Latest news with #StateFairofWestVirginia
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The State Fair of West Virginia in the 1940s
FAIRLEA, WV (WVNS) — The State Fair of West Virginia is an event that many people often look forward to throughout the years. However the 1940s brought some changes to the annual event. The State Fair of West Virginia in the Roaring 20s On March 19, 1941, the fair became the State Fair of West Virginia from being previously known as the Greenbrier Valley Fair. The designation came after the fair's potential and popularity was recognized. Although 1941 was an important year for the fair due to the change, events around the world affected the State Fair of West Virginia for many years in the 1940s. World War II cancelled the fair in 1942, 1943, 1944, and 1945, according to information provided on the State Fair of West Virginia's website. The annual event did not make a return until 1946. Due to the cancellation of the fair in 1942, fairgoers had to wait to celebrate the 1941 designation of the State Fair. In the link on the history section of the State Fair of West Virginia's website, the provided information stated that due to World War II, a decision was made by the Board of Governors that reportedly stated: Fashion of the Fair: style trends throughout the last century at the State Fair of West Virginia In taking assessment of the war situation, which has necessitated government restricting of the sale of auto tires, the rationing of gasoline, the regulation and the possible restrictions in the near future of all forms of travel and transportation except that which is absolutely necessary, we recognize an insurmountable obstacle in the way of conducting our fair and whereas, it is also our desire to conform to the cheerfully acquiesce in any action deemed necessary by the government in its war effort, now therefore, in it resolved that we abandon our efforts to operate this year and definitely call off our fair for 1942. Early Fairs and State Fair History link in the history section on the State Fair of WV website Events at the State Fair of West Virginia in the 1940s included events such as horse shows, draft horse shows, horse/harness racing, beef and dairy cattle shows, livestock judging, poultry and fowl exhibits, dog shows, agriculture shows, 4-H Club shows, and fireworks. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The State Fair of West Virginia in the 1950s
FAIRLEA, WV (WVNS) — A sense of normalcy returned to the State Fair of West Virginia in the 1950s thanks to a time of prosperity after the end of the Second World War. Luckily for those that made the Fair a family event, the event went on annually in its fourth decade, thanks to the period of peace after the conclusion of World War II. The 1950s brought with it the typical State Fair staples: animals, connection, and entertainment. Animals at the event were always a big deal and were heavily advertised in newspapers, magazines, and other means. This was especially true for cattle. The State Fair of West Virginia in the 1940s Also as popular as ever were the horses. The equine events have always been a draw for the crowds, from jousting tournaments, horse shows, and harness racing. Interestingly, jousting tournaments were brought to the Fair in 1953 and 1954, with members from the well-known Tuckwiller family taking part in the festivities. Fashion of the Fair: style trends throughout the last century at the State Fair of West Virginia The history section on the State Fair of West Virginia's website stated that 1956 brought another change to the event, as the fairgrounds expanded when the 'Simons Property' was bought, along with land at the south end of the racetrack. The 1950s also brought further additions due to a motion that was passed for the building of a sheep pavilion, to change the rabbit show area to a facility for the pigs, and to create a new rabbit house. Additions and changes were also made to the industrial building in 1958, according to the Fair's website. According to photos from the Greenbrier Historical Society, in 1957, a horse, owned by David and Grace Anne Tuckwiller, broke the track record at the fair during a harness race. Along with the animals, some fairgoers made traditions and even returned to remake memories of their previous times at the Fair. The State Fair of West Virginia not only gives fairgoers a chance to experience fun events and activities, it gives them a chance to make memories that could last a lifetime. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Lewisburg to host its first Juneteenth Celebration
