Fun at the first Ionia Free Fair

During the opening day of the first Ionia Free Fair on Wednesday, August 18, 1915 Professor ER Hutchinson launched a brand new hot air balloon, it was christened "Ionia".

Exhibits were judged and awards were given, first place in the poultry department went to Dennis Holtenbeck of Belding, he received $10 for the best pen.  

During the first horse race held at the Ionia Free Fair a horse named Echo, owned by JB Welch, got away from its driver and went into the crowd.  No one was seriously injured, but it added to the excitement.  

On the final day of the 1915 Ionia Free Fair a 1916 Ford was awarded to Emma Hodgkins.  

This picture comes from a much later fair, after the Automobile building was built.