The Beginning of the Fairs in New Brunswick

History
Of The New Brunswick
Fairs and Exhibitions Association

As far back as ancient times trades people exhilarated the buying and selling of their wares by exhibiting them well. King Ahasuerus, from the book of Esther, wished to show his riches and the greatness of his domain, so he called all his people from India to Ethiopia to a great festival.
The prophet Ezekiel tells of the great fairs of Tyre, a city on the coast of Lebanon. Here they traded mules, horses, honey, wheat, iron, tin, silver and lead.
As the Romans conquered new countries, they encouraged markets and fairs to help introduce their way of civilization. The Greeks went one step further with their fairs by introducing athletic events.
During the period of the Middle Ages small towns and villages throughout Europe regularly held fairs. The fairs were organized by the local Lords, complete with rules, regulations and fees that were good for all.
Since the time of Alfred the Great, England has become well known for its fairs. Some of the most noted were the St. Bartholomew at Smithfield (London) from the year 1102, St. Giles’ Fair at Winchester (Southampton); in 1211 the Southbridge Fair (Cambridge) began. The St. Bartholomew and Southbridge Fair were being staged until the first half of the century, and the Lee Horse Fair, held in Yorkshire was held annually for more than 600 years.
These fairs or markets were their showcases for trade and celebration for special occasions. Over time they evolved to include entertainers, competition and contests. It became the places to be to exhibit your fine line of livestock, and buyers came from far and wide. The governments, at all levels, realized the great educational value that these fairs had and set up their own exhibits to inform the farmers of the latest and best techniques to use for production.
“Agricultural Fairs have been referred to as the show window of agriculture. If the show window is to present the best of the industry, the window dressing requires change and the emphasis must reflect the value of agriculture to our Province and make the consuming public aware of the excellence of New Brunswick farm products. Fairs and Exhibitions are an ideal medium through which to display, promote products and ideas.”
Fairs in New Brunswick started out unofficially in the early 1920’s with the Keswick Agricultural Fair. This fair was just outside of Fredericton, up on Keswick Ridge. It first started out as a community activity, with great interest and most all of the community was involved. As time went on it grew into an agricultural fair. The Keswick Agricultural Fair continued on into the 1950’s. By then the early volunteers had aged, and younger recruits were hard to find, therefore; the Keswick Agricultural Fair ceased to be.
At one time there was a fair in St. Stephen called the St. Stephen Agricultural Fair representing Charlotte County. Over a period of time interest dwindled, as well as agricultural activity and it ended.
One of the largest fairs was in the northeastern area called the Bathurst Agricultural Fair, representing Gloucester County. But it ceased operating in the early 1960’s due to lack of volunteers and they could not finance the hiring of people to manage the exhibition. When this fair ceased there was a group of interested people in Saint-Isidore that wanted to develop an agricultural fair. They took the chapter from Bathurst and started a fair in Saint-Isidore.
Just outside of Fredericton, in Douglas Field they had an agricultural fair, which was strictly a livestock show. This fair went from the early 30’s to the mid 40’s. During the late 40’s the Douglas Field Fair got moved to Fredericton Exhibition.
A small one-day agricultural fair that was recognised by the government was the Lock Lomond Fair located in the Saint John area. This little fair existed from the early 30’s to the early 60’s, and it too ceased to be when volunteers could not be found so they gave up their chapter.




In the early years each county was assigned or allowed one fair.
1. The fair in Gloucester County was the Bathurst fair,
2. Northumberland County was the Miramichi Exhibition,
3. Kent County had the Kent County Agricultural Fair,
4. Westmorland County there were two fairs allowed due to the county being so large, and they were the Port Elgin Fair and the Westmorland County Agricultural Fair which operated out of Petitcodiac,
5. Albert County was represented by the Albert County Exhibition,
6. Saint John County was home to the Atlantic National Exhibition,
7. Kings County had the Kings County Agricultural Fair operating from the town of Sussex,
8. York County was represented by the Fredericton Exhibition,
9. Carlton County had the Woodstock Agricultural Fair,
10. St. Basile, the Madawaska Exposition representing the County of Madawaska,


From the early 1940’s till the late 1970’s a one-day meeting was held called the Agricultural Associations Act. Thought it was not officially organized representatives from each fair met in Fredericton, by invitation of the Province of New Brunswick and the Department of Agriculture. In the morning they gave their reports on each individual’s fairs activities, have dinner at noon and then return home.
From these meetings the Provincial Government realized the importance that Agricultural Fairs were to the agricultural industry and an agreement was implemented …………………(when) with the Department of Agriculture. It was called “Canada’s First Agriculture Agreement.” In this agreement a grant of $18,000.00 was divided evenly among all N.B. Fairs.
June 1979 the government took an in depth look at fairs in New Brunswick and desired to get officially organized. By putting a plan in place the fairs would be eligible to get more financial help both Federally and Provincially. This would also allow each fair to become members of the National Exhibition of Fairs, which represented all the fairs across the province. The Province set up a committee of several people to carry out a study of all fairs across the province.

This feasibility study would bring about the changeover from the original policy to a new policy. First the fairs would be broken down into three classifications; A, B and C. Also, in addition to *******

This is the finding of a committee that was appointed in June of 1979 to assess the present and future roles of the New Brunswick Department of Agriculture in the Agricultural Fairs of New Brunswick. The objective of this committee was to meet with the fairs or exhibition management committees, as well as to visit each fair’s events as they were going on during1979. After these meetings the committee reported their observations and offered suggestions for improvement and or up-grading in the future.
NOTE: The committee did not meet with the Fredericton Exhibition management team during this time frame due to them being in the process of management change. Also, the N.B. Provincial Livestock Show was not visited because Robert Colpitts was the chairperson for the committee.
The committee members were made up of government representatives and are as follows:
· Robert M. Colpitts…chairman of the livestock branch.
· Louise Gillis…………home economic branch
· Renald Cormier…….plant industry branch of the dept. of agriculture
· Aurelle Gaudet……..extension branch of the dept. of agriculture
· J. A. Galloway………extension branch of the dept. of agriculture

The list of fairs and their representatives in 1979 were as follows:
· Albert County Exhibition, Albert *Donald Keiver
· Atlantic National Exhibition, Saint John *D.M. Colwell
· Fredericton Exhibition, Fredericton *W.B. Miles
· Kent County Fair, Ste. Marie *Gerard Vienneau
· Kings County Agricultural Fair, Sussex *Melva Hornbrook
· Madawaska Fair, Saint-Basile *Don J. Lajoie
· Miramichi Exhibiton, Chatham *Florence L. Traer
· Provincial Livestock Show, Fredericton *Robert Colpitts
· Queens County Fair, Gagetown *Margaret Coghill
· Stanley Fair, Stanley *Ellen E. Hay
· St. Isidore Fair, St. Isidore *Marie Jeanne Duguay
· Westmorland County Agricultural Fair, Petitcodiac *Janet Olgilvie
· Woodstock Old Home Week, Woodstock *Jean Schriver
The chairman and one other committee member met with the superintendent of Fairs and Exhibitions in Nova Scotia regarding the organization and support of Agricultural Exhibitions in the Province, and they met several times with representatives of the Canada Department of Agriculture. One or more Committee members held informal discussions with N.B. Department of Natural Resources personnel and with representatives of the N.B. Branch of the Canadian Forestry Association.
The results of the assessment that was common to all fairs were:
1. The rapid increase of the cost of running fairs and exhibitions
2. The decreasing number of volunteer workers available
3. The much needed funding to maintain grounds and buildings
4. Inadequate prize money
5. Difficulty in securing judges
6. Difficulty in getting qualified judges and money to pay them
7. The need for a coordinator
8. The lack of policy on Government participation in booth or display area
The point was made consistently that the Department was twenty-five years behind by maintaining the financial assistance at the 1950 level. The committee could not dispute the fact that the present N.B. Canadian Agricultural Fairs Policy was outdated.
When asked to outline aims and objectives of their organizations, the majority of Fair Committees responded in rather vague terms. There were no clear-cut or defined reasons given for staging these events. It was obvious that some large fairs provide continuous employment for one or two employees. The Agricultural sponsorship provides license for sporting and social events and there is, in most cases, a tradition or custom to maintain.
The educational values were certainly not often mentioned nor was it suggested that fairs provided monetary gains for anyone. On the contrary, it seems that the production of these events has become more and more difficult under present circumstances with insignificant gains for anyone, despite increasing attendance.
The very real needs of the Fairs and Exhibitions that were found by the Committee were as follows:
1. There is need for substantial increased financial support.
2. There is need for an active responsible organisation of Fairs and Exhibitions to determine policy and to administer the affairs of such associations.
3. The majority of Fair boards need to clearly establish their objectives.
4. Fair boards need to have active youth group’s representation.
5. The need for workshop sessions for boards should be examined.
6. There is need for a firm policy stating clearly the responsibilities of boards and of Provincial employees.
7. There must be a revision of prize lists to bring them into the 80’s.
8. There must be real and meaningful participation by producer and marketing organizations to “Bring Agriculture Up Front” by displaying and promoting N.B. products through Fairs and Exhibitions.
While a few fairs have closed down, the majority have continued to operate under difficult circumstances. They are deserving of increased support. Changes must be made in Department policy, in management policy, in prize lists, and in programs. In most instances more people and organizations should become involved.
The Committee considers the following recommendations minimum requirements if agricultural Fairs and Exhibitions are to remain a part of the industry and a community function.
Recommendations:
· Cancel the present Canada-New Brunswick Agricultural Fairs Policy as of March 31, 1980.
· Negotiate a new Fairs Policy to become effective April 1, 1980, under which New Brunswick Fairs will be classified as Class A, Class B, and Class C or Winter Fairs.

REQUEST FOR FUNDS UNDER THE 1980 – 81 BUDGET FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
A. Topic
The provision of funds toward the capital cost for proposed agricultural exhibition facilities in New Brunswick.
This would be a joint project involving the Province, the N.B. Fairs and Exhibition Association and other community organizations.
B. Recommended Action
It is recommended that $2,000,000.00 be approved as the Province’s share toward the capital cost of these facilities.
It is further recommended that the facilities be used as community multi-purpose wherever possible.

C. Background
Agriculture Fairs & Exhibitions in the Province lack facilities that are suitable for shows, exhibitions, sales and community use. While there is a great deal of interchange between the agricultural activities and associations in the rural areas the proposed facilities could accommodate many segments of society in the community.
The attached report of the Fairs and Exhibitions Committee indicates that inadequate funding during the past decades had resulted in serious depreciation of buildings and other facilities necessary for modern Agricultural Fair programs.
It is also anticipated that other organizations in t he Community will become involved by making use of the proposed buildings for suitable activities involving recreational and other types of shows. Under such circumstances it is anticipated that additional funding would become available from local participating groups in the community.
In nearly every case New Brunswick Fairs and Exhibition Boards indicated the desire to improve and expand facilities in co-operation with local community groups to provide accommodations for events all year around, but have been hampered by the lack of available funding.
D. Effect of Recommended Action
In addition to the provision of a facility of Fairs and Exhibitions the construction of multiple purpose buildings will provide:
- All-purpose facilities for meetings, seminars for use by the community.
- Would create more interest and attract additional exhibitors and patrons to the Exhibition.
- Would provide an adequate facility for consumer education programs to be featured at Agricultural Fairs.
E. Application of General Guidelines
1. A $2,000,000.00 grant for capital expenditures with no commitment beyond 1980 – 81.
2. As this is a capital project, little or no person-year allocation will be required.
3. Initial economic impact is construction employment with long-term implications on agricultural development.
4. Private sector investment in the area of $2,000,000.00 is anticipated.
F. Financial Considerations
A Provincial contribution of $2,000,000.00 will cover approximately 50% of the total estimated capital costs. Additional necessary funds will be raised locally.
G. Background Documentation
N.B Fairs and Exhibitions Committee Report

AGRICULTURAL FAIRS GRANTS POLICY
OBJECTIVES:
To encourage agricultural fairs or exhibitions on a county or regional basis, so that producers will have an opportunity to display their livestock and other produce in competition with other producers.
An additional fair or exhibition shall be recognized as a county or regional fair only when it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, in consultation with the N.B. Fairs and Exhibitions Association, that:
Said fair is capable of serving and developing exhibitor interest throughout an agricultural area, which at least approaches county proportions. The area in which the said fair proposes to operate is beyond practical reach of an existing recognized county or regional fair.
Should a recognized County or Regional Fair deteriorate in number of exhibitors, in an area served, or in general conduct of its affairs, to the point where the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, in consultation with the N.B. Fairs and Exhibition Association, considers such recognition to no longer have merit, the such fair, after due warning and opportunity given to restore acceptable proportions and /or practices, may be removed from the list of recognized county or regional fairs.
CLASSIFICATION
N.B. Fairs and Exhibitions will be classified according to prize money paid by the Fair or Exhibition in respect of specified exhibits in each of the three years preceding the year, which the application is made and showing that in each of those years the prize money was paid.
1. In the case of the application for a Class A listing, amounted to not less that six thousand dollars ($6,000.00) (prizes for 4-H, livestock, poultry, home economics and crafts).
2. In the case of an application for a Class B listing, amounting to not less than three thousand dollars ($3,000.00) and
3. Class C listing amounted to less than three thousand dollars.


