WASHINGTON CO. FAIR EXHIBIT NOW ON DISPLAY AT BRENHAM HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Brenham Heritage Museum unveiled a new temporary exhibit on Wednesday that highlights the history of the oldest county fair in Texas.
“Washington County Fair: A Texas Tradition” is on display through September 26th, featuring various photographs, artifacts and memorabilia that celebrate the fair’s legacy.
Created in partnership with the Washington County Fair Association, the exhibit includes old catalog and premium lists, promotional posters, dessert recipes from past Country Creations participants, a saddle on loan from past Fair President Donald Ray Ahrens, and even award-winning green beans from the 1940 Washington County Fair.
Brenham Heritage Museum Vice Chair Brad Tegeler credited Ahrens, who serves on the fair and museum boards, as the driving force behind the creation of the exhibit. Tegeler said the fair is an integral part of Washington County’s history and has supported numerous youth in the community.
According to Ahrens, when the fair started in 1868, it was located where Fireman’s Park is now situated. Ahrens said the fair did not move to the present site at the fairgrounds until 1949-50, a process that took place by hand.
Fair President Ricky Bosse thanked the fair and museum boards for their collaboration in showcasing fair traditions and heritage.
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, with hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To learn more, visit www.bhmtexas.org.
