swine barn

 

Absent the crowds and without smell of livestock overlaying the aromas of corn dogs and candied apples, the South Plains Fairground is a desolate place.  The first fair in Lubbock was held in 1914 and consisted primarily of livestock and agricultural products.  The cattle and swine barns were built in the 1940s.  The addition of carnivals and music shows to the fair came later.  Going to the fair was a big deal.  Back in my day, schools let out on Monday for fair day.  That morning the bands marched down Broadway (which was a long way to strut in white majorette boots!).  In the afternoon and evening we "did" the fair -- the rides, the food, the sideshows.  Wonder how many romances the fair sparked?  Who came home with a stuffed toy from a new swain or sported half an engraved heart?  That fall fling sometimes lasted until Christmas.

 

Swine Barn at the South Plains Fairground

Lubbock, Texas

www.southplainsfair.com/pages/about/history.php