Making Essex County history since 1848

Text Courtesy of Adirondack History Museum Director Aurora McCaffrey

The first Essex County-Clinton County Fair was organized by Elkanah Watson in 1848. For fifteen years land was rented south of town (Westport)for $150. However, during the period 1885-1889, various parcels were purchased by the Essex County Agricultural Society for $1,500 to form the present grounds. An additional $1,700 was spent to erect the track and buildings. Many buildings have been added to the fairgrounds since then. The Grand Stand and the Agricultural Center were built just after the turn of the century. The many 4-H barns were constructed by volunteers over the years since 4-H began in 1941. In 1985 the historic structures on the fairground were inventoried for the New York State Parks and Recreation Division for Historic Preservation. In 2004, Floral Hall was completely renovated keeping its historic look.