This year's Meriden Grange Fair is now a part of history, and the 2010 event was a positive one.  A nice crowd and good weather contributed to the success of the Fair, those in attendance say.

That's also the indication from Meriden Grange Fair Co-Chairman Robert Charbonneau. "We had an increase in visitors along with our base of dedicated patrons, who annually enter our fair contests," Charbonneau said.  “In addition, we were pleased to have additional Community-based exhibits as part of our fair this year.”

Held this past Saturday, September 11th, the Fair also hosted a delicious Roast Pork Supper and the always popular vegetable and flower auction.

For 81 years, the Meriden Grange Fair has served its community celebrating agriculture and its rich traditions with fine exhibits and contest entries. Needlework, Flowers, Baking, Canning, Vegetables, Arts & Crafts, and Photography were some of the departments featured at the Fair, which had more than 100 items on display by over 40 local exhibitors.

The Fair was a great opportunity for visitors of all ages to experience a traditional country fair, celebrate Meriden's farming roots, and also see what the local community had to offer.

Fair attendees watched in amazement as award-winning local craftsman Murray Newton demonstrated his beautiful ornamental scroll work with composite materials such as wood, and showed his beautiful hand-crafted pewter figurines.  

The Meriden Humane Society had an informational exhibit at the Fair. Meriden Grange has been a long-time advocate of this organization, who is supported solely on public donations.

"We were pleased with learning the Humane Society raised just over $200 for the shelter," said Charbonneau. “One of the important projects the shelter performs is a service to fixed income elderly pet owners who have a hard time keeping their pets. The shelter helps them with the costs of feeding their pets so they can stay with their owner.”

Meriden Grange is celebrating its 125th Anniversary throughout 2010.  The organization was formed March 27, 1885, with 32 charter members.  Today, the Grange is active in its community, holding numerous programs and dinners throughout the year and raising money for local organizations like the Meriden Humane Society, as well as hosting their popular annual fair.