[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 95 (Tuesday, June 25, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Pages S6817-S6818]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            IOWA STATE FAIR

  Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, one of the best ways to tell the Iowa 
story already unfolds each year in Iowa's capital city, Des Moines. The 
Iowa State Fair has become an icon of life in Iowa--it is a reflection 
of what is best about Iowa and its people. Sparking the interest of 
hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the State fair offers a 
diverse range of exhibits and performances. And it is among the largest 
agricultural expositions in the Nation.
  In 1854, 8 years after Iowa joined the Union, the first State fair 
was held in Fairfield, IA, on a 6-acre field. Even in those early 
years, Iowans came from miles around. Although the fair was only a 3-
day event, an amazing crowd of 7,000 to 10,000 arrived 3 days before 
and camped in covered wagons along the road. In 1878, the fair grounds 
were permanently moved to Des Moines. Today, the fairgrounds span 400 
acres, including 160 acres of campgrounds.
  During the early years, a sampling of popular entertainment features 
included female equestrians and a contest among seven men to plow one-
quarter or an acre the fastest. In 1911, the Wright brother's biplanes 
demonstrated each day of the fair.
  The State fair began a unique tradition in 1916 that holds true today 
and continues to unite all ages of fair goers. That year, young 4-H 
club members started a livestock and beef judging show. The following 
year boasted the largest sheep exposition of its time. To this day, 
young Iowa 4-H and FFA exhibitors continue to impress visitors and 
judges with their livestock and homemaking projects. By the way, I am 
proud to say that 4-H was started in Iowa.
  For over 141 years the essence of the Iowa State Fair has not 
changed. Its main focus continues to revolve around agriculture and its 
vast opportunities. The tradition of excellence in Iowa agriculture 
products has stood the test of time. Take a quote from a fair judge in 
1854: ``as to corn, it is useless to talk of finding any better.''
  Many Americans may have read a novel called, ``State Fair,'' or 
perhaps watched a version of it on the big screen. Yes, it was written 
by an Iowa newspaperman and was based on the Iowa State Fair. The 
famous Rodgers and Hammerstein musical also was inspired by the Iowa 
State Fair. Last year, ``State Fair'' debuted at the Civic Center in 
Des Moines and opened on Broadway in March of this year.
  Folks from all walks of life come each and every year to enjoy the 
sights, tastes, and sounds of the State fair. Iowans hold a very 
special place in their hearts and take pride in our annual celebration 
of Iowa's culture, history, agricultural products, and commerce. 
Without a doubt, individual and community efforts have made the Iowa 
State Fair a major event in the Midwest. The bounty and achievements 
from across our great Nation and from overseas is honored each summer 
at the Iowa State Fair.
  So put on some comfortable clothes and shoes. Remember that the 
temperature will be hot and the air humid. And let us go help judge the 
jelly and jam, look at the livestock, take a ride on the midway, eat a 
corn dog, and marvel at how realistic the cow sculpted from pure butter 
looks. Let us all go to the Iowa State Fair.
  Ms. MOSELEY-BRAUN addressed the Chair.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Illinois.

[[Page S6818]]

  Ms. MOSELEY-BRAUN. Thank you.

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