Photo Courtesy of The Chronicle
By Cynthia Mudge
For the C-C Chamber of Commerce
Agriculture has always been at the heart of Lewis County, and the Southwest Washington Fair stands as a proud celebration of that heritage. From its humble beginnings to its status today as a regional staple, the fair has played a key role in promoting farming, showcasing community talent, and uniting generations around shared traditions.
The story began in 1877, when a group of local residents formed an agricultural association with a vision to advance and support farming in the region. That vision took physical form on October 6, 1891, when the first fair opened near the current site of Ace Hardware in Chehalis.
As interest grew, so did the need for a more permanent and expansive venue. Persistent lobbying efforts by supporters led to the Washington State Legislature allocating funds for a new fairgrounds. There was one condition: the fair must be located between Centralia and Chehalis and serve six counties—Lewis, Thurston, Mason, Grays Harbor, Cowlitz, and Pacific.
Construction began soon after, with major features including a racetrack, floral halls, four stables, a cattle barn, and a grandstand. In September 1909, the first fair at its new site opened—despite rainy, soggy weather.
Unique among Washington fairs, the Southwest Washington Fair is governed by legislation. As local historian and community advocate Edna Fund explains, the fair was established under RCW 36.90.010, “So by law it will take place each year.” She adds that the original organizing committee selected the location of the current fairgrounds with intention and foresight. “During the early days, a special trolley ran between Chehalis and Centralia bringing people to the fair,” said Fund.
Fund has a long history with the fair. For the past four years, she has served on the advisory board and previously was a Lewis County Commissioner. Her most personal connection, however, comes through decades of participation—entering floral displays for over 30 years. Her mother, June Gorter, was also a dedicated flower gardener who submitted her prized hydrangeas until her passing. “She is distinguished as being the oldest flower vendor at 99,” Fund proudly noted.
Today, the Southwest Washington Fair attracts more than 70,000 visitors annually. The grounds span 78 acres and include more than 100,000 square feet of multi-use buildings. Highlights include the historic grandstands, two outdoor stages, numerous barns, and camping facilities.
While the fair remains the centerpiece, the grounds are used throughout the year for a variety of events and celebrations.
The 2025 Southwest Washington Fair—under the theme “Saddle Up”—runs from August 12 through 17. As it has for over a century, the fair continues to showcase the spirit, talent, and agricultural pride of Lewis County and beyond.
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Research courtesy of The Chronicle and Edna Fund.
