part of the Fair throughout the years are the car raffles, booster trips to promote the Fair, livestock shows and judging contests, talent shows, queen contest, Fair dances,

Sumner County Fair Keepsake the alumni football games, tractor pulls, kid’s day events, and the Border Queen Fair Run. In addition, the fair association now owns the old rodeo arena (purchased in 2005) on the west edge of Caldwell and has converted it into a race arena where Figure 8 races and the annual Demolition Derby are held.

In 2006, the fair association – with a matching grant from KanOkla – had a set of portable bleachers constructed. These bleachers are used frequently at community events.

In 2010, the Fair was changes from a Wednesday-Saturday event to a Friday-Sunday event, and a community church service was added. In 2012, the Junior Livestock Auction became a video auction held in the Community Building.

One activity remains today as it was in 1927 – the entering and judging of exhibits. Also, the Fair is still the time of year to visit with old friends and make new friends, enjoy local talent and performers from afar, eat cotton candy and all those Fair goodies, especially the kolaches.

County fairs are a part of our heritage to be passed on to future generations.

American Pride - County Wide | Page 9

Workers at the Kolache Kitchen keep busy at the Fair in 2000. Estimates are that the kitchen sold 8,000 kolaches.

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Page 10 | American Pride - County Wide

The Nostalgia Nook & Corner Cafe Jr.

Sumner County Fair Keepsake Sumner County Farm Bureau Association 600 N. Washington PO Box 605 Wellington, KS 67152 (620) 326-5161 sumnerfb@kfb.org

We support 4-H and FFA! Good luck exhibitors!

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Have fun at the Fair!

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Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

Antons help plan Czech Day

It takes a heap of planning to get ready for Czech Day in Caldwell, and for the last two years it has been held, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Anton have had a big part in the successful arrangements for the affair. They are quick to give plenty of credit, though, with their many committees who assist with the big event, and to the wonderful cooperation with the Fair Association and the merchants.

When Caldwell Czechs Chapter No. 1 was organized two years ago, there was a big amount of prospective members and they chose as their president Frank Anton. When they met a year later to name officers, he was asked to remain at the helm and he accepted.

Mr. Anton said he had lived in the Caldwell and Bluff City area from the time he came to this country in 1913 from the homeland, Czechoslovakia.

Mrs. Anton was born in the Bluff City area.

– Caldwell Messenger, Sept. 11, 1969.

Mr. and Mrs. Anton are shown in native costume as they stopped to listen to entertainment at the Main Street platform en route to join the parade group.

Frye was a major Fair supporter

Editor’s note: This story appeared in the 1994 Sumner County Fair Guide.

Raymond Frye was a teacher, county agent and banker.

County Extension agent Gerald Levalley says, “Mr. Frye was an extremely generous benefactor to 4-H and Extension through scholarships to 4-Hers, contributions to Rock Springs Ranch 4-H Center, and to the Raymond Frye Complex.”

Longtime friend and Frye’s attorney, Robert Cobean, remembers that, “He was rather quiet in his ways, but when he saw a need he offered to help finance it.”

These statements tell only a little of Frye the man.

He was a man of major accomplishments. His credits are outstanding. For example, at Kansas State University alone he was a member of Phi Alpha Phi (cum laude), Alpha Zeta, Gamma Sigma Delta, Phi Kappa Delta, Epsilon Sigma Phi, and was honored for his outstanding service

to Kansas 4-H. Frye taught in country schools in Sumner and Harper counties. Later, he taught in Norton County Community High School, and South Haven and Medicine Lodge high schools.

His awards came from many different sources. His activities included efforts for education, youth, church, 4-H, state and federal employees, chamber of commerce, work with the South Central Mental Counseling Center, and the list goes on.

Those who knew him best remember more the man, the individual, than they do the honors and accolades heaped upon him by his contemporaries.

It is with genuine depth of feeling and gratitude that the Board of Directors of the Sumner County Fair offer this dedication to a former Sumner County Fair Association chairman as well as one of the best friends 4-H and Sumner County has ever had as we remember Raymond Frye.

Page 12 | American Pride - County Wide

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

County’s original fair started in 1881

By Travis Mounts Times-Sentinel Newspapers

The history of a county fair in Sumner County goes back more than 100 years, and predates the current Sumner County Fair Association that was organized in 1927.

The Sumner County Agricultural and Mechanical Association organized a Sumner County Fair in Wellington starting in 1881.