ASSISTANCE
Class A Listing
(a) Will receive 50% of the eligible prize money on Livestock Classifications
(b) 4-H Grant to a maximum of $1,000.00
(c) Judges Grant of $500.00 from Canada Agricultural plus $500.00 from N.B. Department of Agriculture to pay judges
(d) 75% Grant of the first $2,000.00 paid in prize money for utility classes not recognized by Federal regulations and additional grant of 50% prize money in excess of $2,000.00 up to a maximum of $500.00
(e) 50% Grant for permanent improvements or repairs, maximum of $5,000.00
CLASS B LISTING
(a) Will receive 50% of the eligible prize money on livestock Classification in the amount of $3,000.00
(b) 4-H Grant to a maximum of $1,000.00
(c) Judges Grant of $200.00 from Canada Agriculture plus $300.00 from N.B. Department of Agriculture
(d) 75% Grant of the first $2,000.00 paid in prize money on Utility Classes not recognized by Federal regulations and additional grant of 50% prize money in excess of $2,000.00 up to a maximum of $500.00
(e) 50% Grant for permanent improvements or repairs, maximum of $2,500.00
CLASS C LISTING (less than $3,000.00)
(a) A grant of 75% of the first $2,000.00 paid in prize money on utility classes, and additional grant of 50% of prize money in excess of $2,000.00 up to a maximum of $500.00
(b) 4-H Grant to a maximum of $1,000.00
(c) Judges Grant of $500.00
Note: As each Fair or Exhibition applied for the monies that were made available to them, they were given the following forms to fill out: (1) a Fairs & Exhibitions Program Application Form. (2) A Fairs & Exhibitions Project Approval and Claim Form. (3) A Check List.

GRANTS TO FAIRS & EXHIBITIONS
REPORT
April 1, 1980 to date
January 23, 1981
N.B. Livestock Breeders Co-op (Provincial Show) Class A………...$40,000.00
Royal Winter Fair (Grant)………………………………………...………..1,000.00
Turtle Creek Ladies Aid Horse Pull (Grant)…………………………………75.00
Atlantic Winter Fair (Grant)……………………………………….……….2,500.00
Maritime Stock Breeders (Show Grant)………………………………….5,000.00
Woodstock Old Home Week (Class B)………………………..…………2,300.00
Westmorland County Fair (Class B)……………………………………...2,285.00
Miramichi Fair (Class A)…………………………………..……………….2,000.00
Atlantic National Exhibition (Class A)…………………………………….2,000.00
Kings County Fair (Class C)………………………………………………1,592.00
Madawaska Fair (Class C)…………………………………………….…..3,300.00
Aberdeen Angus Regional Show Grant……………………………………311.25
St. Isidore Fair (Class C)…………………………………...…………...…2,537.10
Queens Co. Fair (Class C)……………………………………………..….3,274.25
Hereford Regional Show (Grant)………………………………………….1,056.75
Albert County Fair (Class B)………………………………………………2,300.00
Stanley Fair (Class C)…………………………………………………...…2,200.00
Ste. Marie de Kent Fair (Class B)…………………………………….…..2,000.00
Holstein Regional Show (Grant)……………………………………….……807.75
Fairs & Exhibition Assn. (Grant)…………………………………………….281.80
TOTAL……………………………………………………………………$76,820.90
Not yet paid: Shorthorn Regional Shows
Ayrshire Regional Shows
Not included: payments to Dairy Goat Assn., Fur Farmers Assn., Chinchilla Club and Light Horse Assn.

Federal Grants to N.B. Fairs & Exhibitions
Atlantic National Ex……………………………………….………………$5,457.50
Miramichi Exhibition………………………………………………..………4,465.00
Albert County Fair……………………………………………..……………3,485.00
Kent County Fair……………………………………………...…………….7,499.55
Prov. Livestock Show……………………………………………8,500.00 (approx)
N.B.: Prov. Livestock Show paid of $25,500.00 in operating loans, (mostly from previous years).

· For events that fail to qualify as A or B classification, the Province will provide financial support as follows:
1. A grant of 75% of the first $2,000 paid in prize money on utility classes.
2. An additional grant of 50% of prize money in excess of $2,000 up to a maximum grant of $500.
3. A grant not to exceed $1,000 for 4-H inter-club programs at fairs. (Regulations to be established.)

· A grant not to exceed $500.00 to be used as awards to producer or marketing organizations for staging N.B. products promotions and demonstrations during the fair. (Regulations to be established.)
· A grant by the N.B. Department of Agriculture be made available to agricultural shows not qualifying in the A or B classification, in the amount of $300.00 to assist in acquiring judges is recommended, plus $700.00 for plant maintenance.
· It is the recommendation of this Committee that the one-day regional shows remain the responsibility of the breed association concerned.
· In view of possible decrease in funding as a result of classification it is recommended that the N.B. Department of Agriculture provide a grant in the amount of $5,000 annually for Class A Fairs, $3,000 annually for Class B, and $2,000 for Class C or those not qualifying for A or B grants. Money from this source is to compensate loss of support in Home Economics and other non-utility classes, which are not recognized by present regulations under A, or B fairs policy.

Capital Grants
This committee strongly recommends that a policy of Capital Grants be made available to recognize Agricultural Fair Associations for the purpose of building construction based on livestock loan concepts whereby a major part of the loan is forgivable after a relatively short period of time.
Funds for this part of the program might rightly be found in other departments of government, either/or provincial or federal.



General Findings
During the past twenty or thirty years the majority of fairs have experienced a decline in agricultural entries. The Charlotte County Exhibition at St. Stephen has closed, the Bathurst Exhibition has ceased to operate, and the livestock exhibits at the once highly rated Stanley Fair have disappeared. Woodstock has gone from an Agricultural Exhibition to the Old Home Week program and the Miramichi Exhibition is not attracting the local livestock potential. The Keswick Fair has ceased to operate. While it would be an exaggeration to suggest that the present policy is fully responsible for these developments, certainly a lack of funds plus changing conditions have been definite factors. It is true that the developing fair at St. Isidore will afford an opportunity of exhibiting farm and home produce in that region. It should be noted that the St. Isidore Fair program is going forward because of a special grant made available for building construction. This assistance is not presently available to other fair associations, and others struggling to exist do not accept this special treatment with much good grace. The Committee was interested to learn that the Woodstock people are investigating the possibilities of later dates for their event to accommodate agricultural exhibitors.
Regarding financing, it is of interest to note that Nova Scotia Fairs received a total of $61,753.00 not including $30,700.00 for the Atlantic Winter Fair. Prince Edward Island received $32,500.00 while New Brunswick’s share totalled $24,000.00 for the1976 and 1977 years. This works down to an average of $6861.00 per fair in Nova Scotia, $6,515.00 per fair in Prince Edward Island and $1,847.00 for New Brunswick fairs. Both Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are on the A, B and C Classification.
In many cases, there needs to be a revision of prize lists. For example; the tree fruit industry is not well served by pitiful exhibits of outdated varieties that are unworthy of consideration by judges, yet because they are entered a ribbon is awarded. The apple industry might well consider a display of fruit at major shows, particularly in the non-producing areas of the Province where consumers ‘have been had’ by indiscriminate dealers and peddlers. Here is an opportunity for consumer education on grades, varieties, etc. This idea of ‘product promotion’ at fairs has been suggested and, in most cases, recommended by the Committee. As an example, in the northeast area where the hog industry is being actively promoted, the St. Isidore Fair and perhaps the Chatham should consider featuring a display of pork products. Other aspects could feature pork recipes, demonstrations and barbeques or other programs to inform the public regarding the good value of pork and the value of the industry in the area.
The poultry industry no longer participates in agricultural fairs and perhaps no other group has become more prosperous in recent years. If they are to meet the challenge of consumers, surely the agricultural fair is a natural place to defend the criticism often levelled at the producer and a place to talk food value of eggs and poultry meats.
The entire population of this Province cannot consume the potato crop produced here but surely this major component of agriculture deserves to be brought to the attention of our consumers – consumers who have been rather critical of quality being offered locally.
The Billion Dollar Challenge, a committee of the Maritime Farmers Council, has just issued a booklet on Atlantic Agriculture in which it states: “We have the resources – land, markets, money and people to triple production and make agriculture a billion dollar industry.” In the opinion of this Committee, marketing is a critical aspect of this program and fairs are natural places to advertise and sell the consumer the idea of buying products produced on New Brunswick farms.
The Committee strongly enforces the full participation of commodity groups and marketing boards to tell the increasing number of fair goers the story of New Brunswick agriculture by promoting the products of the industry, which run from apples to zucchini including beef, milk, pork, lamb, wool, butter, potatoes, vegetables, strawberries as well as the breeding stock of the livestock industry.
If it is true that as our advertisement says, quote: “Agricultural Fairs play an important role in bringing farmers and the public together” we should make every effort to insure that the industry is presented in the best possible light through its products. It could be said that the consumer has been all but forgotten except to collect their admission fee.
At the present time and under present programs, the livestock exhibitors make only token efforts to supply the consuming public with information of interest.
The livestock industry should give serious consideration to adding a new and useful dimension to the livestock show by having booths displaying dairy and meat products and by using live consumer broadcasts, consumer information on P.A. systems, demonstrations by home economists or meat graders, by using films s educational tools to enhance and promote the farm products. At some fairs, livestock of top quality, well displayed is providing an opportunity for the general public to have a ‘close-up’ look at the source of many everyday foods. An opportunity for children to touch the big cows, the cute calves, etc. – this is a real public relations program. These efforts must be supplemented with programs as outlined above if exhibition boards and exhibitors consider the fair goer as customers and consumers of the end product.
Changes in Agricultural Shows have been introduced slowly if at all. A review of regulations and prize lists over the past twenty years records few innovations. One major change has been the introduction of the Hayes Formula in the livestock division. This constructive policy was adopted in order to limit the number of head that can be exhibited per breeder and to bring out only animals qualifying in the R.O.P. System. This produced desired results to the point where we now have a few professional circuit riders – a situation that discourages the small-inexperienced livestock owner from competition.
In view of present rural population changes, consideration should also be given to commercial and non-commercial exhibitors in the horticultural divisions. Classes in the home economics department need review and reclassification also.
Department of Agriculture Displays
The department of Agriculture booth or display at 1979 fairs appeared to cause confusion as to purpose, and in come cases, anger among fair management people as they were promised a display only to be disappointed.
1. A booth depicting one phase of New Brunswick agriculture might be considered.
2. Any booth should be attractive, informative, easily understood and of highest quality.
3. Any space used should be paid for at the prevailing rates for commercial space.
4. Final decision should be made only after full discussion with the organizations concerned – Local Fair Boards, Local Department Offices and Headquarters Staff.
5. Judging schools or workshops must have priority at branch level and must be a long-term program.

