DARLINGTON — The Lafayette County Historical and Genealogy Society had a busy time at the County Fair this year. The project to restore the Octagon Building began with removing stored items (Fair Staff), repair to light fixtures (Blaser Electric), a hose down (Darlington Fire Department), and thorough scrubbing by volunteers. The structure looks shabby on the outside, but it is solid and well built.

Pies (many from Lafayette County Homemakers), cookies, brownies, Kammerude art prints, and T-shirts were sold to raise funds for repairs and work will begin in earnest this fall. Fair-goers seemed to appreciate the opportunity to see the inside of the building that has been closed in recent years, they were surprised by how roomy, comfortable, and well-appointed it is inside. Many asked about the future of the structure.  

The Historical and Genealogy Society is going to replace rotted siding and trim pieces, give it a new coat of white paint, and seek grant funding to replace the cedar shake roof. They also hope to finish the work with a plaque providing the historical significance of the structure. The Society does not own the building. This work is their community service. It is hoped the building will stay with the fair and see more frequent use by organizations that make use of the fairgrounds. There are currently no plans to move it to a different location.

A highlight of the week was presenting Lindsay Reese of Darlington with prizes in recognition of her blue ribbon in the category of “Other Arts and Crafts — Class G, Local History and Heritage.” She created a beautiful family tree display. The Society appreciates the hard work of this young genealogist, and encourages everyone to participate in the fair by entering items in the categories of Local History and Genealogy. Lindsay was awarded a Certificate, a free one year membership in the Society (including quarterly newsletter), a Society T-Shirt, and a cash prize.