8-29-2016 3:37pm

Saline Fair Started in the Halls of Union School

Started in 1936, the Saline Community Fair was the first community fair in Washtenaw County and was held on November 13, one day only, as a means of showing the projects which the FFA boys had completed during that year. It was sponsored by the Saline Chapter of the Future Farmers of America and the Saline Schools cooperating, and was held in the Union School hallways. In 1944 the Saline Fair was reorganized and incorporated as a non-profit corporation. The reorganization provided a structure for expanded community involvement and growth to recognize the skills, talents, recreation and interests of area residents by holding an annual fair. The fair was held at Henne Field until 1966 when it was moved permanently to the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds.

The Saline Fair has always been planned and implemented by volunteers. There are currently 29 volunteer directors on the fairboard and they meet monthly to work on planning and implementing the annual fair. The board continues to reach out to the community, creating partnerships with local businesses, groups, and individuals through sponsorships and various activities. These partnerships and the support of the community makes a significant difference. Contributors to the fair helps them provide the community with a piece of rural tradition, history, childhood memories, agricultural education and family fun.

Earlier this year the fair received a grant from the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee (MSPC) which is helping the fair “Go Green in 2016” through the use of soy cleaning products used on the fairgrounds and soy ink used for printing the fairbooks and other items. While on the fairgrounds this week watch for signs and banners recognizing the fair’s supporters and sponsors.

For a complete schedule of the fair visit www.salinefair.org. You are also invited to follow the fair on Facebook at Saline Community Fair. See you at the fair!