The Altamont Fair was established in
1893. The first fair was that year. At first, most of the exhibits
were in tents and the management was hard-pressed to find stabling
for horses and cattle. The Altamont Fair was only open for three or
four days in August of each year. In the 1920s the fair opened for
two more evenings by installing electric lights and, shortly after,
the addition of fireworks.
The look of the fairgrounds parking
lot has changed a great deal. It went from horse and carriage to modern-day
cars. Also, dress at the fair has changed from fancy gowns and suits
to informal, comfortable attire. The ornate entrance built in 1905
was surrounded by small buildings to the right and left. These buildings
later became offices and, at present, serve as rest rooms for fairgoers.
The gates are preserved in the Fair's museum. One of the main attractions
at the Altamont Fair was one of the first Ferris wheels ever built.
Today the main entrance to the Fairgrounds is easily found by the
large sign on the east side of Route 146 in Altamont.
