Just inside the entry to the Blue Earth County Fairgrounds.
PRIOR TO LAST FRIDAY, I’d never been to the Blue Earth County Fairgrounds, nor even to Garden City, the unincorporated community in which the fairgrounds is located. That would be south of Mankato, along the banks of the Watonwan River.
Log cabins on the fairgrounds include this one from 1860 and a replica of an 1839 cabin.
What a delightful place—like a step back in time.
The beef barn, shaded by an oak tree.
Space for chickens and ducks and geese and such poultry.
Always a fair favorite, the sheep.
Just look at these old-fashioned buildings and imagine the cattle, pigs, poultry and sheep trucked into this scenic spot for the annual showing of the best of the best.
I expect (hope) the 4-H food stand was repaired before the fair.
Imagine 4-Hers clutching coveted ribbons.
The open class exhibit buildings. Look at the splendid old doors on these structures.
Imagine the families and old folks, the neighbors and strangers mingling here to celebrate life in rural Minnesota.
Imagine the young lovers strolling the grounds.
My Aunt Marilyn remembers, more than 50 years ago, attending this fair on a weekday afternoon along with other Blue Earth County employees. “I suppose they don’t do that anymore,” she said.
I expect not, Marilyn.
A posting of fair sponsors just inside the front gate.
Today, August 1, through Saturday, August 3, you can experience this grassroots fair when gates open at the Blue Earth County Fairgrounds/Shady Oaks Campground in Garden City just off U.S. Highway 169.
CLICK HERE for detailed fair information and click here for info about the campground.
BONUS PHOTOS:
It seems every fairgrounds has an old school or church like this one.
An on-site beverage stand.
The Future Farmers of America building.
© Copyright 2013 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
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