A poster archived by the Kansas State Historical Society advertises the second annual Fair, starting on Wednesday, Aug. 30. That poster, however, does not include a year. August 30 fell on a Wednesday in both 1882 and 1893.

But other posters clearly show that the third annual fair was held Oct. 10-13, 1883, and that the fourth annual Sumner County Fair took place Sept. 17-20, 1884.

The 1882 poster advertised a five-day affair. It boasted of the finest half-mile track in Kansas, which hosted trials of speed each day plus pacing, trotting and running.

Train fairs were half-price. The president was Geo. R. Fultz, and the secretary was I.N. King.

The 1883 fair advertised $5,000 in premiums. That would be the equivalent today of nearly $127,000.

According to that year’s poster, “A good band will be on the grounds to enliven the occasion with music.” James Holland was president, H.C. St. Clair was vice president, I.N. King was secretary and L.K. Myers was treasurer.

In 1884, St. Clair was president and King remained secretary. The list of attractions was similar to prior years.

The 1891 fair was held Aug. 25-28, and again promoted the “best of racing” as well as a floral hall that promised to “abound in rich specimens of woman’s handiwork.”

It was not clear from the state historical archives online how many years that fair ran.

What is clear, however, is that the history of county

A poster promoting the second annual Sumner County fair in 1882, held in Wellington.

fairs in Sumner County goes back nearly as far as the county itself, which was founded on Dec. 20, 1870. That means the county was no more than 11 years old when its first county fair was held.

In a Sept. 1, 1969, article in the Caldwell Messenger, Raymond Frye shared some history of the first Sumner County Fair, organized in Wellington in 1880. His information came from the Sumner County Press in its Nov. 14, 1880, edition.

The fairgrounds were at the present site of the Westridge Addition, the 1969 Messenger story states. The March 1887 issue of the Sumner County Press told of selling the fairgrounds to a Wichita syndicate. The Chikaskia Club held a fair at a location eight miles north of Caldwell in 1925. The fair was moved to Caldwell in 1927, and Caldwell has been the place for the Sumner County Fair since that date.

According to Frye, fairs also were held in Oxford, Belle Plaine, Argonia, Conway Springs and South Haven.

The current Sumner County Fair has been held continuously for 93 years. That’s a record that’s hard for many fairs to beat, especially because a number of fairs were not held during World War II. In neighboring Sedgwick County, for example, the current Sedgwick County Fair marked its 75th Fair last year, but that was over the course of 80 years. That fair (not the first county fair in Sedgwick County) was held in 1940 and 1941, and then missed several years during and immediately after World War II. The 2020 Sedgwick County Fair has been cancelled, the first time that fair has not happened since the 1940s.

County fairs in Kansas that have cancelled include the Cowley County Fair, Leavenworth County Fair, and the Central Kansas Free Fair in Abilene. The Wyandotte County Fair has cancelled open class shows and events, as well as entertainment and vendors; only 4-H exhibits and competitive events will take place.

Other fairs are operating on adjusted schedules or are still up in the air.

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

A county fair was held in Wellington for more than a decade in the late 1800s. From left, these posters are from the fairs in 1883, 1884 and 1891.

American Pride - County Wide | Page 13

Page 14 | American Pride - County Wide

Proud Supporter of 4-H!

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

History bites

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Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

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Snippets from previous years’ news at the Sumner County Fair

Jim Buresh, Sumner County Fair Association president, told the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce that the Fair and Czech Day, held in conjunction with the Fair, are two remaining events the community has and that if we let this die, it will be a step backward. He pointed out that Conway Springs and South Haven have let their fairs drop and that should make the official Sumner County Fair stronger than ever.

– Caldwell Messenger, Aug. 18, 1969 Czech Day, held last year in conjunction with the Sumner County Fair, proved such a success that it is being repeated this year. The Czech celebration will be held on Saturday, Sept. 6, along with other activities planned for the Fair.

Czech visitors are expected from cities in Kansas, Oklahoma and Nebraska. Many of the Czechs will wear native costumes.

– Caldwell Messenger, Aug. 25, 1969 The Sumner County Fair Association will have the new livestock building with sales ring ready for the Fair in Caldwell, Sept. 6, 7 and 8, according to Mike Reager, Fair president, and Mrs. Toni Wolff, secretary. The building is 50 feet x 100 feet, with a 24-foot lean-to on each end. The building is lcoated south of the Fair Building, in line with the Community Building. It will serve as housing for entries in the Fair’s livestock department, adult and junior divisions.

