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Our History

The Burford Agricultural Society, founded in 1858, has a rich and storied history that reflects our deep roots in agriculture and community. Over the years, we have grown and evolved, always staying true to our mission of promoting agricultural education and community involvement.

A Journey Through Time:
The Rich History of the Burford Agricultural Society

1858

The “South Brant Agricultural Society” formed.

1860

First Fair held in Cathcart known as the “Cathcart Exhibition”

1863

Fair relocated to Harley known as the “World’s Fair”

1893

22 acres purchased in Burford. First year Fair held at present site, 1 day event.

1920

Race track constructed

1924

Original grandstand built

1931

Cattle barn built, now known as “old horse barn”

1950

Agricultural Pavilion (hall) built

1951

Two cattle sheds constructed

1953

Legion building constructed, Lions Ball Park completed

1957

Hog Producers Building constructed

1960

First year for Fair “Queen” pageant, Lions Pavilion constructed

1960

First year for Fair ÒQueenÓ pageant, Lions Pavilion constructed

1966

Cenotaph moved and established at the Fairgrounds

1970

Poultry building built, now known as the workshop

1971

Original Horse Barn destroyed by fire

1982

Burford Fair expands from one day to 1 _ days

1985

Betting Booth built, Fair expands to 2 full days

1990

Chain link fences replace wooden fence along Park Ave

1992

New sand horse ring

1993

Bicentennial Building constructed

1998

Fire destroys grandstand on April 3rd, new grandstand built in time for 1998 Fair

2003

Burford Fair expands to 4 day event

2012

Cattle barn dismantled

2013

Agricultural Pavilion replaced by new Ag Hall thanks to entire community

2014

Optimist Playground installed, thanks to the Burford Optimist Club

2014

“Hog Barn” renovated into storage barn, thanks to the Pepper & Phillipo Families

2014

Horse Show Ring & new practice ring installed thanks to Clare Family