DUBUQUE COUNTY FAIR - Revision history

Randylyon at 01:17, 3 April 2024

2024-04-03T01:17:57Z

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	In June 1954, the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors leased 66-acres of land at the [[DUBUQUE COUNTY HOME]] to the Dubuque County Fair Association to establish a permanent county fair site. (4) In August, 1954, the [[TELEGRAPH HERALD]] announced the "first annual Dubuque County Fair...at Iowa's newest fairgrounds." The three day event held in tents, featuring a midway with at least six carnival rides, was said to be larger and "more complete" than either the Tri-State Expositions or 4-H Shows.		In June 1954, the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors leased 66-acres of land at the [[DUBUQUE COUNTY HOME]] to the Dubuque County Fair Association to establish a permanent county fair site. (4) In August, 1954, the [[TELEGRAPH HERALD]] announced the "first annual Dubuque County Fair...at Iowa's newest fairgrounds." The three day event held in tents, featuring a midway with at least six carnival rides, was said to be larger and "more complete" than either the Tri-State Expositions or 4-H Shows.

	In October 1954 the announcement was made that the fair would get its first permanent structure. A 4-H beef barn would be erected on the fairgrounds using volunteer labor. At the same time a County Fair Fund drive with a goal of $153,000 was presented. A canvass of the county's 2,064 farms would be made first followed by towns, cities, business and industries. Each township was assigned a drive captain. It was hoped at a minimum to construct three livestock barns and a combination girl's and women's building before the next fair. (5)		In October 1954 the announcement was made that the fair would get its first permanent structure. A 4-H beef barn would be erected on the fairgrounds using volunteer labor. At the same time, a County Fair Fund drive with a goal of $153,000 was presented. A canvass of the county's 2,064 farms would be made first followed by towns, cities, business and industries. Each township was assigned a drive captain. It was hoped at a minimum to construct three livestock barns and a combination girl's and women's building before the next fair. (5)

	The second annual county fair began on August 16, 1955 and ran until August 18th. Those who attended the previous year's fair welcomed many new additions. Previously visitors had to park half a mile away from the entrance and walk. In 1955 a 5,000 car capacity parking area was unveiled in the northwest section of the fairgrounds. Other improvements included drinking fountains, paved aisles in the livestock barns and exhibition tents, an amphitheater for cattle judging and sales and overhead lights along the promenade. An estimated 130 commercial exhibits were housed in two tents and hundreds of feet of open ground. Entertainment included a horse show, horse races, American Legion drum and bugle corps, boxing matches, and carnival rides. Admission was fifty cents for adults and twenty-five cents for children. (6)		The second annual county fair began on August 16, 1955 and ran until August 18th. Those who attended the previous year's fair welcomed many new additions. Previously visitors had to park half a mile away from the entrance and walk. In 1955 a 5,000 car capacity parking area was unveiled in the northwest section of the fairgrounds. Other improvements included drinking fountains, paved aisles in the livestock barns and exhibition tents, an amphitheater for cattle judging and sales and overhead lights along the promenade. An estimated 130 commercial exhibits were housed in two tents and hundreds of feet of open ground. Entertainment included a horse show, horse races, American Legion drum and bugle corps, boxing matches, and carnival rides. Admission was fifty cents for adults and twenty-five cents for children. (6)
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	[[Image:dcfair.png\|right\|thumb\|200px\|]]In 1997 with concerns about declining attendance (down 10,000 in 1996) and estimates placing the fair at least $400,000 in debt, Paul Vaassen, the Dubuque County Fair Association manager since 1983, was fired by a vote of 22-14. (9) Before the meeting was through, two board members had resigned and the board president had stepped down. Ray Grimes, one of the board' vice-presidents, was chosen as interim manager. (10)		[[Image:dcfair.png\|right\|thumb\|200px\|]]In 1997 with concerns about declining attendance (down 10,000 in 1996) and estimates placing the fair at least $400,000 in debt, Paul Vaassen, the Dubuque County Fair Association manager since 1983, was fired by a vote of 22-14. (9) Before the meeting was through, two board members had resigned and the board president had stepped down. Ray Grimes, one of the board' vice-presidents, was chosen as interim manager. (10)