– Caldwell Messenger, Aug. 13, 1979 The hobbies exhibition in the north room of the new Detrick building is attracting its share of Fair visitors. The display of butterflies, consisting of 7,230 specimens, under the direction of Dr. J.E. Turner, is owned by Turner and his brother-in-law, Don B. Stallings. Turner and Stallings have captured the entire collection, representing around 800 different varieties, on butterfly hunts in various parts of the United States and Mexico, with the exception of those for which they have traded other specimens. The

collection contains more than one-half of the 1,360 known butterfly varieties in the United States.

– Caldwell Messenger, Sept. 11, 1941 The Sumner County Fair in Caldwell was officially opened Thursday afternoon two o’clock with ceremonies at the grandstand on Main Street. Cooler than usual weather greeted the large crowd of fairgoers who were on hand. An early morning rain brought cooler weather, in comparison to many opening days when temperatures ranged from 100 to 117 degrees. Fielding Norton, Sr., was master of ceremonies. He introduced the Rev. John Maier, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, who gave the invocation.

The Caldwell High School band, directed

by Daniel Zollars, with John Ward as drum major, played “The Star Spangled Banner.” Jack McGee, Scoutmaster, was in charge of members of Troop No. 320, who helped with the flag-raising ceremonies. Mayor Aubra Pierce and Fair Board president Glenn Johnson extended the official welcome.

– Caldwell Messenger, Sept. 3, 1959 Twenty-two towns in Kansas and Oklahoma will be visited by the Sumner County Fair boosters from Caldwell on Thursday and Friday, Aug. 25 and 26.

Short programs will be given at each town. Vocal selections will be given by a group of young ladies and instrumental numbers are planned. The committee would like to have 100 cars in the caravan each day, with boosters in each car to help advertise the Fair for Sept. 1-3.

Those who have gone on previous trips report good times. Verne F. Ryland, local sign artist, has agreed to paint Fair advertising on the cars.

– Caldwell Messenger, Aug. 8, 1949 The Fair committee, in order to accommodate those who cannot attend the Fair except in the evening, have decided to have the exhibits open until 10 o’clock each evening on Wednesday and Thurs-

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy day, the first and second days of the Fair.

The fair ends at 5 o’clock on the evening of Oct. 15.

– Caldwell Messenger, Oct. 8, 1926 The Fair is to open Sept. 18 with a wide variety of exhibits in all departments, where superintendents have been working to assemble in Caldwell the finest of south-central Kansas’ livestock, grain, fruits and vegetables, domestic arts and crafts, and hobbies. This year, the opening day of the Fair will be the background for the annual Old Settlers’ reunion, sponsored by the Caldwell Half Century Club and the Daily Messenger.

– Caldwell Messenger, Sept. 9, 1940 Several youngsters who wish to enter dogs in the dog show are uncertain whether their dogs have pedigrees or not.

The entertainment committee chairman has therefore stated that if any of the youngsters are in doubt as to the breeding of their dogs, to enter them anyway and take a chance.

– Caldwell Messenger, Oct. 7, 1926 The Caldwell High School band officially opened the Sumner County Fair in Caldwell Thursday afternoon promptly at one o’clock. Hundreds of persons from Sumner County and Grant County thronged near the grandstand to hear the 41-piece band play three numbers under the direction of Melvin Zack. Mayor A.V. Harter gave the official welcome to the Fair visitors. He said several had asked him if he was going to give the key to the city to fairgoers. “We gave you the key to the city last year, and since that time we have lost the key to the city, to the community building, and city hall,” he declared.

– Caldwell Messenger, Sept. 1, 1949

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

American Pride - County Wide | Page 15

Queens, music, dances, Kolaches, parades, bands, exhibits, carnival and people – that spells Sumner County Fair time in Caldwell Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Sept. 4, 5 and 6. And this year’s Fair can be the greatest if all local residents and merchants continue to cooperate as they have been doing the past several years, according to Jim Buresh, Fair president. Committees have been working diligently to make true the Fair’s slogan, “The Fastest Growing Fair in South Central Kansas.” Gov. Robert Docking, Sen. Bob Dole, and District Judge John Potucek will be some of the dignitaries present.

– Caldwell Messenger, Sept. 1, 1969 No one will need to remain at home this evening to hear President Roosevelt speak. His address will be broadcast through the facilities of the public address system, immediately following the blackout. The blackout will start promptly at 7:55 and will end at 8:00 o’clock. The president’s address will immediately follow and will last 25 minutes.

