The motto “The Biggest Little Fair in Wisconsin” got its start
back in 1856 with the first steps in the formation of an
Agricultural Society, with the first fair being held in
Stockbridge, then moving to other cities and villages over the
next several years, including Stockbridge, Brothertown, New
Holstein and Lodi (now named Gravesville). In 1888 Harrison
Hobart deeded the land known as Hobart Park to the City of
Chilton with the stipulation that the property was to be used
for a city park, public pleasure grounds, public fairgrounds and
public race course. It was not until after 1888 that the fair
had a permanent location. In 1891 the association purchased 8.5
acres from General Hobart adjacent to Hobart Park, in 1898
another parcel of 4.5 acres was purchased from Theador Kersten;
in 1926 land was purchased from a German shooting club; this
gave the fair all the land from the Manitowoc River to Frances
Street; in 1955 another 100 feet was added on the south end
which was purchased from Joseph Sell. In 1993