Small Town Stories Grady County Fair

It's Fair Time in Grady County! Grady County's first free fair started in September 1913. After searching for land accessible by the public, County Agent Cooper struck up a deal with Mr. WA Hopkins to use his private land on the southern edge of Chickasha. The first fair consisted of a tent filled with boards on sawhorses as make shift tables to display goods. Mr. Hopkins' land would later become what is now known as Shannon Springs Park.

The fair later moved north of Chickasha until 1938 when WPA constructed actual wooden structures on today's fairgrounds. These buildings changed the trajectory of the fair into what it is now.

The fair continues to be a staple annual event thousands enjoy every year. Over the years, the fair has grown from displays of goods to livestock events, tractor pulls, pageants, vendor booths, various contests, carnival rides and, of course, great fair foods! There is something fun for the entire family.

Grady County Free Fair continues to improve year after year. Don't miss 2023's Fair, August 24-26.

When looking back at your fondest memories of Chickasha it can send you down memory lane for days. Enjoy these sweet memories from Rick Johnston

"I have wonderful memories of downtown Chickasha. I remember our family eating at David’s Cafe in the 50’s then walking down Chickasha Avenue where, in the summer, the Dixie, Kresses, McClellans, and other stores had the front doors propped open so the refrigerated air rushing out would draw us in. Most people didn’t have that at home then.

Each store was a special place. The Kress store, McClellans, and Ben Franklin sold everything from dress patterns for the seamstress in the family to toys and pet turtles for the kids. Gilkey Hardware had the biggest cash register I’d ever seen, all chrome and brass with many drawers for the various clerks to make change. I was fascinated by that. I thought the Dixie must be the biggest fanciest store in the whole world. The children’s department on the second floor was where my mom would take us to get “Sunday” clothes. Each store was an experience all in itself. It’s hard to remember a favorite."

- Rick Johnston

Breed

Long haired

Color

Tabby

Lovable Quirk

Loves to go outside and watch the birds with dad

Owner

Craig and Jeanette Parham

If you'd like to submit your pet for pet of the month, send a photo and info to oh18.livelocal@gmail.com.