To the editor:
The grandstand at the Northern Maine Fair being condemned as unsafe and requiring replacement has been in the community discussions recently. However, most people don’t realize that the current grandstand is actually the third to exist. The new bleachers will actually return it to its original form.
(Courtesy of Dena Winslow)
Back in the earliest days of the fair, people would take tends and camp out on the fairgrounds. These days, that tradition continues for some involved in the Fair; however, most bring modern campers and not tents. When I was a teenager and exhibiting cows, baby beef and horses at the fair each year, we usually stayed in tents for the week like the other 4-H’ers and exhibitors because of the need to take care of our animals.
The second grandstand, built in 1895 by Thomas Phair to commemorate the victory of his race horse “Bloodmont,” was a “double-decker.” Phair also built a new judging stand. This famous horse race between Fort Fairfield’s “Fearless” and Presque Isle’s “Bloodmont” in 1893 drew record-breaking crowds and was talked about for years to come. G.M. Park, an early Presque Isle historian, said, “it was by far the most exciting race ever witnessed upon the Fairgrounds.”
To commemorate his important victory, Phair offered to build a new grandstand and judges’ stand, which cost him $1,600 at that time. This grandstand was used for 17 years until 1912, when the one standing now was built to replace it.
The current grandstand now requiring replacement has seen good service and been well used for 111 years. It has stood with more than capacity crowds jumping and cheering for many and various events over the years and its bones are no longer strong enough to safely withstand what is being asked of it. Let’s let it retire with dignity, and look forward to the brand new, much safer bleachers that funds are being raised to purchase. Those wishing to contribute to this important and worthy cause can do so by contacting any member of the fair board.
Dena Winslow
Aroostook County Historian
Presque Isle