Staff Assistance
It has been customary for Department of Agriculture staff, District Agriculturist, Livestock Branch staff and others to assist in planning and in the operation of shows, sales, fairs and exhibitions. In the livestock field, great service has been given to breeders for many years by assisting in selecting entries for shows and sales by checking entries at shows by acting as clerks and secretaries. These services are appreciated by the breeders, as they are relieved of the work and expense and often relieved of making difficult decisions. It is recognized that such service is justified when new events are initiated, however, it must be a poor reflection on the ability of staff to be effective in the extension chores of training people to conduct the affairs of their own organization.
Our observations are that too many fair and exhibition managers depend and almost insist on the Department of Agriculture people to conduct the operation of their shows. Many senior 4-H club members could perform most of these chores at fairs that would relieve staff for more important work. Department people could be available for consultation, in some cases for judging and perhaps for demonstrations, etc., but not to be used in Joe-type jobs as cheap labour.
A review of the operations over the past three years, 1977,1978 and 1979, indicates that under present regulations the New Brunswick Provincial Livestock Show, the Atlantic National Exhibition (Saint John) and the Kent County Exhibition (St. Mary’s) would qualify as Class ‘A’ events.
The Miramichi Agricultural Exhibition (Chatham) and the Albert County Exhibition will qualify as Class ‘B’ shows.
The St. Isidore Show and Queens County Fair are very close to qualifying and are expected to become eligible in 1980 or 1981.
The remaining Fairs will require increased financial support from the Province. It is to be noted that the two counties often referred to, as the leading agriculture areas of the Province do not presently qualify under the recommended classification system. These are: Woodstock, Carlton County and Sussex in Kings County.
In order to have the Woodstock event qualify a number of shows and sales will have to be coordinated and combined. In Sussex the infrastructure requires adjustment. These are decisions to me made by the organizations involved.
Emphasis must again be on the Agricultural Exhibit and on matters of interest and concern to the ultimate customer, the consumer.
Positive leadership, firm direction, adequate funding, and cooperation between this Department, Fair Boards and agricultural producer and marketing groups will be needed to again bring agriculture up front at fairs and exhibitions.
“Agriculture, the basis of a nation’s wealth” must not be relegated to a secondary position!

The Recommendation of the Feasibility Study
Re Nullification of Existing Canada / New Brunswick Agricultural Fairs Policy and Recognition of Eligible Fairs
Under the Exhibitions Grants Regulations
It is recommended that the prize money paid in respect to specified exhibits by the fairs for the years 1979, 1978 and 1977 be utilized for fair classification purposes.
It is recommended that effective April 1,1980:
· The existing Canada / New Brunswick Agricultural Fairs Policy be nullified.
· The Maritime Winter Fair be classified as a winter fair.
· The New Brunswick Provincial Livestock Show, the Atlantic National Exhibition and the Kent County Agricultural Exhibition be listed as Class ‘A’ exhibitions.
The Miramichi Agricultural Exhibition and the Albert County Exhibition be listed as Class ‘B’.

The Queens County Fair is quite close to qualifying as a Class ‘B’ exhibition. If the New Brunswick Fairs and Exhibitions Committee had been pre-warned three years ago, that it would be necessary to qualify by the1980 fiscal year, it is thought this exhibition would have insured that prize money in excess of the minimum would have been paid.
Secondly, it is felt that the transition from the current system of allotting financial aid to the New Brunswick Fairs to the system outlined in the Exhibitions Grants Regulations, would be smoother if the Queen’s County Exhibition, being very close to qualifying, is listed as a Class ‘B’ exhibition.
It is recommended that these points be given full consideration and the Queen’s County Exhibition be classified as a Class ‘B’ exhibition.
It is recommended that New Brunswick Department of Agriculture and Rural Development implement a new policy of assistance, which will offer increase financial support for those fairs and exhibitions not qualifying as Class ‘A’, or Class ‘B’.

Committee members Robert Colpitts, and J.A. Galloway who were representing the New Brunswick Department of Agriculture and Rural Development signed this Feasibility Study.
Signing members representing Agriculture Canada were Wayne Douthwrite and _____________________





NEW BRUNSWICK
REGULATIONS 82-55
(This Act was copied from the www.gnb.ca page.)
NEW BRUNSWICK
REGULATION 82-55
Under the
AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATIONS ACT
(O.C. 82-286)
Filed April 1, 1982
Under section 6 of the Agricultural Association Act, the Lieutenant Governor in Council makes the following Regulation:
1 This Regulation may be cited as the Agricultural Fair Associations Regulation - Agricultural Associations Act.
2 In this Regulation
"Act" means the Agricultural Associations Act.
2000, c.26, s.9
3 When fifty or more persons
(a) Petition the Lieutenant Governor in Council for letters patent of incorporation under the Act,
(b) Subscribe and pay not less than fifty dollars before the petition is presented to the Lieutenant-Governor in Council, and
(c) Define the area, which the proposed agricultural fair association intends principally to serve,
The Lieutenant Governor in Council may grant to the persons named in such petition letters patent under the said Act, and the corporate name of such association shall be
4 The petition shall be in Form 1.
5 The petition shall be filed with the Minister who shall present it to the Lieutenant Governor in Council with such report, as he may deem proper.
6 The objects for which an agricultural fair association may be incorporated under the Act shall be to hold an annual agricultural fair in the area specified and to foster correlated promotional projects designed to develop the agriculture of the area.
7 An agricultural fair association incorporated under the Act shall continue to be a corporation and to be entitled to the benefits of the Act and this Regulation only so long as it has a membership of at least fifty and has collected within each financial year of the association the sum of at least fifty dollars in membership subscriptions.
8 Any time it appears to be in the public interest, or when it appears that an association incorporated under the Act is employing powers and privileges conferred upon it by the Act and this Regulations in a manner other than is calculated to promote the interests of agriculture, the Lieutenant-Governor in Council may cancel the letters patent of incorporation of the agricultural fair association, but no letters patent shall be cancelled until the grounds of complaint against the association have been communicated to the secretary of the association and the association has had an opportunity to be heard in its own defence, and the Minister has made a full report thereof to the Lieutenant-Governor in Council.
9 Every agricultural fair association incorporated under the Act shall file with the Minister, within thirty days following its annual meeting, a copy of its audited annual financial statement together with a list of its officers and members and such other information as the Minister may require.
10 Every agricultural fair association shall, as soon as may be after receiving its letters patent, adopt by-laws relating to
(a) Its officers, their election, their duties and the security to be given by them,
(b) The holding of annual and special meetings,
(c) The keeping of accounts,
(d) The holding of exhibitions, and
(e) Such other matters, as the association deems necessary for its good government and the promotion of its objects,
But the by-laws shall not be inconsistent with the Act or this Regulation as amended from time to time and shall not go into operation without the sanction of the Minister.
11 When an agricultural fair association proposes to hold a fair or similar competitive event at which prizes are to be awarded, the proposed prize list shall be submitted to the Minister for approval or amendment before it is circulated to prospective exhibitors or competitors.
12 The funds of an agricultural fair association shall not be used for any purpose other than those specified in the objects of the association except that a portion may be appropriated to defray the annual dues and expenses of representatives to any district or provincial agricultural promotional organization with which it may become affiliated.
13 The annual membership subscriptions levied upon its members by an association shall be fixed by by-law of the association.
14 Regulation 4, Statutory orders and Regulations, 1963 under the Agricultural Associations Act is repealed.

FORM 1
PETITION
(Agricultural Fair Associations Regulation -
Agricultural Associations Act, section 4)
To the Lieutenant-Governor in Council:
The petition of the undersigned respectfully shows:
That your petitioners have severally subscribed the sums set opposite their respective names hereunder, to be applied to the promotion of the objects of a proposed agricultural fair association and have paid the same to, provisional treasurer of the proposed association for which his certificate is attached.
That is provisional president of the proposed association, is provisional secretary thereof and is provisional
Treasurer thereof. That the annual meetings of the said association will be held at.
Dated at, this day of,
A.D
NAME ADDRESS AMOUNT OFSUBSCRIPTION





I have received the foregoing amounts and hold the same for use of the said association when incorporated.

Provisional Treasurer.
N.B. This Regulation is consolidated to June 30, 2000.

AGRICULURAL ASSOCIATIONS ACT
CHAPTER A-5
Agricultural Associations Act
Chapter Outline
Definitions1
agricultural fair association - association de foires agricoles
agricultural society - société agricole
associations - associations
district - région
district farmers association - association régionale d’agriculteurs
Minister - Ministre
Provincial farmers association - association provinciale d’agriculteurs
society - société
specialized agricultural association - association agricole spécialisée
Powers and duties of Minister2
Incorporation of societies and associations3
Existing agricultural societies4
Borrowing powers5
Regulations6
1In this Act
“Agricultural fair association” means an organization of district, county or provincial scope whose purpose is to hold exhibitions of livestock, poultry, agricultural produce and the products of kindred agricultural and homemaking arts;
“Agricultural society” means a community group of farmers organized for the general promotion of agriculture within that community;
“Associations” includes district farmers associations, Provincial farmers association, agricultural fair associations and specialized agricultural associations;
“District” means any portion of the Province defined by the Lieutenant Governor in Council as an agricultural district under this Act;
“District farmers association” means an organization whose function is to co-ordinate the educational, promotional and other non-commercial activities of the various local agricultural organizations operating within a specified district;
“Minister” means the Minister of Agriculture and Aquaculture;
“Provincial farmers association” means an organization constituted as the central co-ordinating agent of the several district farmers associations and of such other agricultural organizations as may from time to time be determined;
“Society” means an agricultural society incorporated under this or any Act relating to agriculture heretofore passed;
“Specialized agricultural association” means an organization of local, district or provincial scope devoted to the improvement and promotion, by education, demonstration or other non-commercial means, of one particular breed or kind of livestock or any other one special phase of agriculture.
R.S., c.5, s.1; 1967, c.38, s.2; 1986, c.8, s.2; 1996, c.25, s.1; 2000, c.26, s.8; 2007, c.10, s.7.
2The supervision and control of the societies and associations and the administration of grants thereto is vested in the Minister.
R.S., c.5, s.2.
3The Lieutenant Governor in Council may
(a) Grant letters patent of incorporation under the Great Seal for the incorporation of:
(i) Agricultural societies;
(ii) District farmers associations;
(iii) A Provincial farmers association;
(iv) Agricultural fair associations;
(v) Specialized agricultural associations;
Which societies and associations so incorporated shall have all the privileges and be subject to all the obligations made incident to corporations by law, with power to acquire and hold real estate to such value as may be limited in the letters patent,
(b) Grant supplementary letters patent of incorporation,
(c) Revoke and cancel the incorporation of any society now existing, or the letters patent or supplementary letters patent of any society or association incorporated under this Act, whereupon the legal title to the property and assets of the society or association shall vest in the Crown who shall convey same as directed by Order in Council;
(d) Suspend the corporate rights and powers of a society or association under its letters patent for such time and under such conditions as he may prescribe.
R.S., c.5, s.3; 1985, c.4, s.2.
4All agricultural societies heretofore established under any Act of the Legislature relating to agriculture subsist and continue as fully and effectually as if they had been incorporated under this Act, subject, however, to the provisions of this Act and to the powers and authorities conferred upon the Lieutenant-Governor in Council by this Act.
R.S., c.5, s.4.
5A society or association incorporated under section 3 is hereby empowered to borrow money to meet current indebtedness and to give its promissory note signed by the president and secretary for such amount as the directors may authorize.
R.S., c.5, s.5.
6The Lieutenant Governor in Council may, by Order in Council, make and prescribe orders, rules and regulations relating to
(a) The organization and incorporation of the societies and associations, and the granting, suspending and revoking of letters patent of incorporation and of supplementary letters patent;
(b) The division or sub-division of the Province into agricultural districts;
(c) The assignment of districts or sub-districts to any society or association;
(d) The objects and purposes of the societies and associations, the conditions of membership therein, the payment of annual dues and subscriptions, the officers thereof, their election, their duties and the security to be given by them, the expenditure of the societies or associations’ funds, the mode and purposes for which same may be made, the holding of exhibitions, the keeping of the accounts, the mode of reporting the transactions of the societies or associations to the Minister and the acquiring and holding of lands for society or association purposes including the erection of buildings;
(e) The payment of provincial grants to societies or associations, the mode and purposes for which the same may be expended;
(f) Generally but not to be restricted by reason of the particularity of the above paragraphs, all matters relating to societies and associations and the government thereof, and the administration of the laws relating to agriculture within the Province.
R.S., c.5, s.6.
N.B. This Act is consolidated to March 2, 2007.