– Caldwell Messenger, Sept. 11, 1941 With “bombs bursting in air,” Caldwell last night performed its version of a European blackout, sirens and all. The spectacle, under the direction of Bill Jayroe, proved to be immensely popular with the Fair crowd, with its colorfulness and originality. Following a patriotic number by the local high school band, the city was plunged into darkness after the warning siren had sounded. Plane motors roared, the report of small arms was next heard, and finally the boom of cannon. Flares and fireworks lit up the sky over the business district. Five minutes after the warning siren, the all clear signal was heard, and lights were once more turned on.

– Caldwell Messenger, Sept. 11, 1941

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Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Page 16 | American Pride - County Wide

Leave the State Fair alone

Hartley Fish Farm Catfish • Small & Large Mouth Bass Blue Gill • Blue Gill Hybrid • Red Ear • Crappie Walleye • Trout • Grass Carp Fat Head Minnows • Gumosi Minnows (Mosquito Eating Larvae Minnow)

Kingman, KS (620) 532-3093

In 1990, there was talk of moving the Kansas State Fair from September to August. The Sumner County Fair was opposed to such a move, and voiced its dissent in a Feb. 14 letter to Robert A. Gottschalk, the general manager of the state fair.

“Firstly, changing the date would necessitate the changing our our county fair dates (the second week of August), and we have enough problems now finding a carnival and working around local school events. Secondly, changing the date would eliminate some exhibits such as those fruits and vegetables that mature in late summer. Thirdly, changing the date would eliminate some high school bands from participating in the band contest since school would not be in session.

Our local school bands enjoy spending a day at the fair, and this is the only way some of our children get to go to the fair.

Fourthly, changing the date could inter-

The Sumner County Fair a great time to get together!

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fere with summer farm work in the rural communities. Fifthly, early August weather is usually hot and not too comfortable to be out in. The list of reasons could go on and on!!”

The letter encouraged the Kansas State Fair to work with school boards to set aside one day during the week of the state fair for school children to attend, noting that taking part in the Kansas State Fair is an educational experience.

“We can see NO valid reason for changing the date,” the letter concluded.

The Kansas State Fair continues to be held in early September.

Chartering a new Fair

When notary public F.L. Fisk signed the Sumner County Fair charter on July 22, 1927, it made official the nonprofit corporation known as the Sumner County Fair Association and helped create one of the longest-running county fairs in Kansas. The original charter was dated June 1, 1927.

The original charter was for 50 years, meaning that a half-century later the Fair would need to be re-chartered...or it would cease to exist as a lawful entity.

On June 1, 1977, a new charter was signed. The second time should be the final time, as the new charter authorizes forever the corporation’s existence and its authority to conduct

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy business.

The new charter was signed by fair association president William Reager and secretary Claudia Ehlers.

The cost of a Fair

In 1940, the total disbursements paid for prizes and entries was $1,314. This is according to a treaurer’s report provided to J.C. Mohler, Secretary of the Kansas State Board of Education, with a letter dated Dec. 14, 1940.

The breakdown of paid awards was as follows: Horses and mules – $205.50.

Cattle – $286.00.

Sheep – $70.00 Swine – $138.00.

Poultry – $91.00.

Farm products – $88.00.

Boys’ and girls’ club work – $132.00.

Other departments – $303.00.

The 1940 Sumner County Fair was held Sept. 18-20, and drew an estimated attendance of 10,000 people.

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Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

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Proud Supporter of the Sumner County Fair! Good luck to all participants!

PFCU is proud to support the Sumner County Fair!

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Membership open to anyone who lives, works or worships in Sumner County.

American Pride - County Wide | Page 17

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Page 18 | American Pride - County Wide

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

ABOVE: The winners of the 2013 Kiddie Parade.

RIGHT: A club booth from the 1967 Sumner County Fair.

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Sumner County Fair Keepsake

American Pride - County Wide | Page 19

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Page 20 | American Pride - County Wide

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

Rolling pin contest

The rolling pin contest at the Sumner County Fair in 1939 almost drew more attention from women fairgoers than any other entertainment feature of the Fair. Mrs. Etta Falkenberg, at the extreme right in the picture, won first prize with a mighty throw of 69 feet and 9 inches. Second place winner was Mrs. T.A. Youree, next to Mrs. Falkenberg, with a throw of 63 feet 1 inche. Mrs. Chas. Truhlar, third from the right, was third, throwing the pin 62 feet 3 inches, and Mrs. J.E. Jarvis with a throw of 57 feet 3 inches placed fourth. Wm. Stover sponsored the contest. Taking fifth and sixth places, respectively, were Mr.s Bob Vanderpool, second from the left, and Mrs. Millie Foster, extreme left. They threw the rolling pin 57 feet 1 inch and 56 feet 1 inch, respectively.

