Collection Guide
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Table of contents
Description
The Fairplex Records document the history and development of the Los Angeles County Fair from its founding in 1922 to the
present day. Along with documenting the fair's rich history the records also document the development and expansion of the
fairgrounds itself, which was renamed Fairplex in 1984. Fairplex hosts other major entities and events throughout the year
including the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel and Conference Center, the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum, RailGiants Railroad
Museum, and the Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. The collection includes administrative records, photographs, negatives and slides,
audio and video recordings, newspaper clippings, fair realia, and other material pertaining to the Los Angeles County Fair
and Fairplex attractions.
Background
In September 1921, Pomona City Councilman Clinton Bertram "Jack" Afflerbaugh and railroad carnival promoter Harry LeBreque
organized a merchant's exposition along the Southern Pacific Railway in downtown Pomona. The event's success motivated Afflerbaugh
and other Pomona businessmen to pursue the development and hosting of the Los Angeles County Fair in Pomona. To achieve this,
the Los Angeles County Fair Association was incorporated in April 1922 with the aim of raising support for the construction
and organization of the first Los Angeles County Fair. L.E. Sheets was appointed as the fair's first president, with Afflerbaugh
serving as vice president, Fred Reynolds as treasurer, and Fred E. Whyte and W.A. Kennedy as directors. Afflerbaugh played
a key role in persuading the City of Pomona to acquire a 43-acre beet and barley field from the Ricardo Vejar estate to serve
as the fairground.
Extent
275.64 Linear Feet
(444 boxes, 2 flat file drawers)
Restrictions
Unpublished manuscripts are protected by copyright. Permission to publish, quote, or reproduce must be secured from the repository
and the copyright holder.
Availability
Advance notice required for access.