AGRICULTURAL AWARENESS
N.B. Fairs and Exhibition Agricultural Policy
(Note…Federal programs began in the 90’s and were later taken over by the Provincial Department)
Program Objectives
Financial contributions under this program are intended to encourage projects or activities that meet one or more of the following objectives:
1. Public Education on Agriculture….these projects should increase consumer awareness and knowledge of what is involved in the production of agricultural products. These types of projects should result in consumers having a better appreciation of producers needs.
2. Introduction of New Technology/Education…these projects should make agriculture products aware of new technology and /or new procedures that will allow them to become more efficient producers of quality products and therefore more competitive. Projects could include demonstrations, seminars and workshops.
3. Training and Development…these projects should improve the skills and/or abilities of rural people in areas relating to operation and administration of fairs and exhibitions.
4. Entrepreneurial Development…these projects should assist new or expanding producers and agribusinesses in using fairs and exhibitions as a venue to exhibit their products.



















Individual Fair Histories:

Atlantic National Exhibition (ANE)The City of Saint John started out with a small fair in 1818. Then in 1842 a much larger fair was organized and visited by the Lieutenant-Governor of the Province and many other dignitaries. The press of the day described this event as having an excellent variety of the City’s manufacturing establishments.
Directors of the Mechanics’ Institute announced their intention of opening an Exhibition at the Hall of the Institute. This exhibition was to support and extend the schools, and other objects of a similar nature connected with the institute. The Mechanics’ Hall was located on Carleton Street, next to the St. John’s stone church, which was built in 1940.
The request was put out for articles of art, science general utility and of the beauty of nature that would be considered of interest to the public. Also included were requests to those who owned philosophical apparatuses, paintings, engravings, and models of all descriptions, articles of elegance, curiosity or utility. These owners were reassured the return of their articles after the Exhibition was over. This exhibition was held in August 1842.
The hope for this Exhibition was to give the public an opportunity to aid a charitable fund, but to give the citizens of Saint John a chance to see and enjoy the genius among them.
Since it’s beginning, the Exhibition has been called such names as; The St. John Provincial, Triennial, Canadian International, Dominion, Centennial, Saint John, and today The Atlantic National. A note of interest, in 1890 the local press called the Exhibition a “World’s Fair.’
The nineteenth century ushered in larger fairs, now being called Exhibitions. More detail was put on the displaying of agricultural and industrial products than on the sales. Prince Albert, the Consort of Queen Victoria was instrumental in the creation of the first World’s Fair held in Hyde Park, London in 1851.
The success of England’s first world’s fair did not go unnoticed by the forward thinkers of Saint John, and in the same year their exhibition was recognized as Canada’s first industrial fair. Once again The Mechanics’ Institute sponsored the 1851 fair and to accommodate the growth they built a 120’ x 65’ x 35’ high building for the occasion.
Later in the century the amalgamation of the City of Portland with the City of Saint John gave Saint John the distinction of being the fourth largest City in Canada.
1867, Canada’s Confederation year, found the need to move the fair to Victoria Park, which had been built in 1864 on City Road. This unique round building, mainly used as a skating rink, was ideal for the Exhibition. To lend to its convenience were the nearby railway sheds suitable to house farm machinery and equipment exhibits. Also near by and used during Exhibition week for the outdoor mid-way was what was known as the Pleasure Grounds located at Torryburn close to present day Kennebecasis Park. During this week trains made several trips to Toronto charging twenty cents return. Admission to the Exhibition grounds was another twenty cents, and if the family drove out in their own horse and buggy, it cost an additional twenty cents to hitch the horses.
In 1880 the Exhibition had been moved to the Barrack Green covering approximately twenty acres and situated at the bottom of Sydney Street. On the Green were two small building that had been built many years previous for military use. During the fire of 1877 these two building escaped the ravages of the fire that destroyed over a third of the homes and businesses in the City.
The next exhibition was held in October of 1883, Saint John’s Centennial year. Great efforts were made to celebrate this occasion properly and to show the world that the City of Saint John was indeed a place of importance.
Earlier, in1880, a new exhibition building was built on the Green with a second building erected in 1883. These two buildings gave the exhibition 90,000 square feet of space in which to showcase many types of exhibits. Cattle and horse sheds too were constructed to house 346 horses and 700 cattle. Next 125 hog-pens and sheep-pens were built. Each pen was built large enough to house 4 animals.
The first centrifugal cream separator on the North American continent was brought from England to be exhibited and demonstrated at the Dominion and Centennial Exhibition. Festivities began Monday afternoon on October 1, with grand opening ceremonies starting at 2:00p.m. on the Exhibition grounds. Following the speech by His Honour, The Lieutenant-Governor Wilmot’s, he and his party made their way to the Exhibition’s Machinery Hall where he started a large steam powered stationery engine. When started, this engine provided the power to illuminate and powered the machinery the exhibitors used to produce their many manufactured products for all the public to see. This Machinery Hall was very popular with exhibitors right up to 1936.
All through the week until the final day, Thursday, October 11th. there were parades, balloon risings, rowing races in the harbour, harness racing at Moosepath Park, band concerts, tree planting in Queen Square and fireworks. One evening Mayor Jones, under the lights of Chinese lanterns, unveiled the Polymorphian Club’s Drinking Fountain. (Years later the fountain was removed to make a wider street.)
During Exhibition time two warships, one each from the Royal and the United States Navies were berthed in the harbour. Their officers took part in the opening ceremonies; the good people of Saint John entertained them and their crews royally. The American Ship, the UUS Alliance, a propeller driven gunboat of 1375 tons and manned by a crew of 178 sailors were serving on the North Atlantic Station at the time, this allowed them to take part in the Cities ceremonies and an opportunity to represent their country.
I WILL FINISH THE ANE WHEN ANN FOSTER SENDS ME MORE CLEAR PAGES. EMAILED A REQUEST FOR THEM JANUARY 15/08