	Paula Jo Wolfe, the new manager, continued to operate with a 45-member board despite an attempt in November, 1997 to table for one month nominations to fill four positions. The election went ahead ~~and~~ the four positions were filled. (11) Later in the month, a committee was created to develop a business plan for the association. It met once before being called to a halt by the executive board until Wolfe could be involved. (12)		Paula Jo Wolfe, the new manager, continued to operate with a 45-member board despite an attempt in November, 1997 to table for one month nominations to fill four positions. The election went ahead; the four positions were filled. (11) Later in the month, a committee was created to develop a business plan for the association. It met once before being called to a halt by the executive board until Wolfe could be involved. (12)

	Fundraising and making the fairgrounds a showplace were the themes that began 1998. January 23, 1998 was the Blue Ribbon Banquet, a $50 a plate prime rib dinner and dance. Other events included the Blue Ribbon Auction scheduled for March 28th at which donations were to be sold with the proceeds going to the association. Reducing the debt of the fair association was the object. A total of $75,000 had been raised since August 1997. (13) In March the fair board voted unanimously to lease the fairground's Sunday night races to Al Frieden Inc. for the April 26th to September 3rd racing season for $1,680 per evening with at least ten racing days guaranteed per season. (14) The "blue ribbon" theme was carried into May with the "Blue Ribbon Beautification Project." Seeking to counter the chain-link fence with barbed wire appearance, a committee proposed eye-appealing displays throughout the grounds to create community pride. (15)		Fundraising and making the fairgrounds a showplace were the themes that began 1998. January 23, 1998 was the Blue Ribbon Banquet, a $50 a plate prime rib dinner and dance. Other events included the Blue Ribbon Auction scheduled for March 28th at which donations were to be sold with the proceeds going to the association. Reducing the debt of the fair association was the object. A total of $75,000 had been raised since August 1997. (13) In March the fair board voted unanimously to lease the fairground's Sunday night races to Al Frieden Inc. for the April 26th to September 3rd racing season for $1,680 per evening with at least ten racing days guaranteed per season. (14) The "blue ribbon" theme was carried into May with the "Blue Ribbon Beautification Project." Seeking to counter the chain-link fence with barbed wire appearance, a committee proposed eye-appealing displays throughout the grounds to create community pride. (15)

Randylyon at 17:33, 8 March 2024

2024-03-08T17:33:52Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:33, 8 March 2024
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	Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band		Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band

	See: [[DUBUQUE (STATE OF)		See: [[DUBUQUE (STATE OF)]]

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Randylyon at 17:33, 8 March 2024

2024-03-08T17:33:31Z

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	2. "All Ready for Tri-State Fair," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 28, 1906		2. "All Ready for Tri-State Fair," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 28, 1906

	3. "Plans for Event Are Announced," Telegraph-Herald, July 19, 1942, p. 17		3. "Plans for Event Are Announced," ''Telegraph-Herald'', July 19, 1942, p. 17

	4. Germanson, Ken. "County Fair to Get 1st Permanent Barn," ''Telegraph Herald'', October 10, 1954 Dubuque News, p. 1		4. Germanson, Ken. "County Fair to Get 1st Permanent Barn," ''Telegraph Herald'', October 10, 1954 Dubuque News, p. 1
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	23. Kelsey, Elizabeth, "Dubuque County Fair Reports More than 43,000 Attendees," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 4, 2022, p. 2A		23. Kelsey, Elizabeth, "Dubuque County Fair Reports More than 43,000 Attendees," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 4, 2022, p. 2A

	24. Fisher, Benjamin, "Dubuque County ~~Fai~~ Reports 42,500 Patrons," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 2, 2023 p 2A		24. Fisher, Benjamin, "Dubuque County Fair Reports 42,500 Patrons," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 2, 2023 p 2A

	[[Category: Events]]		[[Category: Events]]
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Randylyon at 17:32, 8 March 2024

