It’s that time of the year again, and everyone should be excited to go to the Baldwin County Fair.

I’m really a city girl from birth, but there is something about a county fair that is so attractive. It’s not just the rides. It’s not just the carnival atmosphere. It’s the animals that are brought for competition. It’s the rodeo events we can watch. It’s the booths and exhibits set up for the public to see. I have always learned something new when I have attended.

Agriculture has always been a big part of Baldwin County, and this gives the younger generation a chance to see the fruits of those who labor in that endeavor. Our new county fair grounds with the 38,000-square-foot Coliseum and the largest open-air arena in the Southeast make it possible for many more to see all the exhibits and animals. 

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the fair is the judging of canned fruit, jams and jellies, garden produce and farm animals. Those who still garden reap the benefits of canning their own food for the next year.

Baldwin County has been a safe environment for me to raise my children, and I believe it has a lot to do with the agriculture lifestyle. The building of big cities brings in crime and more social issues that are difficult to deal with in a community. To live in the farming atmosphere keeps us moving at a slower pace. Some might not like that idea but for safety reasons and for the families who live here, it is good. A slower pace is always better than life passing us by so quickly. We need to be reminded of our heritage every year and be grateful to our forefathers for what they have done for us.

The history of Baldwin County goes back way before Alabama became a state. Baldwin County was established on Dec. 21, 1809 and had been a part of the Mississippi Territory up until 1817 when the area was included in the Alabama Territory and was given statehood in 1819. Long ago, there were farms all over the county, and we were able to contribute food for our area and beyond. There aren’t as many farms left but our lifestyle hasn’t changed much except for the drive down to the beach.

The future is always uncertain but to know our past and how those who settled this area were persistent in moving forward, we can have that same feeling of safety and purpose to move forward in our lives in Baldwin County. So make a visit to the Baldwin County Fair in Robertsdale this year. It opens Sept. 27 and runs through Oct. 1.

Valerie  is the author of four books. Contact her at valeriesteimle@yahoo.com, visit her website at www.stregthenyourhome.com or check out her blog at www.valeriesteimle.blogspot.com.