collection - Wentworth County Agricultural Society fonds

The Wentworth County Agricultural Society was established in the mid-1800s to promote good agricultural practices and support rural communities in the region. Agriculture was essential to the success of the region and to the survival of the residents, so ensuring farmers were educated in the scientific principal of good agriculture, soil improvement, and the modernization of farm equipment, was of great concern and importance. The Society represented the smaller agricultural societies in the townships of Ancaster, Barton, Beverly, Binbrook, Dundas, East and West Flamborough, Glanford and Saltfleet, as well as the city of Hamilton, which paid membership fees to the larger organization. The Society elected officers and judges to organize and preside over fairs and exhibitions that showcased the livestock and yields of farmers, and awarded prizes for various categories including, but not limited to, best horse, cattle, sheep, poultry, fine wool, wheat and produce. The exhibitions were often held on the grounds of the Crystal Palace. The Society obtained revenue from grants from Hamilton City Council, membership subscription fees, booth, stand and stall rentals, participant entrance fees, and unclaimed prize money. The Wentworth County Agricultural Society is no longer in existence however, the Ancaster Agricultural Society still exists as of 2025, as do many fairs and exhibitions, which have endured and continue to be a mainstay of rural community life in the region of Hamilton-Wentworth, as well as Ontario.