Ayer’s Cliff Fair 174 years strong
Anyone who was around the Ayers Cliff Fairgrounds 30or more years ago wouldn't have had much hope for this county fair. Finances were down to the bottom of the barrel and future fairs in this pictoresque valley near Lake Massawippi seemed almost an impossible dream.
But, there were some folks who wouldn't give up hope. Little by little, funds were found, sponsors and generous donations along with directors and volunteers ready and willing to begin rebuilding were found and ever so gradually buildings were replaced, new ones built and the old fairgrounds began to have an inviting, positive look presenting a modern facility fair visitors flock to on 'fair' weekend.
Lyle Roarke remembers those difficult years when he was president 21 years ago, and once again as this year's president, he speaks proudly of the difference dedicated teams of directors and volunteers have made.
"We have a modern venue with good facilities," he began, commenting on the younger directors who are bringing new ideas and projects to the planning table. "It's very encouraging to see around 25 per cent of the board probably under 35 years old. That brings new life and ideas to this event and we've already started planning our 175th anniversary next year.
Roarke talked of the years he encouraged his family, Melanie, Daniel and Timothy, to join the local 4-H club and the former dairy farm soon had Shorthorn cattle carefully nurtured and
brought to the 4-H club competitions at the fair. "It was always the high point of the summer but with the participation of us all, preparations began before school ended," he remembered.
Providing events that are informative is another priority. This year, a farrier, (a blacksmith heating and shaping horse shoes, trimming and preparing the horse's hoof for a new shoe and nailing it in place properly) will be demonstrating his expertise all weekend.
The Roarkes live on the original family farm just a few minutes away from the fairgrounds as well as the president's workplace, Everest Equipment, where he is also president.
"I'm looking forward to another great fair" he added, "we have 20 directors and they make a great team."
Fair visitors on the weekend will find themselves mingling with thousands of people. Attendance in recent years has been on the rise attracting city and townsfolk as well as country folk. "We try to keep the admission as low as possible. Our aim is creating an event for the entire family and charging a reasonable price at the gate. Everything else is free - midway rides, events, evening shows, etc."
"Today, we put the finishing touches on the paddock. We'll be the only Eastern Townships fair with a 'Race Day" during the fair this year and according to Peter Mcharg, chairperson of that committee, "it's shaping up to the usual tencard racing program and we're hoping for six or seven horses in each race," Mcharg commented on Tuesday. The program usually comes out on Thursday, betting booths are set up Saturday morning and races get underway at 1 p.m.
"We're looking forward to a great fair and making plans for an even greater event next year," the president emphasized. "And great weather of course."