2024-03-08T17:32:48Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:32, 8 March 2024
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	Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band		Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band

			See: [[DUBUQUE (STATE OF)

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Randylyon at 23:33, 13 August 2023

2023-08-13T23:33:54Z

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	Attendance in 2018 rose to 68,000 people--the highest turnout in a decade. (22)		Attendance in 2018 rose to 68,000 people--the highest turnout in a decade. (22)

	The [[PANDEMIC]] led to a drastic attendance decline with 11,271 attending the fair in 2020. This rebounded to 50,103 in 2021 only to slip to 43,756 in 2022. (23)		The [[PANDEMIC]] led to a drastic attendance decline with 11,271 attending the fair in 2020. This rebounded to 50,103 in 2021 only to slip to 43,756 in 2022. (23) Unseasonably hot weather and a thunderstorm that caused the cancellation of a concert led the attendance in 2023 to slip to 42,500. (24)

	Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band		Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band
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	23. Kelsey, Elizabeth, "Dubuque County Fair Reports More than 43,000 Attendees," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 4, 2022, p. 2A		23. Kelsey, Elizabeth, "Dubuque County Fair Reports More than 43,000 Attendees," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 4, 2022, p. 2A

			24. Fisher, Benjamin, "Dubuque County Fai Reports 42,500 Patrons," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 2, 2023 p 2A

	[[Category: Events]]		[[Category: Events]]
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Randylyon at 19:35, 12 August 2022

2022-08-12T19:35:21Z

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	Attendance in 2018 rose to 68,000 people--the highest turnout in a decade. (22)		Attendance in 2018 rose to 68,000 people--the highest turnout in a decade. (22)

			The [[PANDEMIC]] led to a drastic attendance decline with 11,271 attending the fair in 2020. This rebounded to 50,103 in 2021 only to slip to 43,756 in 2022. (23)

	Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band		Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band
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	22. Montgomery, Jeff,"Dubuque County Fair Officials Eye Another Big Year," ''Telegraph Herald'', July 22, 2019, p. 1		22. Montgomery, Jeff,"Dubuque County Fair Officials Eye Another Big Year," ''Telegraph Herald'', July 22, 2019, p. 1

			23. Kelsey, Elizabeth, "Dubuque County Fair Reports More than 43,000 Attendees," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 4, 2022, p. 2A

	[[Category: Events]]		[[Category: Events]]
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Randylyon at 02:41, 16 June 2021

2021-06-16T02:41:09Z

Randylyon at 23:37, 1 August 2019

2019-08-01T23:37:29Z

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	In 2015 the attendance at the fair hit 60,001 which was an increase of about 7% over 2014. (20)		In 2015 the attendance at the fair hit 60,001 which was an increase of about 7% over 2014. (20)

	By 2016 the organizers of the fair had reversed their financial situation. In the past , the fair association had requested a $100,000 loan from the county. Better weather resulting in higher attendance and decreased spending resulted in the fair operating in the black. (21)		By 2016 the organizers of the fair had reversed their financial situation. In the past, the fair association had requested a $100,000 loan from the county. Better weather resulting in higher attendance and decreased spending resulted in the fair operating in the black. (21)

			Attendance in 2018 rose to 68,000 people--the highest turnout in a decade. (22)

	Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band		Interstate Battery Advertisement (Dubuque County Fair. Video courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/ykyguidiiyr/) YouTube: https://www.ispot.tv/ad/Avwc/interstate-batteries-rock-band
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	21. Descorbeth, Shirley. "Dubuque County Fair on Track Financially, Kicks Off Tuesday," KWWL.com. July 25, 2016. Online: http://www.kwwl.com/story/32529346/2016/07/25/dubuque-county-fair-on-track-financially-kicks-off-tuesday		21. Descorbeth, Shirley. "Dubuque County Fair on Track Financially, Kicks Off Tuesday," KWWL.com. July 25, 2016. Online: http://www.kwwl.com/story/32529346/2016/07/25/dubuque-county-fair-on-track-financially-kicks-off-tuesday

