The West Oxford Agricultural Society (present- ers of the Fryeburg Fair) was incorporated on June 3, 1851. Originally nine Maine towns were included, with six New Hampshire towns added in 1888. After moving from town to town for the first few years, a permanent fair site was purchased in Fryeburg. After nearly 30 years it moved to its present location, north of town, with the purchase of 26 acres for $133. The first fair was held there in October 1885. During the next 100 plus years it has expanded to 180 acres and includes 100 permanent buildings, with over 3,000 camping sites. Currently, about 300,000 attend the fair annually.
This photo is the ladies pairs sawing timed contest. When the whistle blows the clock starts and stops when the wood falls. The fastest time wins the event.