The initiative for the Anne Arundel County Fair began in the winter of 1952 by Mrs. Lee of Annapolis. Mrs. Lee grew up in the farm country of Frederick County where a great fair had been held for many years. Approval for the Fair was granted by the Maryland State Fair Board in the spring of 1952 and plans were made for a fair that fall.
 
Although it was very late to think of a fair that first fall it was held and was a great success.  All those people familiar with fairs came forward to help.
 
The Duncans - Mr. Duncan took the Beef Cattle and Hog departments, while his wife chaired the 4-H and FFA Junior departments. Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong - both chaired the Farm and Garden department. Mr. Wayson, Mr. Taylor and Mrs. Solomon were some of the many others who helped.
The first Fair was held at the old Labrot Race Track near Sandy Point through the courtesy of Mrs. Spence. There were beef and dairy cattle, chickens and pigeons of all sorts, farm produce, home goods food and clothes, pigs, sheep, a horse pulling contest, rides, games, food, a queen contest and educational exhibits.