The Albert County Exhibition




Fredericton Exhibition
Written By: Fred H. Phillips
The Fredericton Exhibition, as it is known to fair patrons today, owes its origin to the enthusiasm of Sir Howard Douglas. As Governor of New Brunswick from 1824 to 1831, he proved himself one of the best administrators of the Colonial period. He did much to encourage road building, agriculture and education; and he promoted New Brunswick's first exhibition.
Sir Howard called a meeting in the Province Hall in Fredericton on February 17, 1825, to stimulate agricultural effort in the Province. In addition to the elected members of the Legislature, Sir Howard also invited prominent citizens from all the Counties and in his opening address outlined a plan for the formation of a central agricultural society. During the meeting an organizing committee was formed, the membership of which included Hon. Judge Botsford as chairman, Harry Peters, then Speaker of the Legislature, Col. John Allen, Samuel Nevers, Peter Stubs, Hugh Monroe, Charles Simonds, David B. Wetmore, William Crane and Samuel Scovil.
The committee presented a report at the second meeting held on March 5, 1825, and from this report the New Brunswick Agricultural and Immigrant Society emerged. Chief Justice Bliss became president; Hon. Judge Botsford and Hon. Thomas Baillie, vice-presidents; Ward Chipman, Peter Fraser, Harry Peters, Peter Stubs and Jedediah Slason as additional member of the executive. Sir Howard became patron of the newly formed Society and, in a speech of acceptance, announced that he had been authorized to grant from the King's casual revenue the sum of $ 25 for the aid of an Agricultural Society in each County of the Province.
At the annual meeting of the Agricultural & Immigrant Society held in Province Hall on February 19, 1827, the members voted in favour of holding a Provincial Cattle Show on the grounds of the Fredericton Race Course on October 9.
By mid-century the Exhibition was a well-established event in the life of the Capital City. The association with the Provincial Government had been preserved and a building called the Colonial Palace had been erected in 1852 on ground directly facing Old Province Hall.
When William Watts was designing the pavilion for the great Provincial Exhibition of 1852, he probably did not dream that an art gallery would supersede his early cultural effort more than a century later. The Beaverbrook Art Gallery now stands on the ground so briefly occupied by the pavilion.
In 1850, the New Brunswick Society was formed for "the encouragement of agriculture, home manufacturing and commerce throughout the province".
The Lieutenant Governor, Sir Edmund Head, was patron of the Exhibition, and Hon. George Frederick Street was president.
William Watts at the time was editor of the weekly called "The Headquarters", published by James Paul Agutta Phillips in a frame building at the corner of Queen Street and Camperdowne Lane. In addition to designing the Pavilion, Watts also composed "The Song of the Great Exhibition", which was set to music by Col. S.K. Foster of Saint John and arranged for the Masonic Band by Micheal White.
The Pavilion was designed to suggest the Crystal Palace of the London Exhibition of 1851. The Ladies Gallery at the east end and the Music Gallery at the west end would accommodate 100 people each.
John McInnis, manager of the newly formed gas company, was in charge of the lighting. The gas company had been founded only in 1850, so the new-fangled lights were still something of a novelty. Great winged dragons carved from wood formed the chandeliers. The monsters faced north, south, east and west and flame sputtered from the mouth of each. Below, heraldic griffins belched gaseous light upon the display shelves.
The Pavilion must have presented an imposing front to the thousands of visitors coming to Fredericton by the riverboats. The lower part of the building was made of boards, the clerestory of the glass and the roof of canvas. A 12-foot Britannia, supported by the Lion and the Unicorn, stood over the main entrance. The point of her trident was sixty-five feet above the ground. Sixty flags floated over the roof of the Pavilion.
The porch of Province Hall served as the beginning of a passageway, which connected the older structure with the Pavilion. The various offices and chambers of Old Province Hall made valuable exhibit space.
The Pavilion "was crowded to overflowing with horticultural produce, agricultural implements, tools, fish, cheese, butter, honey, leather, ropes, ship's furniture and paper". In all, about 1,000 competitors made over 4,000 individual entries.
The grand opening was 12 noon on Tuesday, October 5. One round fired from a cannon manned by militia artillerymen was the signal for the take-off of a grand procession. Leading were the band and pipers of the 72nd Regt., then in garrison, known as the Duke of Albany's Own Highlanders or the Seaforths.
Next came the uniformed Fire Companies of Fredericton and Saint John complete with fire engines, while the Masonic fraternity in full regalia brought up the rear. After the parade the local Fire Companies tendered a luncheon at the New Market Hall on behalf of the visiting units from Saint John.
Promptly at two o'clock, Sir Edmund Head, attended by a Highland Guard of Honour, entered the Pavilion to a salute of 19 guns. Hon. George Frederick Street, as president of the New Brunswick Society, received the Lieutenant Governor.
Sir Edmund and Lady Head, with their numerous trains, then occupied places of honour on the dais placed under the Music Gallery. A massed choir from the churches of the City occupied the Ladies Gallery and the full band of the 72nd Regt. in the Music Gallery balanced these.
When the combined volume of brass, reeds, drums and vocals let go on the National Anthem, the occasion seems to have been some kind of musical moment. Immortalized in yellowing newsprint the scene unfolded like this:
"The weather up to this point had been wet but at the moment the voices and instruments blended in the strains of the National Anthem, a burst of radiant sunshine flooded the spectacle". (Doubtless a token of Divine Approval of the Great Exhibition.) The formidable combination of band and voices afterward rendered the Doxology and The Song of the Great Exhibition.
There followed "the customary exchange of addresses and tour of the Exhibition".
Wednesday, October 6, was given over to the cattle show at the Grove, a beautiful tree-shaded area that once extended northwestward from the present Queens Square. Over the main avenue was an arch decorated with flowers and evergreens.
In the evening the officers of the New Brunswick Society and the general public attended a lecture in the New Market Hall given by Hon. L.A. Wilmot.
Thursday, The Grove was given over to athletic sports. At the regatta, held the same day, the gig races were reported "very fair" and the canoe races excellent.
EXHIBITION PALACE
After such pleasures, the public appetite may have become jaded but there was a revival of interest when it became known that the Provincial Exhibition might be held in Capital in the autumn of 1864 if a suitable structure were available. William McLean called a public meeting for April 10, 1863, then Sheriff of York County, to discuss the proposition for erecting a public building to accommodate the next Provincial Exhibition to be held in the city.
The local supporters must have decided to go ahead and one M. Stead of Saint John was asked to submit a design. The resulting Exhibition Palace was built at the corner of Westmorland and Saunders Streets. It took the form of a Greek cross, measuring 167 feet each way and covering three-quarters of an acre. The dome in the centre of the building was 80 feet in height and it had a row of windows all the way around it. Immediately beneath the dome was an 18-foot gallery, suitable for displays of pictures and other light exhibits. The exterior was decorated with a number of carved figures of rather heroic proportions. There were colossal figures of men and women, as well as wreaths and garlands. Britannia and her trident measured a full 12 feet. The Lion and the Unicorn fought for the Crown over a good-sized Coat-of-Arms.
Sir Arthur Gordon, Lord Stanmore, the Colonial Governor of the Province opened the Provincial Exhibition in the famous Palace, on October 4, 1864.
The Provincial Exhibition was again brought to the Palace in Fredericton in 1870. The official opening was on October 3, Lieutenant Governor Wilmot then presiding.
The great Exhibition Palace was destroyed by fire in 1877. Speaking of it some years later, Mayor George E. Fenety said: "Not withstanding its exposure, from lack of caretaker living on the premises, the building was not even insured. Consequently $30,000 was thrown into the fire and destroyed in a couple of hours..."
SECOND BUILDING
A second, though lesser, Exhibition Building was built in 1881. The new structure was on a site west of Smythe Street and back of Saunders, which would place it roughly on the present fairgrounds. Croft and Camp of Saint John designed it. It was an oblong measuring 200 X 75 feet and the long sides were flanked by sub-structures 20 feet in width and 75 feet in length. The building had a central tower 100 feet high and a 17-foot gallery all the way around the interior, a total distance of 550 feet. The musicians' gallery was raised four feet above the rest of the gallery. Four grand staircases connected the two floors. This building followed its predecessor in flames on July 11, 1882.
Again we quote Mayor Fenety: "The second Palace arose upon the ashes of its predecessor out of funds provided by the Government, but the City and by private subscription... Not withstanding previous experience in not having a caretaker living on the premises, there was sad neglect again in this respect. Not only so, but there was no insurance outside the City's interest in the building, which was $4,000, and upon which $3,000 protection was placed".
PRIZE LIST OF 1878
The industry, arts and crafts of the time are reflected in a Fredericton Exhibition Prize List of 1878, now held by Provincial Archives.
The classes for cattle, sheep, swine and poultry closely resemble those of today; but under "horses" there were classes for "trotting, carriage or road purposes" before "draught or agricultural".
Of course there had to be rules to govern all this, so the board laid down that:
"The Exhibition will be open for livestock, agricultural, horticultural, domestic and dairy products, manufacturers of all kinds, mineral and arts."
"Animals may be Provincial bred or imported, but must be the property of a resident of the Province and, if imported, must have been the property of the exhibitor for at least three months."
"Agricultural, horticultural, domestic and dairy products, manufacturers, minerals and other articles must be the growth, product or manufacture of New Brunswick to be eligible for a money prize."
"Exhibitors must come prepared to have their horses and cattle led into a ring when directed to do so by the superintendent of the grounds, precisely at the time specified. All animals not so brought forward will be ruled out of competition."
"Manufacturers are requested to furnish with their article exhibited, the quantity they can produce or supply, and the price for the information of the judges, whose decision will be based on the combination of quality, style and price, and the adaptation of the article to the purpose or purposes for which it is intended."
All this and much more was given under the signature of "Julius L. Inches", secretary for agriculture.
INCORPORATION
The Agricultural Society for District No. 34, York County, was incorporated by Letters-Patent passed on the 25th day of March 1889, under provision of the Agricultural Act 1888.
The fondly remembered "big building" was built on the present site around the turn of the century. W. Storey Hooper became secretary in November 1902 and would continue in office until the end of 1922. John A. Campbell of Springhill was elected president in 1903, thus beginning a term of office that would continue until the end of 1918.
Almost on the outbreak of World War I the military authorities obtained equity in the plant, although one wartime Exhibition was held in the autumn of 1915. The midway was brightened by a new ride called the Ocean Wave, while the concessionaires were offering Charlie Chaplain and Kewpie Dolls for the first time.
During 1917 and the early months of 1918 the Exhibition Building became barracks for the 236th MacLean Highlanders, of which Lt.-Col. P.A. Guthrie was Commanding Officer.
REVIVAL
The end of the war brought an early revival of interest in the Exhibition. At a meeting on February 13, 1919, it was "decided that the Agricultural Society No. 34 hold an Exhibition in the fall of 1919... and that the dates be from Saturday night, September 13 to Saturday night, September 20".
At a meeting in the Mayor's office on June 20, 1919, "Vice President W.E. Farrell reported fully on the settlement with the military authorities for restoration of the Exhibition property, advising that the matter had been closed out and the sum of $8,925 paid into the Society's funds".
At fair time the Ben Williams Shows provided the midway, offering the famous "Whip" ride for the first time. "As will be seen from the Treasurer's report," state the minutes of a wind-up meeting on November 28, "the Exhibition was a financial success". Music and amusements had cost $1,993.66, of which $800 had been paid for "a jazz band from New York", which had cause no little comment at the time.
The continuing association between the fair and the harness racing is reflected in the minutes for February 17, 1921: "Moved and carried that the Directors of the Fredericton Exhibition pledge themselves, if satisfactory arrangements can be made, to take over from the Fredericton Park Association their rights in the Trotting Park and to make the Trotting Park a part of the Fredericton Exhibition and operate it as a part thereof, beginning with the present year (1921)".
RE-ORGANIZATION
At a meeting on January 12, 1922, Mr. Winslow outlined proposed changes in the by-laws: it was "Resolved that the Agricultural Society No. 34 transfer its assets to a company to be known as the Fredericton Exhibition Ltd., a charter for the latter Company to be obtained under the New Brunswick Joint Stock Companies Act of 1916".
On the afternoon of February 28, 1922 a meeting of the provisional directors of Fredericton Exhibition Ltd. was opened. Letters Patent incorporating the Company were submitted to the meeting, approved and adopted as the charter of the Company.
At a meeting of the Agricultural Society No. 34, held on April 5, 1922, the necessary transfers and conveyances were carried out.
A joint meeting of Fredericton Exhibition Ltd. and representatives of the Fredericton Park Association was held. After discussion it was:
"Resolved that the Fredericton Exhibition Ltd. take over the liabilities ($955.58) of the Fredericton Park Association as well as its assets; and further"
"Resolved that the Fredericton Exhibition Ltd. assume the responsibility of guaranteeing the permanency of the Race Track as such and conduct racing providing conditions are favourable."
A Racing Committee of the Fredericton Exhibition was appointed at the same meeting, composed of Roy W. Smith as chairman, J.D. Black, A.C. Flemming, P.S. Watson and Ald. G.T. Feeney.
FURTHER CHANGES
At the annual meeting on November 30, 1922, William Cruikshank was named secretary, effective the beginning of 1923. The election of officers meeting on December 11, 1923, elected W. Story Hooper as president, in recognition of his many years of service as Secretary. He would hold the position through 1924 and 1925.
A decision taken on December 27, 1923, to hold a fair in September 1924 seems to mark the end of the biennials and beginning of the annuals.
Motions for the payment of dues seem to indicate that the Fredericton Exhibition Ltd. had become a member both of the United States Trotting Association and of the Canadian Association of Exhibitions by 1924.
The Amusement Committee heard a proposition on May 16, 1928, offering 26 musicians for Saturday night opening and throughout Fair Week for $1,000.00.
The local boys did not make it. On May 30, 1928 the Amusement Committee voted to sign with the Masonic Concert Band of Halifax at $1,500.00 for Fair Week.
POST WAR
The last pre-war Fair would be held in 1938. By that time George A. Hamid Inc. of New York City were providing elaborate grandstand shows for the fairs and Bonnie Brownell's Continental Revue, paced by standard circus and vaudeville acts, was a big attraction that year.
An unpleasant beginning in Europe on September 1, 1939, made an end of all the big fairs for some time to come. The main building of the Fredericton Exhibition promptly became barracks for the 89th Battery, RCA, of Woodstock, and thereby probably became Fredericton's first casualty of World War II. It was burned in November 1939.
The fair resumed in 1950, making do with wartime housing that had been erected on the grounds. The Bill Lynch Shows made their first appearance on the midway, a spot they would fill annually with one exception (1951) until the present time. W. Raymond Crewdson had his first baptism of fire as secretary-manager of the Fair.
A building in Douglas owned by the New Brunswick Livestock Breeders Association was moved from its former location to the Fredericton Exhibition grounds in 1954 and the first livestock show was held in conjunction with the Fair that year.
A new coliseum with a seating capacity of 2,400 was begun in 1959 and first used during the Exhibition of 1960.
A new barn with accommodation for 700 head of cattle was built in 1962, with aid from the New Brunswick Livestock Breeders Association and both the Federal and Provincial Governments.
The year 1968 saw the raising of a steel structured grandstand with a seating capacity of 1,500. The walkways on the grounds were paved the same year. In 1969 a 65' X 165' barn for draft horses was built.
A saliva test building was built at the Raceway in 1971. Three years later, 1974, the accommodation for racehorses was greatly extended. A 160' X 69' barn capable of stabling 70 horses was added, as was a 60' X 44' race paddock barn with 32 stalls.
The Fredericton Exhibition Ltd. resumed direct control of the Raceway in 1975, after having leased it to various organizations for 18 years. One of their first steps was to up-date the track lighting system.
Ray Crewdson had brought the Fredericton Exhibition of 1970 to a successful conclusion and promptly took off for a short holiday. He died suddenly in Skowhegen, Maine, on his way to Montreal.
Mrs. Doris O'Hara, erstwhile Girl Friday to Ray Crewdson, became Secretary-Manager, continuing from February 1971 to December 1975. William B. (Wiff) Miles followed in her footsteps a position taken over by Brian Embleton.




Kent County Agricultural Fair

March 1957 Premetite Robichaud sent a letter to all the agricultural societies in Kent County, inviting them to a meeting in Ste-Marie to discuss the possibility of having a fair in Kent County.
At this meeting Mr. Prospere Girouard was named president and Mr. Alex Dan Doucet was secretary. During this meeting all were informed that the farmers in the farmers in the county were asking for a county fair for Kent. After much discussion a motion by Octave Cormier from Ste-Antoine, seconded by Hipolite Leger from Ste-Antoine that they were in favour of holding a Kent County Fair. Those present voted unanimously and the motion was passed.

