South Central Fair Chase City, VA

"Something for everyone..." That has been the motto of the South Central Fair here in Chase City since it's inception in 1911. County fairs began in the 19th Century, when neighboring farmers and their families gathered to determine who had 'bragging rights' to the largest livestock and homegrown vegetables. In later years emphasis on youth and agricultural industry was added, along with concessions, rides and various forms of entertainment.

The local exposition began as the 'Mecklenburg County Fair' before expanding to include the counties of Charlotte and Lunenburg at which point and time it became the 'Tri-County Fair' in 1927. In 1959 it gained the name 'South Central Fair' reflecting its widespread participation. The first fair was held on the lawn of the Mecklenburg Hotel, with tents set up for exhibits. In 1912 the present-day site was secured and construction of the buildings began.

During the earlier years the Mecklenburg County Fair was kicked off on Tuesday with a large parade down Main Street. Area schools closed for the day so students could participate in the fair. The South Central Fair has enjoyed a relatively routine existence with only a couple of incidences. The event has only been rained out twice, in 1954 and 1964 due to hurricanes. In 1943 and 1944 the fair was cancelled due to World War II. In 1929 an outbreak of Polio lowered attendance. In 1965 a restriction on gambling put a damper on the year's events.

When horse racing was legal, it was the fairs main event with a firework display at the closure every night. The horse racing became so popular that the fair secured a private 40 stall stable that remained full around the clock. Other forms of entertainment through the years have included mule racing, animal performances, stunt shows, football and baseball games, beauty pageants, rodeos, motorcycle performances acrobatic shows and of course the demolition derby. While we are thankful that the past has been successful we look forward to the future and many more years of fantastic family fun!