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The State Fair of West Virginia in the 1940s
FAIRLEA, WV (WVNS) — The State Fair of West Virginia is an event that many people often look forward to throughout the years.
However the 1940s brought some changes to the annual event.
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On March 19, 1941, the fair became the State Fair of West Virginia from being previously known as the Greenbrier Valley Fair. The designation came after the fair's potential and popularity was recognized.
Although 1941 was an important year for the fair due to the change, events around the world affected the State Fair of West Virginia for many years in the 1940s.
World War II cancelled the fair in 1942, 1943, 1944, and 1945, according to information provided on the State Fair of West Virginia's website. The annual event did not make a return until 1946. Due to the cancellation of the fair in 1942, fairgoers had to wait to celebrate the 1941 designation of the State Fair.
In the link on the history section of the State Fair of West Virginia's website, the provided information stated that due to World War II, a decision was made by the Board of Governors that reportedly stated:
Fashion of the Fair: style trends throughout the last century at the State Fair of West Virginia
In taking assessment of the war situation, which has necessitated government restricting of the sale of auto tires, the rationing of gasoline, the regulation and the possible restrictions in the near future of all forms of travel and transportation except that which is absolutely necessary, we recognize an insurmountable obstacle in the way of conducting our fair and whereas, it is also our desire to conform to the cheerfully acquiesce in any action deemed necessary by the government in its war effort, now therefore, in it resolved that we abandon our efforts to operate this year and definitely call off our fair for 1942.
Early Fairs and State Fair History link in the history section on the State Fair of WV website
Events at the State Fair of West Virginia in the 1940s included events such as horse shows, draft horse shows, horse/harness racing, beef and dairy cattle shows, livestock judging, poultry and fowl exhibits, dog shows, agriculture shows, 4-H Club shows, and fireworks.
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