Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then & Now Collection."
STEVE HARMON
Hutch Post Contributor
Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the Kansas State Fair Grandstand.
Today's article strays from the usual format. I would like to highlight some of the early, early state fair grandstand entertainment events. The first photo, caught by Sam Hirst in 1908, shows "Airship" blimp rides in the grandstand infield.
The second photo shows the very first motorcycle races held in the state in 1910. The picture shows each of the four class winners from around the state on their collectible rides.
The third photo shows the same 1910 races with the automobile class winner in the No. 5 Buick — hardly a safe ride.
The fourth photo shows the 1920 fair holding Thoroughbred horse racing, with the fifth photo showing silky horse racing in 1920 also.
On-track betting was not legally allowed by the Kansas legislature at that time, but, it probably happened anyway.
The sixth photo shows a rodeo being held on the race track in 1947.
The seventh photo shows a daredevil auto show being held on the track and infield in 1952.
To purchase a photo print, contact: sharmon5@cox.net.
Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum
Anchor Inn and Anchor Away