In the Beginning

The first known Fair was held in 1850, it was called the Shiawassee County Agricultural Society. It was held in Corunna, Michigan at the grounds on the South side of the Shiawassee River. By 1854 there were 322 entries and the profits made were $81.25. It was the first time “pure-bloods” stock was shown. In 1855 entries grew to 520 and profits were $146.27.

History of the Shiawassee County Fair. ​ In the Beginning ​​ There was no Fair for a time, until 1860 when a new Society was formed. At that time, it was decided to hold the Fair in Owosso, Michigan. It became known as the Shiawassee County Agricultural Association. There were three different sites. The first was on East of Hickory Street to Dewey, between Laverock Alley and Mason Street. It had a large display hall, a half mile racetrack, but no grandstand. ​​

When the fairgrounds were moved North of Jennett Street between Ball and Pine Street, William Sawers’ home stood just inside the grounds. There was a fine half mile racetrack and grandstand. It also had a floral hall, agricultural hall, stables for horses and stalls for all kinds of livestock and pets. The last of the four fairgrounds was held in Owosso, between Main and Oliver Street near the Gould farm. It was established as a matinee racecourse. 

​ In 1869 the 10th Fair was to be held in Owosso. It started September 29th and ran for three days. All exhibitors were required to become members at the cost of a dollar. Membership tickets were non-transferable, had admitted one family member, and were exclusive to males over 21 years of age, during Fair. All tickets were purchased at the fair office, adults at 25 cents, children 12 years & over were 10 cents, and kids under 5 years were free. There was a night watchman to protect the animals and property. ​​

In 1878 the 19th Fair started on Wednesday September 25th; it was to run for three days. But because of a heavy rainstorm Wednesday afternoon, the racetrack was in such bad condition, it was extended to include all day Saturday for the races, which were as follows:

Walking match for double teams-one mile; farmers double teams trotting match-two miles​​ Trotting match for horses 4 years old and over owned in Shiawassee County-half mile heats.
Best 3 of 5 three-year-olds-half mile heats
Best 2 of 3 two-year-olds-half mile heats
Best 3 of 5 free for all-half mile heat
Best 3 of 5 heavy weight race (1400 pounds and over)- mile heats
Best 3 of 5 heats

At the time races were done with horses not cars.

In 1878, there was the 2nd annual Fair of the Clinton and Shiawassee County Fair Association, held in Ovid, Michigan. It was held October 2nd - 4th. A statement was made that “The Ovid and Middlebury folks were making energetic efforts in preparatory arrangements for the approaching Agricultural Fair. The grounds were now enclosed by a new fence, lumber for a large floral hall, which will be enclosed and lighted by skylights on the grounds. Large additions to the sheds and pens were being done.” ​​