Fairgrounds, Cobleskill, NY
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In the history of the Fair, is there one event that stands out?

Well actually, yes. In 1901, the first automobile Cobleskill ever saw made its appearance at the fair, and it was built by Mr. C. E. Burgett in Middleburgh. It was a two-cylinder steamer, and it was the biggest attraction the Fair ever saw. Although people thought it would never replace the horse, everyone wanted a close look. The car was demonstrated on the racetrack in front of the grandstand.

We always like to see nice weather during fair week. Has the weather ever been a serious problem for the Fairgrounds?

Yes, it has. In 1938, there was a flood of the Cobleskill Creek which borders the fairgrounds. It rained for three days, and finally, the Fair was closed and people and animals were moved to higher ground. Several animals were lost in the water as the water level rose one foot an hour. The Lark Street School was opened up for fair workers, and the Red Cross provided food and blankets. One of the buildings which housed pigs broke in two, and several pigs survived, swimming great distances into town and feasting in people's gardens!

 

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