Don’t get stuck on the side of the road headed to the Fair! Give us a call!

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Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

American Pride - County Wide | Page 21

2019 Sumner County Junior Livestock Auction Buyers List Alan Campbell Al’s Automotive Anthony Farmers Cooperative Auburn Salon Bank of Commerce & Trust Co. Bennett Agency Blubaugh Farms Bluestem Insurance Group Brian & Carol Balzer Buddy Curry - Cowley College Caldwell Livestock Market Cochran Real Estate & Auction Community National Bank & Trust Conway Bank Craig & Melissa Meeker David Troutman Doggie Do’s Dorothy Dvorak Double J Farms Doug & Dana Koehler Dustin & Missy Atkins Fabiolas Fairbanks Equipment Family Hair Parlor Farm Credit of Enid Farmers & Ranchers Livestock Farmer’s Coop - Belle Plaine/ Conway Springs Farmers Grain - Caldwell Branch Fleming Feed & Grain Foley Equipment Garrett VanZant Gary & Gayla McDonald Gary & Karla Davis Gary & Toni Wolf Gary Theurer Gaston’s LLC Gates Family Sales Gene Turek Grain Bin Liquor

Greg & Lacy Turek Gwen Stalcup DDS Harold A Small, DDS PA Harris Ranch Hawkins Services LLC Heinen Brothers Ag Chemical Hillman Sales & Auction Impact Bank Jack & Darlene Reimer James & Kay Ryan Jay & Glennis Zimmerman Jay & Sharon Taton Jean & Richard Gordon Jeff Swanson Farm Bureau Jerry Lucas Jessica Lucas Jim & Dawn Metzinger Jim & Kathy VanZant Jim Quillin Jimmy & Jennifer Brown Joe Church John Schmidt & Sons John T & Lavona Baker Josh Lee Justin Campbell KanEquip Company Kelle Oil & Tire Service Kelly Basinger Ken & Rhonda Fitzpatrick Kevin & Lori Fitch Kneedle & Thread L & R Enterprises Laas Lambs Larry & Joyce Reynolds Larry & Louise Lee Larry Clark Leo & Michelle Schiltz Leon & Karen Gerberding Linda Stewart Lucind Wood Luke & Amy Theurer Marcus & Melinda Neal Marlin & Sharon Mason Matt & Lea Theurer Meeker Farms Megan Cook Neal Balzer Nina Ward Oxford Saw & Mower P & K Equipment P & B Insurance Agency Pacey-Goodrum Chiropractic Pam Lungren Parkey Sharpening Service Peggy Lamm

Pioneer Seeds Priarieland Partners, Inc. - Anthony Priarieland Partners, Inc. - Wichita Priest Farms Primarily Plants & Floral Progressive Ag Coop - Wellington Branch Raber Ford RCB Bank - Wellington Branch RCB Bank - Winfield Branch Red Feather Boutique Rep. Kyle Hoffman Richard & Shirley Theurer Rod C White, PA Ron & Shari VanZant Ryan & Carmen Altendorf Samantha Taton Schmitz Farms Scoular Company Shear Beauty Salon & Boutique Shoffner Farms SK Triple J Farms South Haven Booster Club South Haven LP South Haven Pork Producers Steve & Mary Meeker Steven & Kalli Nicholson Stock Exchange Bank Strnad Land & Cattle Sumner-Cowley Electric Cooperative Susan & Gary Johnson Susan’s Portrait Designs The Dore Grill and Bar The Insurance Guys Theurer Auction & Realty Tim & Jill Turek Travis & Heidi Theurer Vintage Bank Kansas Wellington Animal Clinic Wheat Country Pheasant & Quail Forever Wheatland Electric Wolf Farms

Page 22 | American Pride - County Wide

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

From the Oct. 10, 1947, Caldwell Daily Messenger:

Fair closes as most successful ever held Biggest and best in exhibits, in amusements and in attendances, Sumner County Fair ends last night

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The biggest and best fair ever held in Caldwell, attended by the largest crowds, is the record hung up by the Sumner County Fair, which closed a three-day session last night.