Agrologist, Camille Chiasson explained ways in which to organize and finance fairs. A motion by Omer Cormier, seconded by Irene Allain that a temporary board of directors be named and that a constitution and by-laws be drafted. It was approved. This temporary committee was asked to submit a report of its work to the semi-annual meeting of Agricultural District # 3 at the end of April. A motion by Omer Cormier, seconded by Irene Allain was that a committee of 5 people be named by the president. The motion was carried. The president named the following people: Alphonse Dionne, Allison Mundle, Robert Samson, Premilite Robichaud and Omer Cormier.
The meeting president, Prosper Girouard, informed the meeting that the Ste-Marie Agricultural Society had required a building with the goal to house livestock during the fair. Mr. Girouard suggested that Ste-Marie would be a great site for a Kent County Fair. After discussion it was moved by Lionel Allain, and seconded by Octave Cormier of Ste-Antonie, that the Kent County Fair be held in Ste-Marie. Motion was carried. Also, at that meeting the Ste-Marie Agricultural Society offered $500.00 towards the fair.
Following this meeting the parish of Ste-Marie offered a parcel of land that was 2 ¼ acres near the schoolyard where the barn was placed. In 1959, since the Ste-Marie church had suffered a fire and the fair was doing well financially, the fair bought this piece of land from the parish.
During a producers meeting held in Bouctouche, there was talk of forming a Kent County Fair Association. The Agricultural Rep, Alphonse Dionne explained what had already been done, that being the choice of a site for the fair and the dues of $1.00 per member required. 60 people from this meeting immediately paid their membership. Elections took place and the following slate of officers were elected. Mr Cletus Cormier from Ste-Marie as President, Mr. Allison Mundel of Rexton as Vice-President, and Mr. Prospere Girouard from Ste-Marie as Secretary/Treasurer.
There was a sheep producer’s organization in which Joe Allain was president. This group asked the fair to build a building to house sheep, pork and poultry. Volunteers got together, and using salvaged wood from the burnt Ste. Marie church, they erected a second building. In 1965 the Kent County Agricultural Fair had eight buildings. Then in 1966 another piece of land was bought which brought the fair grounds to 10 acres.
During Canada’s Centennial year, 1967, Joe Allain brought forth the idea that the fair needed an arena to commemorate the Centennial year. The Federal Government had money in their budget for such a request and the Fair paid the county’s share.
In 1975 artificial ice was added to the arena. The local school was used for exhibits up until 1980, and after that the arena was used. The first years of the Kent County Agricultural Fair was managed and worked upon by all volunteer workers.
The length of Fair days has changed over the years. From 1957 through to 1964 the Fair lasted 3 days. Then in 1965 a day was added to the schedule. The fair always took place during the last full week of August.

Kings County Agricultural Fair
The Sussex & Studholm Agricultural Society was responsible fro starting the Agricultural Fair. At the organizational meeting in Daniel Sheck’s Hotel on March 30, 1841 it was decided to hold a cattle fair in June and another in October.
In 1848 a motion to spark more interest and competition in the fall livestock and produce fair and in the ploughing match. 20 pounds for the fair and 10 pounds for ploughing match were offered. The motion was lost. However, in 1850 prize money was given.
In 1851 the expanded prize list for the fair included classes for horses, cattle, sheep and pigs. No animal could be entered that had won 1st. prize the previous year. Grain classes, seeds, homespun and woven cloth, butter and cheese and the ploughing match were also expanded. The dairy products and cloth had to be made by the family of the exhibitor. By now 50 pounds was allotted for prize money.
NOTE: There is nothing in the minutes about meetings from Nov. 1861 to Nov. 1862. No record of Provincial Fair or building an exhibition pavilion.
In 1860 monetary the system was changed in N.B. from British currency to the American system of dollars and cents. The purpose of the Agricultural Society was to improve livestock and crops. Exhibitions were valuable to compare the results of the imported animals.
In 1864 all livestock entered in the fall Exhibition were required to have a certificate of pedigree. Efforts were made to bring in neighbouring Agricultural Societies to form a county fair, but they were not interested. Local fairs continued to be held.
In 1877 and 1878 judges were selected for horses, livestock and produce with the request that three ladies be selected to judge household articles and fancy work. This was the first time ladies were appointed as judges of exhibits.
Manufacturers would be allowed to exhibit their products at the 1882 Exhibition. The enlarged fair would be held in Sussex rink, which was built in 1877 on Wards Creek Road opposite the Baptist Church.
On September 11, 1882 the board met to hear a report of the Exhibition Committee, to the effect, while they had made progress in making arrangements, they strongly advised against holding an exhibition for several reasons:
1. Due to the military camp, the exhibition could not be held until after October 15
2. An election was near at hand
3. There was not enough money in the treasury to pay for prizes.
The fair was cancelled.

In 1885 an exhibition was to be arranged and a ploughing match held. Other Societies would again be contacted concerning a County Exhibition.

In 1887 total prize money was limited to $500.00. Prizes for grade bulls would be suspended and applied to horticulture class for roots.
In 1890 the directors were authorized to hold an Exhibition in the fall and obtain a suitable building and grounds for permanent use as a fair site. They were given permission to solicit public subscriptions to that end and try to collect $1,000.00 in a Provincial grant from the government in support of such an objective.
Plans were made for holding a Provincial Exhibition in Sussex in 1892. The government had offered a grant of $1,000.00 for that purpose. The local fall fair for 1891 was postponed until the next year. A committee was appointed to calculate cost of buildings and grounds.
Permanent buildings would be built on Society owned ground for exhibitions next year and in the future. Apparently this land was not suitable. There was difficulty in getting suitable land and there was a possibility of a permanent Military camp being established in Sussex with buildings that could be rented for exhibitions.
April 1892 when the prize list was prepared for the local exhibition, Jersey cattle were included.
At the fall fair of 1893 new tags were used bearing the name of the exhibitor rather than a number with the name covered until after the judging was completed. The committees were in charge of various divisions of the fair. The fair was held October 2, with fine weather and an excellent turn out of exhibitors in all classes of livestock and horticulture, as well as home crafts and local manufacturers.
The 1896 Exhibition would be held on 2 days, October 15 & 16. The next year (1897) the fair was extended to 3 days.
The Sussex Exhibition and Driving Park Association received an offer of 10 acres of land; rent free for 10 years from Mr. O’Connell and some $4,000.00 had been subscribed to the Association through the purchase of shares. The Society would take 30 of the shares.
The Agricultural building and sheds for livestock were built in 1898. The Hon. Abner Reid McClelan Lieutenant Governor, the Premier H.R. Emmerson and the Commissioner of Agriculture were invited for the official opening. A long list of distinguished cattle judges were invited to participate in the Exhibition as judges of the livestock. Special rates were advertised on the Intercolonial Railroad from Moncton and Saint John for passengers wishing to attend the Exhibition. This was the most successful exhibition held in history of the Society.
A 4-day exhibition was held in 1899. It was open to anyone in the province willing to pay a one-dollar entrance fee plus the entry fee on the classes entered.
In 1901 some of the committee favoured bringing judges from outside the area, as some of the local judges were inclined to be prejudiced.
The prize list would be printed in the Weekly Record and advertising would be solicited to help with the cost of printing the pamphlet prize list.
Holsteins and Hereford breeds were added to the prize list in 1902.
In the 1902 Exhibition Report special mention was made of a floral display put on by Mr. Goold with a suggestion that a competitive floral class be in future exhibitions.
Several successful fairs were held until 1906 no grant was received. The money that was to come to the Exhibition went to Sussex Packaging Company instead. The Government as to why the Society didn’t get the grant made excuses. A grant was requested from the town but was refused.
A fair would be held in 1908 if a grant were approved. $2,000.00 was forthcoming for the Exhibition. It was decided to offer $30.00 as prizes for Kings County Schools at the Exhibition. Prizes would be given for the three best collections of produce grown in school plots by school children.
At the end of the seventh decade in the life of the Society, the pioneer spirit that had marked the earlier life of the organization appeared to be somewhat dimmed, as the Board and members appeared to base all their decisions on how much money they could get from the Government, town or County before venturing on raising money by their own efforts.
In 1911 the County Council gave $300.00 and the idea of an exhibition was dropped. The money went to prizes for field crops and ploughing matches.
An Exhibition would be held in 1912 if sufficient grants were received. It was not held.
In successive years no fairs were held and the buildings needed repair. In 1920 they blew down and the Driving Park officials sold the lumber and deposited the money in their own account.
From Grace Aiton’s History of Sussex –“Around the turn of the century the Susses & Studholm Agricultural Society sponsored the first of many fall fairs in the building which the society erected, south of Nelson Street in 1898 – 1899. In these buildings during the first week in October there were exhibits of farm produce, fruit of the orchards and vegetables from the gardens, women’s work, fancy and otherwise, and displays of practically anything grown or manufactured in the surrounding country. A second building held livestock, cows, horses, pigs, sheep and poultry. Entertainers were brought in to enliven the show each evening and a Merry-go-round was operated by manpower. Small boys who were willing to propel the apparatus earned the occasional free ride.
This popular and well patronized fall event came to an end when the First World War broke out and the buildings were razed and the lumber sold.” The driving park remained in use for many years.
In 1937 a grant of $15.00 was given to assist the W.I. Fair for Lower Millstream and Mount Middleton. A judging team was sent to the Royal Winter Fair. Annie Waterston and George McLeod were to judge poultry. So it would be seem competitions of some sort in W.I. and young farmers was carried on.
In 1939 Hon. J.A. Murray addressed the annual meeting on December 5. He urged the Society to appoint a committee to meet with the Sussex Board of Trade regarding the revival of the annual Exhibition and Livestock Show in Sussex, which had been successfully held many years ago.
Perhaps it was because of World War ll, there is no mention of an Exhibition being held.
The minutes of 1944 mentions the start of a 3 breed dairy show, junior clubs were flourishing, and three farm organizations were supported.
There is mention of the fall fair in 1945. It would appear breed associations were organizing their own shows with support from the Society. In 1950 the livestock and vegetable show were mentioned.
In 1962, a written request from the District W.I. for a donation of $20.00 to assist the handcraft competition at the Flower and Vegetable Show was granted.

L’Exposition Regionale de St-Isidore

L ‘Exposition Regionale de madawaska Inc.

Miramichi Agricultural Exhibition Association
The Miramichi Agricultural Exhibition Association Limited was organized by a group of interested farmers and businessmen and was incorporated in 1903. Mr. L. J. Tweedie, Provincial Secretary, signed the charter by command of the Lieutenant Governor, The Honourable Jabez Bunting Snowball.
The organizers and provisional directors were:
William. B Snowball Merchant
Sydney D. Heckbert Merchant
John MacDonald Manufacturer
Andrew H. Marquis Merchant
Angus S. Ullock Liveryman
George Hildebrand Agent
Charles Reinsborrow Merchant
Joseph Tweedie Clerk
Fred M. Eddy Accountant
George Watt Merchant
George P. Searle Farmer
Richard A. Lawlor Barrister
Robert Murray Barrister
Thomas Flanagan Hotel Keeper
Michael Morris Millwright
Peter Archer Hotel Keeper
James Johnston Hotel Keeper
John D. Creaghan Merchant
John P. Burchill Lumber Merchant
Alexander G. Dickson Farmer
This group of men, who arranged for the erection of a building, which was to collapse later under heavy gales, started the plans for the Exhibition Building in 1902. The next building was erected following the signing of the Charter, which took place on March 12, 1903.
This second building was to survive until 1937, when shortly before the annual exhibition; flames engulfed and destroyed the stately structure.
The Board of Directors then made a very important decision. They realized the tremendous amount of work, which had already gone into the preparation of the 1937 Miramichi Exhibition, not only by themselves but also by the many exhibitors who would have had their exhibits prepared. They decided to erect temporary buildings and improvise with those not destroyed by fire so they could carry on with the annual event.
The exhibits arrived; the official ceremony took place; the judging was completed; and the crowds mingled in the midway with the smell of smoke in the air and the ruins of many years of dedicated work in full view.
The Board of Directors, however, was not to be discouraged. For the third time, plans were made for an Exhibition Building and the program of reconstruction began. After completion, the building was used for many years before it was further extended, both east and west, to occupy the entire width of the Exhibition Property. The building stretched a distance of 343.41 feet from Lobban Avenue on the east side, to John Street on the west side.
Main Exhibition Building
This structure, situated atop the hill overlooking the beautiful Miramichi River, became known as the Main Exhibition Building. The immense structure was crowned with a distinctive red steel roof it was impeccably maintained and extensively renovated throughout the years. It stood as one of the community's landmarks until April 16, 1993, when fire engulfed the stately structure and destroyed the entire complex.
This Main Exhibition Building consisted of three main sections. Located on the east end of the structure was the L shaped section, which housed the Curling Club ice surface and clubrooms. It was constructed in 1965, primarily to provide extra booth space for, the annual Exhibition.
In 1967, just shortly after erecting the Curling Club, the building collapsed during the curling season. Fortunately, no one was injured. The Ladies Curling Club later honoured Wib Jardine for saving their lives. Wib had refused to let the ladies go on the ice to curl as he had heard some unfamiliar noises when preparing the ice earlier in the morning.
His concern was instrumental in averting what may have been a terrible disaster. All concerned will always be grateful to Wib! The building was reconstructed shortly thereafter and continued to provide curling facilities for the Chatham Curling Club until 1992.
Located at the west end of the Main Exhibition Building was the Pavilion or the Dance Hall. The Pavilion was used extensively throughout the years as a venue for entertainment, weddings, dances, binges, fashion shows, and other special community events.
The ground level of the centre section of the structure was to house booth space as well as several of the Exhibition's own canteen facilities. These facilities, constructed in 1988 and 1989, were used during the annual fair. On the upper level of the centre section of the Main Exhibition Building was "Club Carnival." This area was completely renovated for the 1989 fair. Also located on the upper level of the centre section were three lounges: The Mac O'Brien Lounge, The Acadia Lounge, and the Black Angus Lounge.
The fire of April 16, 1993 left nothing but memories of the Main Exhibition Building. An Irish Flag and the contents of two small safes were all that remained of the 42,000 square foot structure and its many contents. During 1993 and 1994, large tents were used during the annual Exhibition to accommodate many of the functions, which would have been held in the Main Exhibition Building.
Extreme adversity had faced the founders and directors of the Miramichi Agricultural Exhibition Association Limited in the past. As a tribute to their dedication, the President and Board of Directors made the decision in the spring of 1995 to begin construction of a new Exhibition facility.
Phase I of the reconstruction was completed for the 1995 Miramichi Exhibition. JW Lindsay Enterprise Limited of Moncton constructed a 9,000 square foot facility. This fully air conditioned structure seats up to 600 people and is used for entertainment, weddings, dances, and other special community events. The first official event that took place in the Exhibition Pavilion was the 1995 Miss Miramichi Pageant. During Exhibition Week, the Pavilion is used as an entertainment venue and also houses a lively casino featuring blackjack and roulette.
Construction began on Phase II of the project immediately following Exhibition '96. Prospect Contractors Ltd. of Fredericton built another 9,000 square foot facility.
This facility, known as the Trade Show Building, has previously held the commercial booth displays during Exhibition Week. The Trade Show Building is used during the rest of the year for the weekly bingos and other special community events. It also houses the Exhibition Office year round. Preliminary construction plans call for three separate phases of construction.

