History

Did you know the first Cass County Fair used to be held in the Plattsmouth area? The Cass County Agricultural Association was organized August 30th in 1856. The officers at the time were H.C. Wolph, William H. Davis and Timothy Gaskill. 57 other members formed the first Ag Society in Cass County.

Interesting fairs were held in Rock Bluff in 1856 and 1857. Although, the Civil War caused a lapse in fair activities, it was reorganized in 1896. Various grounds were used for fair activities as the Association did not own any ground at the time. The fair grounds were held at the Plattsmouth Driving Park Association grounds located just south and east of Lincoln Avenue.

The 15th Exhibition of the Agricultural Society in 1881 offered and paid premiums on cattle and other livestock along with horticultural products, strutting peacocks, horse and bicycle racing and a ½ mile race track completed with a grandstand. Horses were in great demand at that time.

Once again, interest decreased but in 1921, another reorganization was attempted. A group bought the buildings formerly occupied by Jameson Lumberyard in Weeping Water. The existing buildings were in poor repair but the cooperative spirit of Cass County came to life! Men from country-wide came to lend a hand. Fred Carstens from Avoca arrived with several men, Oscar Domingo, John Rauth and Henry Ragoos came from each of their communities and the Pollards from Nehawka joined in. The fairgrounds at Weeping Water were established and used for the first time in 1930. A new building, meant to house swine and sheep entries was completed in 1933.

A $52,000 WPA grant was received in 1938 to build a new concrete auditorium on the main street of Weeping Water. That building became the centerpiece for the Cass County fair for many years.

Extension Clubs and 4-H Clubs continued to grow and a grand County Fair once more showcased the finest exhibits presented by 4-H members and proud farmers.

For many, many years, the main street of Weeping Water became a temporary fantasy place where Ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds and games of chance transformed the normally slow-paced blocks into a bustling, crowd filled area of fun for a few days. For children, it was a time of wonder.

The fair was a tradition, a part of Weeping Water history.