The World War I Memorial Entrance to the Fillmore County Fair Grounds in Preston is in great need of repair and restoration to properly honor World War I Veterans in Fillmore County. For many years it was the stately entrance on the west side of the Fairgrounds complete with a turn-style entryway.
The only early picture of the building shows cement blocks forming two small buildings, one on each side of entry way, and “wings” also of cement blocks to channel fairgoers to the gate. Those remain but are in dis-repair. Also significant on the historical structure are the two cupolas with a flag pole atop each.
The Fillmore County Ag Society (the Fair Board) is launching an effort to acquire funds for the painting of the building after repairs are done to the blocks. Also, the roof is sagging and will be shingled after structural repairs are made. And finally, the cupolas need to have new molds made to replicate the detail of the original structures and the flag poles replaced.
The Fair Board has acquired small grants from the Clean Water Legacy Heritage Fund and from the Preston and Lanesboro Area Community Foundations. However, approximately $3,000 of additional funds are needed to complete the project.
Anyone wishing to contribute to this project which honors our Fillmore County World War I Veterans, can make their contribution to the Fillmore County Ag Society, Doug Lind, Treasurer, P.O. Box 364, Preston, Minn. 55965.