Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
AGRICULTURAL FAIR
AGRICULTURAL FAIR. The 1860 Agricultural Fair was the first large fair ever held in Dubuque County. Organized by a group of local businessmen who formed an agricultural society, the fair was held on September 19-21 at TIVOLI GARDENS.
The opening day of the fair saw six hundred dollars collected in admission fees. Transportation was provided by an omnibus from the JULIEN HOUSE for ten cents. There were over five hundred exhibits ranging from farm animals to fruits, vegetables, wood carvings, paintings, manufactured clothing and cigars. Those judged having the best exhibits received cash prizes or premiums.
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Source:
Kruse, Len. "Having Fun," My Old Dubuque, Dubuque, Iowa: Center for Dubuque History, 2000, 9. 310