			22. Montgomery, Jeff,"Dubuque County Fair Officials Eye Another Big Year," ''Telegraph Herald'', July 22, 2019, p. 1

	[[Category: Events]]		[[Category: Events]]
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Randylyon at 02:51, 5 April 2019

2019-04-05T02:51:44Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:51, 5 April 2019
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	Fundraising and making the fairgrounds a showplace were the themes that began 1998. January 23, 1998 was the Blue Ribbon Banquet, a $50 a plate prime rib dinner and dance. Other events included the Blue Ribbon Auction scheduled for March 28th at which donations were to be sold with the proceeds going to the association. Reducing the debt of the fair association was the object. A total of $75,000 had been raised since August 1997. (13) In March the fair board voted unanimously to lease the fairground's Sunday night races to Al Frieden Inc. for the April 26th to September 3rd racing season for $1,680 per evening with at least ten racing days guaranteed per season. (14) The "blue ribbon" theme was carried into May with the "Blue Ribbon Beautification Project." Seeking to counter the chain-link fence with barbed wire appearance, a committee proposed eye-appealing displays throughout the grounds to create community pride. (15)		Fundraising and making the fairgrounds a showplace were the themes that began 1998. January 23, 1998 was the Blue Ribbon Banquet, a $50 a plate prime rib dinner and dance. Other events included the Blue Ribbon Auction scheduled for March 28th at which donations were to be sold with the proceeds going to the association. Reducing the debt of the fair association was the object. A total of $75,000 had been raised since August 1997. (13) In March the fair board voted unanimously to lease the fairground's Sunday night races to Al Frieden Inc. for the April 26th to September 3rd racing season for $1,680 per evening with at least ten racing days guaranteed per season. (14) The "blue ribbon" theme was carried into May with the "Blue Ribbon Beautification Project." Seeking to counter the chain-link fence with barbed wire appearance, a committee proposed eye-appealing displays throughout the grounds to create community pride. (15)

	In May, 2014 the Dubuque County Fair Association sought financial assistance from the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors. Lower attendance and increased energy costs had led to losses of $121,570 the previous year. (16) In July the Fair Association announced that nearly 56,000 people attended the fair. This was down about 2,000 from 2013 and was below estimated of event organizers who anticipated between 60,000 to 70,000. (17) In September the fair organizers asked the county supervisors for a $30,000 loan to pay the remainder of a $100,000 line of credit. The 2014 fair recorded net income of $117,827.72. (18)		[[Image:50yr.png\|right\|thumb\|200px\|50 Year Pin for the fair.]]In May, 2014 the Dubuque County Fair Association sought financial assistance from the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors. Lower attendance and increased energy costs had led to losses of $121,570 the previous year. (16) In July the Fair Association announced that nearly 56,000 people attended the fair. This was down about 2,000 from 2013 and was below estimated of event organizers who anticipated between 60,000 to 70,000. (17) In September the fair organizers asked the county supervisors for a $30,000 loan to pay the remainder of a $100,000 line of credit. The 2014 fair recorded net income of $117,827.72. (18)

	The Dubuque County Fair board voted to reduce its size from 45 members to 24--eight elected each year to three year terms. (19)		The Dubuque County Fair board voted to reduce its size from 45 members to 24--eight elected each year to three year terms. (19)

Randylyon at 20:28, 25 February 2018

2018-02-25T20:28:06Z

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	[[Image:dcfair.jpg\|left\|thumb\|~~350px~~\|Photo courtesy: Jim Massey]]Dubuque County Fair. Residents of Dubuque County held fairs for many years before the events proved successful. Much of this early work was done by the [[NORTHWESTERN AGRICULTURAL MECHANICAL ASSOCIATION]]. In 1864 the County Agricultural Fair Grounds were located near [[EAGLE POINT]]. A track was present which was used for a trotting tournament in June 1864. (1)		[[Image:dcfair.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Jim Massey]]Dubuque County Fair. Residents of Dubuque County held fairs for many years before the events proved successful. Much of this early work was done by the [[NORTHWESTERN AGRICULTURAL MECHANICAL ASSOCIATION]]. In 1864 the County Agricultural Fair Grounds were located near [[EAGLE POINT]]. A track was present which was used for a trotting tournament in June 1864. (1)

	On September 1, 1884, what was billed as the Interstate Fair attracted the curious to see such exhibits as a demonstration of "type writing," a cream separator which promised to revolutionize the separation of milk and cream, and new fashions.		On September 1, 1884, what was billed as the Interstate Fair attracted the curious to see such exhibits as a demonstration of "type writing," a cream separator which promised to revolutionize the separation of milk and cream, and new fashions.