Other Buildings and Improvements
Property owned by the Miramichi Exhibition extends a distance of 2462.2 feet from north to south from Church Street to St. Thomas Street.
South of the Exhibition Pavilion stand three cattle barns, two horse barns, a farmyard baby animal display building, and a livestock display building. During Exhibition Week, the livestock building houses swine, sheep, goats, fancy breeds of hens, purebred rabbits, foxes, oxen, etc. Also on the southern part of the property are the L shaped Napke Building, the Red Rooster Lounge & Casino, the Log Cabin, public washrooms and the Show Ring.
The Napke Building houses Nanna's Kitchen as well as all of the exhibits entered for competition. This includes exhibits of agricultural products, horticultural products, fine art, home economics, handicrafts, and 4-H crafts.
Repairs to the Napke Building, including a new red steel roof and completely renovated public washrooms were completed in 1988. In 1991, new showcases were constructed for the display of baked goods. In keeping with making buildings more accessible to the disabled, a new concrete wheelchair ramp and steps were installed.
In 1993, after fire had destroyed the Main Exhibition Building, the Association no longer had a venue to hold its weekly bingos. It was decided to convert the Napke Building to meet this need. As a result, the building was again completely renovated. A new tile floor was laid; a canteen was built, and new walls, windows and doors were installed. The hall was wired with a new PA sound system and an air exchanger was installed for the comfort of patrons. New tables and chairs were purchased to complete the renovation package. In 1999, new tables were once again purchased for the Napke Building.
On the second floor of one of the horse barns known, by old time fair goers as the "Jersey Barn", is the Red Rooster Lounge & Casino. In 1989, a new red steel roof was installed on this building. Then in 1991, the facility underwent extensive renovations. A distinctive red and white tile floor was installed; a cashier's office was constructed; and lighting was improved. In 1999, six new blackjack tables were built for the Rooster. During the annual Exhibition, nightly entertainment featuring local artists added to the lively atmosphere of the Red Rooster Lounge & Casino.
The little Log Cabin with the red roof was completely renovated for the 1996 Exhibition. The Log Cabin has a concrete patio with a new roof built over it and has been landscaped to add to its appearance. Also new that year was the construction of wheelchair accessible public washroom facilities, which are located just south of the Log Cabin.
On July 24, 1986, the Exhibition's Grandstand was destroyed by fire. The Grandstand was some thirty years old; had seated 500 patrons; and was once used as a canteen area. It had housed the pari-mutuel betting windows for horseracing events. The last horse- racing event was staged in 1982, and from then on the Grandstand had been used as a seating area for horse hauling events and other outdoor shows.
Following the destruction of the Grandstand, open-air bleachers were built in 1987. The bleachers were erected in the area immediately south of the three cattle barns. Also in this area is the judges' stand. This area of the property, known as the Show Ring, is used for such events as the 4-H judging. A stairway leading from the midway area between Cattle Barn #2 and Cattle Barn #3 enables patron’s easy access to the Show Ring. Also in 1987, new fencing was installed around the entire midway area. In 1988, new and improved lighting was installed for the Barn / Show Ring area.
The Napke Building houses Nanna's Kitchen as well as all of the exhibits entered for competition. This includes exhibits of agricultural products, horticultural products, fine art, home economics, handicrafts, and 4-H crafts.
Repairs to the Napke Building, including a new red steel roof and completely renovated public washrooms were completed in 1988. In 1991, new showcases were constructed for the display of baked goods. In keeping with making buildings more accessible to the disabled, a new concrete wheelchair ramp and steps were installed.
In 1993, after fire had destroyed the Main Exhibition Building, the Association no longer had a venue to hold its weekly bingos. It was decided to convert the Napke Building to meet this need. As a result, the building was again completely renovated. A new tile floor was laid; a canteen was built, and new walls, windows and doors were installed. The hall was wired with a new PA sound system and an air exchanger was installed for the comfort of patrons. New tables and chairs were purchased to complete the renovation package. In 1999, new tables were once again purchased for the Napke Building.
On the second floor of one of the horse barns known, by old time fair goers as the "Jersey Barn", is the Red Rooster Lounge & Casino. In 1989, a new red steel roof was installed on this building. Then in 1991, the facility underwent extensive renovations. A distinctive red and white tile floor was installed; a cashier's office was constructed; and lighting was improved. In 1999, six new blackjack tables were built for the Rooster. During the annual Exhibition, nightly entertainment featuring local artists adds to the lively atmosphere of the Red Rooster Lounge & Casino.
On July 24, 1986, the Exhibition's Grandstand was destroyed by fire. The Grandstand was some thirty years old; had seated 500 patrons; and was once used as a canteen area. It had housed the pari-mutuel betting windows for horse- racing events. The last horseracing event was staged in 1982, and from then on the Grandstand had been used as a seating area for horse hauling events and other outdoor shows.
Following the destruction of the Grandstand, open-air bleachers were built in 1987. The bleachers were erected in the area immediately south of the three cattle barns. Also in this area is the judges' stand. This area of the property, known as the Show Ring, is used for such events as the 4-H judging. A stairway leading from the midway area between Cattle Barn #2 and Cattle Barn #3 enables patrons easy access to the Show Ring. Also in 1987, new fencing was installed around the entire midway area. In 1988, new and improved lighting was installed for the Barn / Show Ring area.
Behind the open-air bleachers, on the far south of the Exhibition Grounds, is the area used by the midway in the past for the special "Kiddies Land." For the past few years, the format had been changed. "Kiddies Land" had been held on the main part of the Exhibition Grounds, next to the Pavilion and Trade Show Building. This year, we will return to the old format, with "Kiddies Land" on the southern part of the property. The Adult Midway will be housed on the main Exhibition Grounds.
Further south is the trailer hook up area used by exhibitors and midway personnel. A building in this area has also been renovated for storage. The remaining property south to St. Thomas Street (the old race track property) has been levelled and is now to be used for parking. In 1989, the new Show Ring lighting was extended to include the south parking lot. This expensive, but worthwhile lighting provides visitors, neighbours, and this facility with an added sense of security, not only during the fair week, but during the remainder of the year as well.
There are three entrances into the Exhibitions Grounds. These ticket booths and entrances are conveniently located around the perimeter of the property. To the north is the Main Entrance gate, situated between the Exhibition Pavilion and the Trade Show Buildings. In 1998, new ticket booths were built for the Main Entrance. At the opposite end of the property is the South Gate Entrance, situated in the southwest corner of the Exhibition Grounds. This entrance is located handy to the south end parking lot. In 1991, renovations were made to the South Gate Entrance to include an extra ticket booth. To the east is the Lobban Avenue Entrance, which was situated as a convenient entrance for visitors from Mount St. Joseph.
Summary
For more than 95 years, the organizers of the Miramichi Exhibition have worked hard to produce a first-rate Exhibition with facilities that were the envy of the industry. Twice this decade, the organizers of the Miramichi Exhibition have been awarded national awards by the Canadian Association of Exhibitions. It was chosen "Regional Fair of the Year" in 1992 and earned the "Achievement of the Year" award in 1993.
Visitors to the 1999 fair will note that no expense has been spared in preparing the grounds and facilities. Without question, the fairgrounds here at the Miramichi Exhibition are the "cleanest in the east". After a visit to the fair we are sure you would agree!
Past Presidents


George Watt 1902 1904 1917 1920
Hon. L. J. Tweedie 1904 1911
Alexander G. Dickson 1911 1912 1925 1927
William B. Snowball 1912 1913 1922 1925
Richard A. Lawlor 1913 1915
Hon. John P. Burchill 1915 1917
Frederick M. Tweedie 1920 1922
Sydney D. Heckbert 1927 1930
George E. Fisher 1930 1932
G. Percival Burchill 1932 1934
William Johnston 1934 1936
J. Mac O'Brien 1936 1948 1950 Feb. 1955
Byron Nowlan 1948 1950 1960 1962
Max Galloway 1955 1960
Harvey White 1962 1965 1978 Jan. 1979
Renforth Loggie 1965 1966
William J. Rigley 1966 1967
J. Robert Martin 1967 1969
George W. Bateman 1970 1973
Charles A. McCoombs 1973 1976
John D. Trevors 1976 1978 1979 Jan. 1980
1982 1984 1997 Present
Marion Fitzpatrick 1980 1981
( First Woman President )
Paul Seymour 1981 Jul. 1982
John E. Tozer 1982 Oct.1982
Thomas L. MacLean 1984 1990
Glenna Sorel 1990 1992 1993 1996
Doug Breau 1992 1993
John D. Trevors 1996 Present
Miramichi Exhibition
FRED SMITH
EDUCATIONAL AWARD
$1,000.00
To honour the memory of former director, Fred Smith, the Miramichi Exhibition funds an Annual Educational Awards Program. Mr. Smith, a lifelong resident of Chatham, N.B., was a veteran of World War II, a businessman, a political activist, and a director of the Miramichi Exhibition for many years. He died in 1990. During the period Mr. Smith was a director, the Miramichi Exhibition enjoyed unprecedented growth and prosperity.
The two $1,000 annual awards are open to any graduate of a high school located in Northumberland County. The intended field of study, at a recognized post secondary educational institution, must be related to agriculture or agricultural production.
2000 Recipient
Sheila Margaret McIver is a student at the University of Prince Edward Island she is studying science to be followed by veterinary services!
1999 Recipients
Sarah R. Colford, a graduate of Doaktown Consolidated High School, is the daughter of David and Catherine Colford of Doaktown. In the fall, Sarah will be studying science at the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton. She plans to continue on to the Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island and would like to specialize in large animal medicine.
Leon Reginald Lloyd Waye, a graduate of Miramichi Valley High School, is the son of Reginald Waye and the late Ann Lifsches of Newcastle. Leon will be working toward a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science with an emphasis on Biology and Genetics at the University of New Brunswick. He plans to be employed as a research scientist.
Exhibition Dates
17 - 20 August 2005
For further information write or call:
Miramichi Exhibition
PO Box 422
Miramichi City, N.B., Canada
E1N 3A8
(506) 773 5133