LEWISBURG, WV (WVNS) — The Greenbrier County Juneteenth Steering Committee has teamed up with the Greenbrier Historical Society to announce the first Juneteenth Celebration in Greenbrier County. On June 19, 1865, federal troops, led by General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas taking control of the state and ensuring that all enslaved people were freed. That day became an annual celebration and the name Juneteenth was created (shortened for June 19th). It is a day to be celebrated by all who recognize the importance of freedom. In conjunction with the Greenbrier Historical Society, we have planned an evening to highlight the historical significance of the day. Yvonne Jones | Juneteenth Steering Committee Popular comedian Jeff Dunham brings dummies to State Fair of West Virginia According to a press release, on Thursday, June 19, 2025, the celebration will be marked with an exhibit review and remarks from Maurice Cooley. Details are as follows: 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.: Keynote Speaker – Maurice Cooley in the Old Stone Room at Carnegie Hall 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.: 'Echoes of Slavery' Exhibit Review at the Greenbrier Historical Society North House Museum. Maurice Cooley is the former Associate Vice President of the Marshall University Office of Intercultural Affairs, now retired. Juneteenth recognizes both the pain of the past and the hope for a more just future. As we honor this day, we also lift up the stories of the Black community in Greenbrier County whose lives, labor, and legacies helped shape the region even in the face of injustice and exclusion Janice Cooley | Board of Directors, Greenbrier Historical Society Fashion of the Fair: style trends throughout the last century at the State Fair of West Virginia On June 21, 2025, the Juneteenth Steering Committee is set to hold a celebration at Dorie Miller Park, located on Feamster Road in Lewisburg, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., the release stated. Juneteenth is a time of celebration. It is also a time of reflection upon the stony road we have trodden. The festival provides an opportunity to fellowship with family, friends, and neighbors. Everyone is welcome to attend. Dallas Jones | Juneteenth Steering Committee The event will also have food and drinks, entertainment, information booths, in addition to crafts and games for guests to enjoy. Health screenings will also be available thanks to the Rainelle Medical Center. Entertainment will be provided by DJ Lauryn Trill, The Resurrection Praise Community Choir, J-Mane, and local gospel singers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
State Fair of West Virginia moving forward with $30 million master plan
FAIRLEA, WV (WVNS) – As the State Fair of West Virginia celebrates and reflects on the past 100 years, they are gearing up for the future. State Fair CEO Kelly Collins told 59News they are moving forward with a $30 million master plan over the next several years. What does the State Fair of West Virginia Endowment Fund do? This money will help upgrade and modernize the fairgrounds. She said they have to make concessions in regards to logistics and infrastructure, much like cities do every day. 'Our first project is going to be restoration of the grandstand. It is in great shape, but we want to make sure that it stays that way. We want to increase our campaign and fix some of our camping lots and make them more accessible for folks. There is not a lot of hotel rooms. We have great hotel partners in Lewisburg, but we need more. So, we hope to enhance our campground. We have got some livestock facilities we also want to fix over the next couple of years,' said Collins. Collins said they will have to raise funds to make this plan a reality through methods such as private donors. Some of the other ideas for this money includes more handicapped accessible restrooms and other things to accommodate those with sensory issues. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
It's the 100th anniversary of the State Fair of West Virginia, but how old is it?
FAIRLEA, WV (WVNS) – It is officially the 100th anniversary of the State Fair of West Virginia this year. With the event dating back to the 1920's, the history can be confusing for those who don't know about it. 'I have my own history and love for the fair. But as far as the history and all that stuff, I'm going to leave that up to the pro's.' Kara Dense, President & CEO, Experience Greenbrier Valley Thankfully, we here at 59News had a pro available to us! Kelly Collins with the Chief Executive Officer of the State Fair of West Virginia. Raleigh County Sheriff's Office offers voluntary Special Needs Registry She said the fair started as the Greenbrier Valley Fair and was first incorporated on March 19th of 1921. But the road since 1921 was not always an easy one. There were many bumps along the way. 'Unfortunately, after the 41[1941] fair, we had to cancel from 1942 to 1945 because of World War 2. And then of course we had to cancel in 2020 for the Pandemic.' Kelly Collins, Chief Executive Officer, The State Fair of West Virginia The history and business of the State Fair are over 100 years old, but this will mark the 100th iteration of the event itself. Student Loan repayment changes could impact millions Even so, no matter how old it is, this 100th annual State Fair is promised to have many surprises and smiles on people's faces. 'This area has always been a place that has really stuck out, as far as welcoming people and celebrating our rich heritage and tradition.' Kara Dense, President & CEO, Experience Greenbrier Valley Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
