The Puyallup Fair Draws 20,000 School Children
A record-breaking year sees the fairgrounds overflowing with agricultural exhibits and local livestock.
The story, cleaned up
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The Western Washington Fair in Puyallup, which concluded on October 7, 1923, was a massive success, drawing record crowds. Opening day was dedicated to school children, with an estimated 20,000 youngsters from Pierce, King, and Thurston counties attending as guests of President Paulhamus. The agricultural hall was packed with displays of regional crops, and the poultry show was declared the largest and best ever held in the state. While livestock entries for some breeds were lower than in previous years, the exhibition remained a major regional event, featuring everything from dairy cattle to Shetland ponies from Wisconsin.
“Home of the fair that comes up to expectations, we thank you for your co-operation.”
The Western Washington Fair—now known as the Washington State Fair—remains a foundational event for the region. While it has grown significantly, the tradition of student field trips and agricultural celebration remains an essential part of Puyallup's civic identity.
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