	The first permanent fairgrounds were built in Cascade. Organization plans culminated on June 19, 1891, when the articles of incorporation for the Cascade Driving Park and Fairground Association were published. Efforts to hold the event in Dubuque had failed, according to some accounts of the time, because the proposed industrial focus of the fair had not been appealing to the farmers of the county.		[[Image:tstate1.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The first permanent fairgrounds were built in Cascade. Organization plans culminated on June 19, 1891, when the articles of incorporation for the Cascade Driving Park and Fairground Association were published. Efforts to hold the event in Dubuque had failed, according to some accounts of the time, because the proposed industrial focus of the fair had not been appealing to the farmers of the county.

	~~[[Image:carnival.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|]]~~Dubuque again attempted to sponsor an Interstate Carnival from October 3-7, 1899. The main event was "Pain's Gorgeous Spectacle" depicting "Dewey's Victory at Manila" in the Spanish-American War. Although it is not clear how the presentation was staged, a reporter for the ''Dubuque Daily Times'' reported that carloads of scenery and hundreds of players were involved. Advertisements also called for an evening display of fireworks staged by James Pain,"the great firework's king."		Dubuque again attempted to sponsor an Interstate Carnival from October 3-7, 1899. The main event was "Pain's Gorgeous Spectacle" depicting "Dewey's Victory at Manila" in the Spanish-American War. Although it is not clear how the presentation was staged, a reporter for the ''Dubuque Daily Times'' reported that carloads of scenery and hundreds of players were involved. Advertisements also called for an evening display of fireworks staged by James Pain,"the great firework's king."

	The Cascade Fair and Driving Park Association abandoned attempts to sponsor the annual event in 1901.		The Cascade Fair and Driving Park Association abandoned attempts to sponsor the annual event in 1901.

	[[Image:imp158.jpg\|left\|thumb\|~~300px''~~\|Dubuque Enterprise'' announced the upcoming fair. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding.]]		[[Image:imp158.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Dubuque Enterprise'' announced the upcoming fair. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding.]]
	In April 1904 the Dubuque Tri-State Fair Association was announced. The association had fifteen directors. The officers included president, C.J. W. Saunders; treasurer, W.B.Baumgartner, and Col. J.W. Patterson, secretary. On September 4, 1904, Dubuque residents were informed that the "Tri-State Fair" which was billed as the "first fair in twenty years" would be held from September 5th to the 10th. Determined to make the event successful, Friday was declared "Dubuque Day," and local merchants closed their businesses to allow their employees time to attend. Visitors could view exhibits of livestock, but the greatest attention was paid to trained elk diving fifty feet into a tank of water and a performer doing her "radium dance." Held at [[NUTWOOD PARK]], the fair featured horse racing and promises that the grounds would be kept in excellent condition the entire year.		In April 1904 the Dubuque Tri-State Fair Association was announced. The association had fifteen directors. The officers included president, C.J. W. Saunders; treasurer, W.B.Baumgartner, and Col. J.W. Patterson, secretary. On September 4, 1904, Dubuque residents were informed that the "Tri-State Fair" which was billed as the "first fair in twenty years" would be held from September 5th to the 10th. Determined to make the event successful, Friday was declared "Dubuque Day," and local merchants closed their businesses to allow their employees time to attend. Visitors could view exhibits of livestock, but the greatest attention was paid to trained elk diving fifty feet into a tank of water and a performer doing her "radium dance." Held at [[NUTWOOD PARK]], the fair featured horse racing and promises that the grounds would be kept in excellent condition the entire year.