Many impartial observers said that the number and quality of exhibits surpassed any county fair they had ever seen, and a few of the most enthusiastic said that some departments excelled the state fair.

Those who attended, and there were thousands every afternoon and evening, found no dull time on hand, for there was something doing every minute. The crowds were always well-behaved and were apparently well pleased with the efforts being made to please them.

A great deal of permanent good will resulted from the showing of fine exhibits, and every farmer in the vicinity, and every housewife in the community will be stimulated to better production and methods, as a result of the fair.

Perhaps the most pleasing feature of the fair was the hearty response received by officers and superintendents by whoever was called upon to help. There was much hard work to perform, but it was made easier by the willing co-operation of helpers. Even the weather man cooperated by withholding the much-needed rain until after the close of the fair.

The closing feature was the Hallowe’en celebration, efficiently handled by the

Caldwell Public Schools. Hundreds of people were in uniform and there was much competition for the prizes.

The hog section of the fair was represented in the parade by the Grand Champion Duroc boar, owned by J.F. Larimore and Sons of Ashton; and the grand champion Duroc sow owned by Harold Baxter of Arkansas City.

Historical parade wonderful One of the most impressive and beautiful sights of the Sumner County Fair was the school historical pageant yesterday afternoon. Sixteen different representations of events in the history of this American national were shown, each one depicting their event in such a manner as to make the judges wish they were spectators. The fair board aided the judges when they agreed to give first prizes to two floats.

First money of $25.00 was not divided but the whole amount was given to each winning school. Again in the fourth place, the judge asked for aid and she was allowed to give three fourth-place ribbons.

So interesting were all the floats and representations that it was difficult to keep the crowd back while the judging was in progress. In addition to being an interesting feature of the entertainment of the fair, the floats passed in review much like an open history book reviewed before the spectators.

Conway Springs Star/Argonia Argosy

Sumner County Fair Keepsake

Figure 8 Race

8 p.m. Friday, August 14 Sumner County Fair Race Arena

Entry Fee: $40 day of event Feature race: st 1 prize: $600 & plaque | 2nd: $400 | 3rd $200 | 4th $100 | 5th $50.00 Cruiser and women’s races running and payout contingent on number of entries.

For information call race chairman Scott York - 620-845-2561 or 620-845-6557 For rule information call Nathaniel Zulkoski - 316-619-9034

GATE ADMISSION (admission gate opens at 6 pm) Adults - $8 | Ages 6-12 - $6 | Ages 5 & under Free $1 off admission with Sumner County Fair Button General admission bracelets good for Demo Derby gate price reduction! Save them and come back Saturday!

Pit passes - $12.00 - no discount

Children under 16 MUST be accompanied by an adult to be in the pits.

Insurance dictates that anyone of any age in pits MUST have a pit pass!

Children 12 & under - $10 when accompanied by adult Charge for coolers: $5 for small, $10 for medium, $15 for large.

Coolers will be tagged. Double charge for untagged coolers.

Concessions available Sponsored by Sumner County Fair Association - NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS-

American Pride - County Wide | Page 23

43rd Annual Demolition Derby 8 p.m. Saturday, August 15 Sumner County Fair Race Arena

Entry Fee: $40 on day of event

Payout contingent on number of cars.

25 or more cars: $1000, $650, $400, $150, $75 Less than 25 cars: $800, $400, $200, $100, $50 (Heat winners are last two cars running. No payout to Heat winners) For information call Scott York - 620-845-2561 or 620-845-6557 For rule information call Nathaniel Zulkoski - 316-619-9034

GATE ADMISSION (admission gate opens at 6 p.m.)

Adults - $8; ages 6-12 - $6; 5 and under free

$1 off admission with Sumner County Fair Button

Adults attending Figure 8 race on Aug. 16 who paid general admission and return for demo derby Aug. 17 and still have their arm band will be admitted for $7; ages 7-12 for $5.

Pit passes - $12.00 - no discount

Children under 16 MUST be accompanied by an adult to be in the pits.

Insurance dictates that anyone of any age in pits MUST have a pit pass!

Children 12 & Under - $10 when accompanied by adult Charge for coolers: $5 for small, $10 for medium, $15 for large.

Coolers will be tagged. Double charge for untagged coolers.

Concessions available Sponsored by Sumner County Fair Association - NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS-