THE EAST CORINTH FAIRGROUNDS
The East Corinth Fairgrounds has been privately owned since the late 1700's.
About 1800 Willoughby Corliss, owner of the field and nearby tavern, permitted
the local militia to train and drill at the "Parade Grounds", sometimes called
the "Muster Grounds".
The militia trained here through the War of 1812 until 1847, when the militia
grew into disfavor and was repealed in 1847 due to intoxication and rowdiness.
In 1864, after the Civil War, the militia was revived on a voluntary basis
temporarily.
From 1890-1907 The Waits River Valley Fair Association held an annual 3 day fair
on the grounds, leased by the Association. There were exhibits, animal judging,
food booths, baby contests, etc., and horse racing on the race track. Town
bands, and balloon ascensions were extra attractions, and were largely attended.
In the 1930's Harry Hunter, Mary Holland's father, directed a 1 day fair on
Labor Day, including an extensive parade, along with games of chance,
refreshments and baseball at the East Corinth Fairgrounds. These annual
celebrations continued for several years.
Prior to the 1930's and until the present time, baseball continues to be a
popular and organized sport at the Fairgrounds.
Bert and Mary Holland have owned the East Corinth Fairgrounds since the early
1940's, and have generously allowed community groups, such as the annual Flea
Market run by the Valley Health Center Auxiliary; the annual 4th of July
barbecue put on by the East Corinth Cong. Church, and for many years in
conjunction with a popular auction. In 1976 several of the country's
bicentennial events were held there, also Vermont's bicentennial celebrations in
1991. The East Corinth Fire Dept. held fundraisers at the field, for example,
largely attended chicken shoots. For several years, Old Home Days were a popular
event for Corinthians, as well as for former residents.
Needless to say, baseball has been played there for over 75 years. First, town
teams were active, then Little League and the Babe Ruth League. As more children
showed interest, younger leagues were added and girls and women's softball teams
made this their home field. Cooperation between the volunteers and local school
officials enable scheduling of these sports. In the Fail the school soccer teams
practice and play scheduled games in the outfield.
(Research done by Peggy Pierson from primary sources and The Corinth History)