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:41, 16 June 2021
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	[[Image:tstate1.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The first permanent fairgrounds were built in Cascade. Organization plans culminated on June 19, 1891, when the articles of incorporation for the Cascade Driving Park and Fairground Association were published. Efforts to hold the event in Dubuque had failed, according to some accounts of the time, because the proposed industrial focus of the fair had not been appealing to the farmers of the county.		[[Image:tstate1.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The first permanent fairgrounds were built in Cascade. Organization plans culminated on June 19, 1891, when the articles of incorporation for the Cascade Driving Park and Fairground Association were published. Efforts to hold the event in Dubuque had failed, according to some accounts of the time, because the proposed industrial focus of the fair had not been appealing to the farmers of the county.

	Dubuque again attempted to sponsor an Interstate Carnival from October 3-7, 1899. The main event was "Pain's Gorgeous Spectacle" depicting "Dewey's Victory at Manila" in the ~~Spanish~~-~~American War~~. Although it is not clear how the presentation was staged, a reporter for the ''Dubuque Daily Times'' reported that carloads of scenery and hundreds of players were involved. Advertisements also called for an evening display of fireworks staged by James Pain,"the great firework's king."		Dubuque again attempted to sponsor an Interstate Carnival from October 3-7, 1899. The main event was "Pain's Gorgeous Spectacle" depicting "Dewey's Victory at Manila" in the [[SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR]]. Although it is not clear how the presentation was staged, a reporter for the ''Dubuque Daily Times'' reported that carloads of scenery and hundreds of players were involved. Advertisements also called for an evening display of fireworks staged by James Pain,"the great firework's king."

	The Cascade Fair and Driving Park Association abandoned attempts to sponsor the annual event in 1901.		The Cascade Fair and Driving Park Association abandoned attempts to sponsor the annual event in 1901.

	[[Image:imp158.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Dubuque Enterprise'' announced the upcoming fair. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding.]]		[[Image:imp158.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Dubuque Enterprise'' announced the upcoming fair. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding.]]
	In April 1904 the Dubuque Tri-State Fair Association was announced. The association had fifteen directors. The officers included president, C.J. W. ~~Saunders~~; treasurer, W.B.Baumgartner, and Col. J.W. Patterson, secretary. On September 4, 1904, Dubuque residents were informed that the "Tri-State Fair" ~~which was~~ billed as the "first fair in twenty years" would be held from September 5th to the 10th. Determined to make the event successful, Friday was declared "Dubuque Day," and local merchants closed their businesses to allow their employees time to attend. Visitors could view exhibits of livestock, but the greatest attention was paid to trained elk diving fifty feet into a tank of water and a performer doing her "radium dance." Held at [[NUTWOOD PARK]], the fair featured horse racing and promises that the grounds would be kept in excellent condition the entire year.		In April 1904 the Dubuque Tri-State Fair Association was announced. The association had fifteen directors. The officers included president, [[SAUNDERS, Charles J. W.\|Charles J. W. SAUNDERS]]; treasurer, W.B.Baumgartner, and Col. J.W. Patterson, secretary. On September 4, 1904, Dubuque residents were informed that the "Tri-State Fair," billed as the "first fair in twenty years," would be held from September 5th to the 10th. Determined to make the event successful, Friday was declared "Dubuque Day," and local merchants closed their businesses to allow their employees time to attend. Visitors could view exhibits of livestock, but the greatest attention was paid to trained elk diving fifty feet into a tank of water and a performer doing her "radium dance." Held at [[NUTWOOD PARK]], the fair featured horse racing and promises that the grounds would be kept in excellent condition the entire year.

