Looking back: County fair adventures

Published 11:53 am Wednesday, July 5, 2023

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In 1929, Interstate Power Co.’s tent at the fair featured electric washing machines, toasters, coffee makers, lamps, radios and cream separators. They were encouraging “electrify your farm.”

Dedication of the 4-H buildings was held during the 1941 fair. Speakers at the event included Thomas E. Wilson, chairman of the National 4-H Club Committee, and his son, Edward F. Wilson, president of Wilson & Co.

Gulbrandson Hardware Co.’s fair booth featured heavy hardware and the latest in farm implements.

The thrill of harness racing was experienced by spectators during the fair. The 1921 fair featured three days of races.

A group poses by the Freeborn County Fair ticket booth. The 1911 fair premium book lists admission tickets as single admission, 25 cents; children, 10 cents; season tickets, 50 cents; and teams, 25 cents for the season.

Sig Haugdahl and his No. 6 Fiat appear in this 1918 photo. The famous racer and former Freeborn County resident appeared at the 1931 fair and broke the Minnesota half-track record with a time of 28 seconds flat on the fairgrounds track. In 1914, Haugdahl placed first in all four motorcycle races at the fair.

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By Linda Evenson

Photos courtesy Freeborn County Historical Museum

The Freeborn County Fair has a history of great entertainment, exhibits, attractions, races and commercial vendors. The 1931 fair was no exception. It promoted a double public wedding, special 4-H exhibits, different acts every day and racing ace Sig Haugdahl. Albert Lea Day was observed on Friday, and businesses agreed to close at 1 o’clock so employees could attend the fair.

A truly remarkable surprise at the 1931 fair was the birth of a baby. The parents were traveling with the carnival and working at the midway. A physician and nurse arrived in time for the delivery. The new mother planned to name the infant after her grandmothers. Fair attendees suggested the baby be named Alberta Lea.

A hundred years ago, the lights on the grounds went out just as the last act was presenting at the Grandstand. It was very dark but the crowd remained orderly. Everyone remained in place. Before the lights returned, the Albert Lea band played two spirited marches and the fireworks started.