DAYTON – The first Columbia County Fair was held in Dayton by the Columbia County Agricultural Association in 1888. With the exception of three war years, it has been held every year since.

That first fair featured horse racing, trotting and harness races. Pavilion displays (before the current Pavilion) featured the skills of homemakers and farmers' crops, much as they do today. Games were put on for kids, and pie and watermelon eating contests were enjoyed by everyone.

This year's 125th Columbia County Fair includes no horse racing, but pavilion displays and many fun activities for kids and a...