	The Tri-County Fair of 1906 drew extra interest with the appearance of Dan Patch and Cresceus, two of the most famous racing horses in the world. There were four stake races that year: the Dubuque, the Union Electric Company, Malting Company, and the Hotel Julien each with a purse of $1,000. Among the shows were the "London Ghost Show," "Old Plantation," "Dreamland," "Glass Blowers," and "Princess Corena and Her Retinue of Court Maidens." (2)		The Tri-County Fair of 1906 drew extra interest with the appearance of Dan Patch and Cresceus, two of the most famous racing horses in the world. There were four stake races that year: the Dubuque, the Union Electric Company, Malting Company, and the Hotel Julien each with a purse of $1,000. Among the shows were the "London Ghost Show," "Old Plantation," "Dreamland," "Glass Blowers," and "Princess Corena and Her Retinue of Court Maidens." (2)
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	The second annual county fair began on August 16, 1955 and ran until August 18th. Those who attended the previous year's fair welcomed many new additions. Previously visitors had to park half a mile away from the entrance and walk. In 1955 a 5,000 car capacity parking area was unveiled in the northwest section of the fairgrounds. Other improvements included drinking fountains, paved aisles in the livestock barns and exhibition tents, an amphitheater for cattle judging and sales and overhead lights along the promenade. An estimated 130 commercial exhibits were housed in two tents and hundreds of feet of open ground. Entertainment included a horse show, horse races, American Legion drum and bugle corps, boxing matches, and carnival rides. Admission was fifty cents for adults and twenty-five cents for children. (6)		The second annual county fair began on August 16, 1955 and ran until August 18th. Those who attended the previous year's fair welcomed many new additions. Previously visitors had to park half a mile away from the entrance and walk. In 1955 a 5,000 car capacity parking area was unveiled in the northwest section of the fairgrounds. Other improvements included drinking fountains, paved aisles in the livestock barns and exhibition tents, an amphitheater for cattle judging and sales and overhead lights along the promenade. An estimated 130 commercial exhibits were housed in two tents and hundreds of feet of open ground. Entertainment included a horse show, horse races, American Legion drum and bugle corps, boxing matches, and carnival rides. Admission was fifty cents for adults and twenty-five cents for children. (6)

	In August 1992 county supervisors boycotted the opening day of the fair for the first time in many years. They were upset that Paul Vaassen, Dubuque County Fair Manager, blamed the one dollar increase in general admission on the [[IOWA TRUST FUND]] scandal. The supervisors eliminated the $50,000 contribution to the fair's general fund because of the nearly $3.9 million in county money tied up in the fund. (7)		In August 1992 county supervisors boycotted the opening day of the fair for the first time in many years. They were upset that Paul Vaassen, Dubuque County Fair Manager, blamed the one dollar increase in general admission on the [[IOWA TRUST FUND]] scandal. The supervisors eliminated the $50,000 contribution to the fair's general fund because of the nearly $3.9 million in county money tied up in the trust fund scandal. (7)

	In February 1993 it was announced that the county fair would be moved to July in 1994. Fair organizers said they were forced to make the change after the Iowa State Fair Board decided to move its event earlier. The new date ~~would eliminate~~ any overlap in scheduling. (8)		In February 1993 it was announced that the county fair would be moved to July in 1994. Fair organizers said they were forced to make the change after the Iowa State Fair Board decided to move its event earlier. The new date eliminated any overlap in scheduling. (8)

