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History |
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History of the Butler
Farm Show
by LeeRoy
Miller
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It all started with a plowing contest held on the Jack Roe property in the Meridian area in 1947 sponsored by the Machine Dealers Association. The idea was so well received it was decided to form an organization which was later to become the BUTLER FARM SHOW. The next year, 1948, several events were held including a plowing contest, an exhibit of machinery and farm exhibits. It was a one day event. A formal sponsor was needed if the event was to continue. The Machine Dealers Association applied to the General Assembly of Pennsylvania for a charter under the non-profit classification. In 1949 the charter was granted thus began the BUTLER FARM SHOW. |
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A constitution and by-laws were written by a group of local attorneys who donated their time and expertise. The Butler County Extension Service, who was interested in the 4-H clubs and the Vo-Ag students, aided in the initial organization. It was determined that any and all income was to be used to operate the show, make improvements to the show itself and to construct buildings. A Board of Directors was formed, all unpaid. The 1949 show was a three day event, the admission was free. All shows and exhibits were covered by large tents that were placed throughout the grounds. The board projected a need for a large tract of land to house the annual show. A search for the right property took nearly five years. Seven properties were under consideration when in 1955 the board purchased 3 parcels of land (100 acres) at the present location in the Meridian area. In 1957 a three and a half acre lake was constructed with the use of volunteer help and equipment. |
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Three years later, 1958, the agriculture building was constructed. It measures 40 feet by 120 feet and is presently used by the various grange organizations during farm show week. Two cattle barns were erected the same year. They were joined with the agriculture building to form a complex that is connected by a 20 foot runway. Restrooms and a large storage area is included. A third cattle barn was added later and a second water well was drilled outside the Northeast corner of the new building. In 1961 an airplane hanger was built. It measured 42 x 124 feet. Additional hangers have been built over the years, two of which are used by the Farm Products and Arts & Crafts committees. |
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The airstrip was moved to its present location in the same year. The strip measured 2,300 feet and was blacktopped. A group of people from the Meridian area built a special restaurant in 1961. The building was later purchased by the farm show and modernized in 1997. Over the years several improvements have been made to the grounds and building. Horse barns have been added, the C.B. Rangers constructed a large building that is now used as an office and a modern sewage system was built. The sheep and swine building was constructed in 1978, the same year the famous Butler Rodeo began. The Brady Paul Lodge #54 leased ground to construct a building. The building is used for the American Show Case display during farm show week. |
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Perhaps the highlight of the building boom was the construction of two large exhibit buildings at the lower portion of the farm show property, near the lake. They measure 60 x 100 feet. During the winter months they are used to store boats, trailers and cars. The new modern milking parlor was added in 1996. Visitors to the farm show can now view the cows while they are being milked. The show arena is constantly being upgraded with new covered bleachers. The Butler Farm Show will continue to grow and prosper through the dedicated leadership of the Board of Directors and volunteers. * Certain Restrictions Apply |
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