Essex County Fairgrounds, Historic fairgrounds in Westport, New York
Essex County Fairgrounds is a historic event venue in Westport spanning 30 acres with over 20 buildings and various structures. The grounds serve today as a location for agricultural fairs, craft festivals, horse shows, and musical performances.
The grounds were founded in 1881 as a venue for regional agricultural fairs and became a community hub. Its recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005 honored the preservation of original architectural elements from that era.
The main building displays Colonial Revival style with a distinctive octagonal cupola crowning its rectangular form. This architectural choice reflects the rural heritage and farming traditions that defined this place.
The grounds are located on Sisco Street and offer rental spaces for various types of events throughout the year. Visitors should expect an open outdoor venue with multiple buildings that can be explored on foot.
Four original buildings from 1885 remain active: the Grandstand, Judge's Stand, Floral Hall, and a circular racing track for horse events. These structures show how venues from that era functioned for communities.
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