The old Douglas County Fair was probably my first exposure, ever, to rural culture. I remember taking in such things as the authentic handicrafts, the small animals, poultry, and such. Most surprising, I admit, were the smells of the animal exhibits. Waterloo was a genuine small town, then isolated from Big City Omaha.Brad wrote:Rural county fairs are great. What ever this currently Douglas County fair is, is just lame.
Of course there were the rides and the local bands, and I remember a comedy act one night.
A few years later I was tapped to do some volunteer work at a booth there, of a political nature (RCAR, now RCRC). This was still out at Waterloo, and it was an educational experience, very much rubbing in the difference in attitudes between the late 1970 red and blue factions. Yes, I felt outnumbered out there.
It was never the same after it left Waterloo! More like, as was said, a traveling carnival.
Now the Sarpy fair is still far more authentic!