Smith Centre Fair poster

While the traditional horse races were still selected as the major draw for the 1886 Smith Centre fair organizer also touted a newer attraction. Each day a “grand balloon ascension” could be seen.

Fairs have been a mainstay in Kansas since before it was a state. Counties sought to draw in visitors with fair posters advertising races, grand exhibits, and livestock. To learn more about fair posters please visit: https://www.kshs.org/kansapedia/fair-posters/10124