(Chelsea Update would like to thank David Knisely for this story from The Chelsea Herald dated 10-16-1890, which was researched online through historical newspapers at the Chelsea District Library.)
A large number of farmers and village people at the Chelsea Fair were heard complaining that there was not much to see. When asked if they had anything on exhibition, they answered No as if they had no duty in the matter of making the fair a success. All should have an interest, then success is assured.
A few things necessary to make a good fair at Chelsea are: For all inside the limits to be exhibitors. Securing competent judges, who do not know the names of exhibitors. Attractions for both old and young. More room for horses and secure stalls for leaving them over night with safety. The stalls moved up from the south end of grounds near the entrance gate.
As few special police as possible to ? (… this word blurred in the source) and drive the people from place to place. I had rather be run over by anything than a pompus policeman with a bottle in each pocket hunting up bummers. A solid combine of villages and country in making the fair what it should be, the best in the state.
Full payment of premiums, even if the money has to be borrowed to do it. Let any animal or article compete for prizes until it is excelled. For everyone to bring all the good nature they can. Establish a place and day for selling horses and cattle, and a good auctioneer. Furnish a better water supply or means of drawing it. Build a feeding barn on the grounds, and then more teams will be brought in, and the gate money will be larger.
These are only a few suggestions, which with good weather, will make the fair at Chelsea a big success.
Timeless advice in this article:
1. “All should have an interest, then success is assured.”
2. “For everyone to bring all the good nature they can.”
We love the Chelsea Fair.