Fair Origins

The Cecil County Fair originated in 1953, when members of the Calvert, Cecilton and Colora Granges met over lunch to discuss the idea. The founding members were Robert Carrion, Bill Groff, Walt Mason, and Ray Mueller, Cecil County’s Agricultural Extension Agent at the time.

The group approached Mr. William DuPont, who owned the property known today as Fair Hill Natural Resources. Mr. DuPont welcomed the idea and was very supportive. In fact, he helped to share the expense of the fledgling fair throughout its first years, along with donating a grandstand and several outbuildings for displays and livestock.

In 1954, the first fair was held. It was a one-day event, held on July 31 from 10 AM to 10 PM. Admission was completely free. Local individuals, organizations, businesses as well as the county commissioners provided the financial support.

There were approximately 752 entries from 204 open and 4-H exhibitors. Prizes were awarded in many categories, including home arts, food, flowers, produce, dairy, beef and horses.

Among the first exhibitors were the Grange, the Homemakers’ Club and the Cecil County PTA. The midway consisted of just two booths – a dart and balloon game and baseball and bottle game! All comers walked away with a prize.

Following a calf scramble, where the winner kept the calf, the evening’s entertainment concluded with a performance by the North East High School Band.

In the years that have followed, the fair – and Cecil County – have changed dramatically. More than 70,000 people attend the 9-day fair. The fair celebrates our agricultural heritage, while providing hands-on learning opportunities for children and adults to explore today’s complex food chain – from animal to vegetable. Entertainment highlights include the ever-popular demolition derby, a professionally-sanctioned rodeo, tractor and truck pulls, plus countless competitions for 4-H youth and county residents to showcase their skills.

On behalf of the all-volunteer fairboard we want to thank you for attending the Cecil County Fair and sharing our rich history while helping us look to the future of farming!