Port Elgin
The Botsford and Westmorland Agricultural Society was first incorporated in 1849, shortly after the Village of Port Elgin had it’s beginning about 1836-37. The Act relating to Agriculture required the Society to have at least 60 members with a membership fee of $1.00 each.
The Society renewed its incorporation and obtained a new Acharter in 1892 and moved to its present location in 1896. In the next several years, the grounds were cleared, stumped, ploughed, graded, a board fence erected around the grounds, a grandstand and judges’ stand built as well as stalls and exhibition buildings.
The ‘Busy East of Canada’ in September 1921, stated that the grounds
And premises consisted of about 15 acres of land with a race track, a new and
Up-to-date “commodious” grand stand (erected at a cost of $2,000.00) judges’ stand about 50 stalls for stabling stock, etc., a main exhibition building and a dining building. The Port Elgin Trotting Association was formed the same year and carried out several races with assistance from the Botsford and Westmorland Agricultural Society, in greatly improving the track.
From the time of its incorporation, the Society progressed from the alternate exhibit locations of Oulton’s Corner and Port Elgin, where limited exhibits were placed by the roadside, and after inspection by appointed inspectors, money was spent on bonusing composts and chopping and clearing new land and for stumping and ploughing to exhibits of ploughing matches, fall cattle shows, annual seed fairs, standing field crops competitions, best kept farm competitions, and then as years passed, to all lines of livestock and agricultural products, fancy work and domestic manufacturing.
The last Exhibition was held in 1957, at which time it was the longest running Exhibition in New Brunswick. Sadly, due to disinterest or neglect, records from 1849 to 1957 have been lost or are, at least, unavailable. Sometime after 1957, the local School Board acquired the land to gain access to the well in order to supply water to the school. The land that contained the original barn was returned and retained by Stanley Brine and Sidney Sprague.
In August 1970 a group of interested horsemen met and formed the Port Elgin Horseman’s Club. The Club then acquired the barn and approximately one acre of land from Mr. Brine. Through diligent volunteer work the track was cleared and graded, the barn refurbished and training of horses was again carried out. In subsequent years successful races were held, however, interest waned and the track continued to be used for training only.
In 1992 the Botsford and Westmorland Agricultural Society was re-activated and a small Exhibition was held. In 1994 the Society was formally reconstituted with 4 founding members: The Port Elgin Horseman’s Club, The Baie Verte Horse Club, The Tantramar Pony Club and The Chignecto Wagoneers, this group had 300 members. With the aid of grants and financial support from the Wagooneers an Exhibition building was constructed and barns built, including 2 horse barns, a cow barn and a petting zoo. In addition, the land not needed by the School Board was returned to the Society.
Further improvements continue to be made and the Port Elgin Exhibition continues to grow, striving to provide agricultural awareness to the area of South-eastern New Brunswick and Northern Nova Scotia through assistance from the N.B. Fairs and Exhibition Association, volunteers, the Village of Port Elgin and local and regional businesses, groups and individuals.
****Historical facts, information and quotes gleaned from ‘The Busy East Coast of Canada’ September issue 1921, volume 12, number 3, published by The Busy East Coast Press, Limited, Sackville, N.B.

Queens County Fair
Stanley Agricultural Society #35
Stanley is a small village approximately 50 kilometres north of Fredericton. Every year since 1851 the good people of Stanley and area have brought their best livestock, handiwork, produce, baking, preserves, flowers, crafts, Christmas trees and wreaths to exhibit at the Stanley Fair. It was with great pride that Robert Foreman in 1851 accepted the first prize ribbon for the best bull calf. That same pride was surely felt by Mrs. Angus MacMillan when she was asked to prepare a loaf of her prize-winning bread to be served to Governor General Alexander who visited the fair in 1946. From the humble beginnings of that first “Parish Show” in 1851 the fair has become an integral part of our heritage.
Over the years dedicated volunteers have worked hard to not only keep the fair alive but to rejuvenate and revive some of that excitement of past fairs. Government funds have been used to repair and upgrade existing facilities. Summer students who have been employed to carry out much of this work have gained so much more than a few dollars in their bank account. They have learned valuable skills but more important they have learned a respect and admiration for the great history that surrounds the Stanley Fair.
Other students have been introduced to that history. Classes from local schools visit the fair where they are introduced to some of the interesting characters that contributed to the settlement of this area. People like Mysie MacDonald, one of the immigrants who arrived from Scotland unprepared for the harsh New Brunswick winter. Many perished that first winter of 1836 but Mysie survived and indeed was the last survivor of Scotch settlement. She was strong and independent, this quality added to her reputation of being odd. Jane Taylor, distinguished farmwoman, who won prizes for her oats at the Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia in 1876.
Other interesting displays include a replica of the workshop of Alfred Pringle, an award winning craftsman from Williamsburg whose ingenuity is evident in the many tools he designed and built. All visitors to the fair are given the opportunity to view displays of small animals, farm machinery, genealogy and historical artefacts. An Agricultural Awareness display very clearly illustrates the connection between the food on our table and the farmers that produce it.
The Stanley Fair was first held in Logan’s field in October 1851. Every year since then the people of Stanley and surrounding areas have held an annual fair. Through droughts, wars and depressions people have come together to celebrate the rural way of life.
In recent years it has become more and more difficult to put on a Fair that will attract visitors but not put the Society deep in debt. In 2000 we celebrated our 150th Stanley Fair and the momentum from that carried us through the 2001 Fair. Recent improvements to the canteen facilities and some of the other buildings that are (were) more than 100 years old made our job as volunteers easier and brought many positive comments from Fair goers. An Agricultural Awareness display that included “A Mountain of Food” was just one of the educational aspects of the Fair experienced by students on organized school tours and by the general public.
As the Society met after the 2001 Fair we were excited and enthusiastic about the future of the Stanley Fair. This enthusiasm and plans for future Fairs were crushed on October 31, 2001 by an act of vandalism. Fire destroyed the canteen, electrical building and the over 100 year old Root House. As great a loss as this was to the community we are so grateful that only property was lost. The Stanley Volunteer fire department was very quick to respond to the fire call however as they arrived on the scene a live power line came down, barely missing some of the fire fighters. This live power line prevented them from fighting the fire. All they could do was wait and watch as a propane tank flared and the fire spread to the Root House. The danger of an explosion of ammonia in the nearby ice making plant forced the evacuation of 200 village residents. In the end there was no loss of life, no injury and no one lost their home. We are all so thankful for that.
On the morning of November 1, 2001 it was with great sadness, disbelief and a tremendous sense of loss that Society members gathered on the Fair grounds to survey the damage. The hot water tank that had made running the canteen so much easier for the past two Fairs, gone. The tables, deck and other improvements carried out by summer student workers, gone. The huge mural that depicted a prosperous New Brunswick farm, gone. All the Agricultural Awareness information that had been so carefully stored in plastic totes to keep the mice out, gone. The antique butter churn and hot dog steamer, the beginnings of a historical display, gone.
At an emergency meeting a week after the fire there was much discussion about the future of the Stanley Fair. We had received many offers of assistance from our community and our neighbours who felt our loss. In the end the decision was made that if the essentials could be replaced without incurring a great debt, in fact the Society is not willing to take on any debt, (The risk involved in putting on an annual Fair is all the risk of debt this group of volunteers are able to accept.) then plans would be drawn up for new facilities.
So now as 2002 is upon us plans are being drawn up for a new multi purpose building. We are hopeful we will get funding from the provincial government as a special project. All avenues for funding will be pursued. Its exciting to plan new buildings that will stand proudly beside the 100 year old Dance Hall and will hopefully be the source of memories that can compare to those held by our grandparents ….. the boy’s grandmother was so thrilled to dance with at the Fair dance and the memories they made as they married and now their great grandchildren are making Fair memories of their own!
As you can imagine a Fair with a 151-year history have a lot of great and interesting stories. As we look forward to the 152nd Stanley Fair and our new building we would be thrilled to share some of our memories and future ambitions with you and your viewers. The Stanley Fair is held in September.

This year 2004, the 154th Stanley Fair was held September 23, 24 and 25. Fair goers were given a wide variety of events and displays to enjoy. The draft horse show provided an opportunity to see these gentle giants proudly parade around the ring decked out in their finest harness.

There were two horse pulls held. These demonstrations of the strength of these workhorses remind us of the important role that these horses played in the survival of the early settlers.

The ingenuity of one of the early settlers was showcased in a display that represented the workshop of Alfred Pringle. Last year his family donated several of Mr. Pringle’s tools to the fair. A small room in the Dance Hall was renovated where the band saw and wood lathe were set up. Large photos of Mr. Pringle working the machinery he designed and built in his Williamsburg workshop enhanced the display. Also on display were articles he made. It is hoped that a pamphlet detailing his life and accomplishments will be prepared in the near future.

The usual exhibits of jams, jellies, baking, quilts, vegetables, flowers, artwork and children’s work provided an amazing display of the talent in our area. The Agricultural Society is revising the Exhibitor’s Manual and Prize List in 2005. They would welcome any suggestions for changes you would like to see. (Stanley Agricultural Society # 35, 34-1 Main St., Stanley, NB, E6B 1A4)

Class visits from Stanley Elementary and Stanley Middle School were guided around the Fair. In the Agricultural Awareness building they were told about farm safety, shown a wide variety of products produced from NB farms and a display of non-food items containing agricultural products. Games such as match the seed to the vegetable it produces, match the mother animal with her baby and a spin the wheel quiz with questions on agriculture were fun and educational. The Agricultural Awareness display also included a display of rug hooking. Members of the Heritage Rug Hooking Guild of Fredericton shared their enthusiasm for rug hooking and gave a brief history of rug hooking in this area.

Another very popular feature of the fair was the small animal display. The variety of animals included llamas, alpacas, sheep, rabbits, goats and cows. Several birds including peacocks, turkeys and chickens completed the display.

The recently expanded stage in the Old Dance Hall was the venue for two variety shows, the Baby Contest and an original play by the Stanley Players theatre group. The Pet Contest was moved outside due to the number and size of entries that included llamas. For the first time in decades the Fair Dance was held in the Old Dance Hall. A team of volunteers moved out all the exhibits and secured them in the Root House. The Dance Hall was then set up for a dance. Although it couldn’t rival the dances of the past those who attended had a great time.

Much has changed since that first fair 154 years ago but the fair continues to focus on the vital importance of agriculture. Looking ahead to next year the hope is to celebrate the accomplishments of the early settlers while providing a fair that is relevant to today’s market. Several positive suggestions were made in the boxes provided at the fair. If you have any suggestions for next year’s fair please send them to the address above. The Agricultural Society welcomes new members.



The 2006 Stanley Fair begins with the Community Opening Dinner that marks the official opening on Wednesday, September 20 at 6:30. The gates open at 9am on Thursday, Friday and Saturday with several exciting events and activities each day.
Much has changed since that first fair in 1851 but some things remain the same, the Stanley Fair is still the place to meet family, friends and neighbours.



Westmorland County Agricultural
In 1967 Willian (Bill) Balzer went to Frederiction to obtain a Centennial Grant to begin a Petitcodiac Fair Exhibit Hall.

In 1971 Fred McKillop, who was then Mayor of Petitcodiac, Hilda MacPherson and Marjorie Dickie joined Bill and his dream. Another trip to Frederiction, this time to have the Fair incorporated as the Westmorland County Agric. Fair. This year to honour Bill and his dream, a sign was unveiled at the Exhibit Hall.

One of the first Directors, Herb Keirstead was chosen to be the Parade Marshall. Herb grew up in Havelock, N.B. and has lived in the Village of Petitcodiac since 1954. He and his wife Shirley raised three sons and one daughter, and their family has now grown to include five grandchildren. Herb is retired from Canada Cement Lafarge and throughout his life has always been very involved in his community. Herb was on the committee that started the first Westmorland County Agricultural Fair in 1967. He organized the light horse show for several years. He himself has been involved with horses and horse shows as a competitor, organizer, ringmaster, judge and inspector for the Canadian Sport Horse.

Fair

Woodstock Old Home week Agricultural Fair