Susanville resident, Med Arnold (1885-1967) recalled the fairs of past, which we explore today. Med wrote: “Every fall we had  two-week fair consisting of races, a livestock show and exhibits of all kinds. Many of our local people owned race horses, both runners and harness horses. Other horses were brought in from all parts of the country. There was usually six running races and a couple of harness races each day.

”The mile-track was situated just east of our ranch, and not far from our orchards. The large grandstand, betting ring, restaurant, paddock and stables were on the south side of the track, and the judges stand was on the north side. All of these buildings were situated somewhere in the neighborhood of what is now North Street, but some distance below Memorial Park. I have seen hundreds of dollars in the betting ring, all in gold coins. The present day  crop of gamblers are pikers compared to the old-time bettors.”

Support