The Great New York State Fair has a long history with many milestone moments.
Here are some keys ones you can use to stump your friends while out at the fairgrounds:
- 1832 – In February the New York State Agricultural Society was founded in Albany by a group of farmers, legislators, and others to promote agricultural improvement and local fairs.
- 1841 – The nation’s first state fair is held in Syracuse, New York. on September 29 & 30th. There an assembled 10,000-15,000 people heard speeches by notables and viewed animal exhibits, a plowing contest, and samples of manufactured goods for the farm and home.
- 1842 – The second New York State Fair is held in Albany, and ushered in an era of growth and travel for the institution.
- 1842-1889 – The fair traveled among 11 different cities—Albany, Auburn, Buffalo, Elmira, New York City, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Syracuse, Utica, and Watertown.
- 1889 – Syracuse Land Co donated to the Agricultural Society a 100-acre tract of land in Geddes (Onondaga County) crossed by railways that facilitated exhibit transport. The project continued through September of 1890.
- 1890s – Burdened with debt from constructing permanent buildings on the site, the Agricultural Society turned to state government for relief. New York State purchased the grounds in 1899 and took over management of the fair the next year, creating the 11-member State Fair Commission appointed by the governor.
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