The 1957 Highland County Fair brought more than just sunshine and sawdust. With new exhibits, contests, and a flurry of behind-the-scenes upgrades, this year’s event raised the bar.
The festivities kicked off on Wednesday, August 28, with the beloved Fair Dance setting the stage for a weekend of fun and fellowship. The following day, the fairgrounds bustled with activity as judging of exhibits took place alongside the traditional midday parade. Floats, marching bands, and community groups lined the route, bringing Spruce Street and Main Street to vibrant life as crowds gathered to cheer.
Throughout the weekend, visitors enjoyed a lively mix of contests and entertainment — from the greased pig contest held by the FFA Chapter to the captivating jousting tournament and spirited dog show. Concession stands run by local organizations offered games like Huckle Buck, Ring the Duck, and basketball throw, providing fun for fairgoers of all ages.
The Debut of the Baby Show
One of the most heartwarming additions in 1957 was the first official Baby Show, a charming event that captured the hearts of the community. Hosted by the well-known Dr. W.P. Fletcher, the Baby Show featured playful and meaningful categories celebrating Highland’s youngest residents. The event offered playful awards in categories such as:
- Healthiest Baby (under 1 year old)
- Daintiest Girl (1–2 years)
- Most Robust Boy (1–2 years)
- Cutest Redhead (under 6 years)
- Little Miss Highland (2–5 years)
- Master Highland (2–5 years)
The titles of Little Miss Highland and Master Highland went to Terry Christine Colaw and Dale Hammer, respectively — two names beloved throughout the county. This special event not only celebrated the children but also symbolized the community’s care and pride in its future generations.
And in a true sign of the times, the fair reminded young participants: “You’re a winner, too, if you’re under twenty and accept your award: FREE POLIO VACCINE.”
New Exhibits on Display
This year welcomed several fresh exhibit categories, giving local youth a bigger stage to shine:
- Dairy heifers were added to 4-H, FFA, and FHA livestock classes
- New entries in woodworking and electrical projects encouraged practical skills
- More room for handicrafts, hobbies, and antiques showcased local creativity
Games & Concessions: Something for Everyone
From ball machines to cork guns, 1957’s concessions had more variety than ever. Local clubs were each allowed two booths, and the games were as charming as they were competitive:
- Stonewall Ruritan: Huckle Buck & Dart Game
- Blue Grass Ruritan: Ball Machine
- Bolar Ruritan: Ring the Duck
- Bullpasture Women’s Club: Ice Cream & Milk
- Garden Club: Homemade Candy (alongside the flower show)
- Firemen: Cork Guns
- VFW: Penny Pitch
- FFA: Rolling Pin Throw
- Lions Club: Milk Bottles & Cigarette Board
- Education Association: Basketball Toss
Pony rides also had a part thanks to Dareld Puffenbarger, who brought the ponies and covered the insurance in exchange for a 25% cut of the proceeds.
Tent Talk: A Big Top Deal
In an exciting upgrade, the fair teamed up with Bath County to purchase a massive tent from the churches of Mustoe. The deal included seat irons, and the groups negotiated separately for the seat lumber. Jacob Hevener and Jimmy Varner earned $10 hauling the setup — a fair price for fair magic.
Potatoes Get a Break
In a quiet but crowd-pleasing move, the fair reduced the number of potatoes required for exhibit plates from 14 to just 5. Gardeners across the county likely gave a collective cheer — and saved their backs!
A Feathered Feature
The Virginia Commission of Game and Inland Fisheries added a new twist this year by setting up a bird exhibit, offering a fun and educational look at native wildlife.
Whether you came for the jousting, the greased pig contest, or just to toss a rolling pin for glory, 1957’s fair proved that Highland County could blend tradition with innovation—and have a whole lot of fun doing it.