	[[Image:dcfair.png\|right\|thumb\|200px\|]]In 1997 with concerns about declining attendance (down 10,000 in 1996) and estimates placing the fair at least $400,000 in debt, Paul Vaassen, the Dubuque County Fair Association manager since 1983, was fired by a vote of 22-14. (9) Before the meeting was through, two board members had resigned and the board president had stepped down. Ray Grimes, one of the board' vice-presidents, was chosen as interim manager. (10)		[[Image:dcfair.png\|right\|thumb\|200px\|]]In 1997 with concerns about declining attendance (down 10,000 in 1996) and estimates placing the fair at least $400,000 in debt, Paul Vaassen, the Dubuque County Fair Association manager since 1983, was fired by a vote of 22-14. (9) Before the meeting was through, two board members had resigned and the board president had stepped down. Ray Grimes, one of the board' vice-presidents, was chosen as interim manager. (10)
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	Fundraising and making the fairgrounds a showplace were the themes that began 1998. January 23, 1998 was the Blue Ribbon Banquet, a $50 a plate prime rib dinner and dance. Other events included the Blue Ribbon Auction scheduled for March 28th at which donations were to be sold with the proceeds going to the association. Reducing the debt of the fair association was the object. A total of $75,000 had been raised since August 1997. (13) In March the fair board voted unanimously to lease the fairground's Sunday night races to Al Frieden Inc. for the April 26th to September 3rd racing season for $1,680 per evening with at least ten racing days guaranteed per season. (14) The "blue ribbon" theme was carried into May with the "Blue Ribbon Beautification Project." Seeking to counter the chain-link fence with barbed wire appearance, a committee proposed eye-appealing displays throughout the grounds to create community pride. (15)		Fundraising and making the fairgrounds a showplace were the themes that began 1998. January 23, 1998 was the Blue Ribbon Banquet, a $50 a plate prime rib dinner and dance. Other events included the Blue Ribbon Auction scheduled for March 28th at which donations were to be sold with the proceeds going to the association. Reducing the debt of the fair association was the object. A total of $75,000 had been raised since August 1997. (13) In March the fair board voted unanimously to lease the fairground's Sunday night races to Al Frieden Inc. for the April 26th to September 3rd racing season for $1,680 per evening with at least ten racing days guaranteed per season. (14) The "blue ribbon" theme was carried into May with the "Blue Ribbon Beautification Project." Seeking to counter the chain-link fence with barbed wire appearance, a committee proposed eye-appealing displays throughout the grounds to create community pride. (15)

	[[Image:50yr.png\|right\|thumb\|200px\|50 Year Pin for the fair.]]In May, 2014 the Dubuque County Fair Association sought financial assistance from the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors. Lower attendance and increased energy costs had led to losses of $121,570 the previous year. (16) In July the Fair Association announced that nearly 56,000 people attended the fair. This was down about 2,000 from 2013 and was below ~~estimated~~ of event organizers who anticipated between 60,000 to 70,000. (17) In September the fair organizers asked the county supervisors for a $30,000 loan to pay the remainder of a $100,000 line of credit. The 2014 fair recorded net income of $117,827.72. (18)		[[Image:50yr.png\|right\|thumb\|200px\|50 Year Pin for the fair.]]In May, 2014 the Dubuque County Fair Association sought financial assistance from the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors. Lower attendance and increased energy costs had led to losses of $121,570 the previous year. (16) In July the Fair Association announced that nearly 56,000 people attended the fair. This was down about 2,000 from 2013 and was below estimates of event organizers who anticipated between 60,000 to 70,000. (17) In September the fair organizers asked the county supervisors for a $30,000 loan to pay the remainder of a $100,000 line of credit. The 2014 fair recorded net income of $117,827.72. (18)

	The Dubuque County Fair board voted to reduce its size from 45 members to 24--eight elected each year to three year terms. (19)		The Dubuque County Fair board voted to reduce its size from 45 members to 24--eight elected each year to three year terms. (19)
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	7. Japsen, Bruce. "Board to Snub Opening," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 10, 1992, p. 1. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=aEyKTaVlRPYC&dat=19920810&printsec=frontpage&hl=en		7. Japsen, Bruce. "Board to Snub Opening," ''Telegraph Herald'', August 10, 1992, p. 1. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=aEyKTaVlRPYC&dat=19920810&printsec=frontpage&hl=en

	8. Japsen, Bruce. "'94 Dubuque County Fair to Move to July," ''Telegraph Herald'', February 13, 1993, p. 3A		8. Japsen, Bruce. "94 Dubuque County Fair to Move to July," ''Telegraph Herald'', February 13, 1993, p. 3A

	9. Bragg, Mary Rae. "Fair Board Votes Out Vaassen," ''Telegraph Herald'', July 30, 1997, p. 1. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=aEyKTaVlRPYC&dat=19970730&printsec=frontpage&hl=en		9. Bragg, Mary Rae. "Fair Board Votes Out Vaassen," ''Telegraph Herald'', July 30, 1997, p. 1. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=aEyKTaVlRPYC&dat=19970730&printsec=frontpage&hl=en