a Enjoy Labor Day at the
Old Russell County Courthouse Fair Barbecue and funnel cake vendors, authentic locally-made
craſts, jewelry and jars filled with homemade jams are just a few things you will find at the Old Russell County Courthouse this Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2. First held in 1975, the Old Russell County Courthouse Labor
Day Fair was discontinued in 1999 and then came back in 2010. Helping draw attention to Alabama’s third oldest courthouse, the
S e
by Jill Tigner
fair attracts people from all over the county. “Tere’s just a con- stant flow of people all day,” says Gary Head, president of the Old Russell County Courthouse Association board. “Te first year we had it back, it was bigger than anyone had
expected and the barbecue man ran out of barbecue early,” Head says with a smile. Past fair attractions have included an antique car show, pony
rides for children, craſt sales and an array of food vendors. “French fries, hamburgers, barbecue, low country boil, Sno Cones—you name it and we’ll have it food-wise,” Head says. Many local artists, including Seale native Butch Anthony who has made a name for himself by turning salvaged trash into trea- sures, like to sell their craſts at the fair as well. Since the courthouse is frequently used for weddings, family
reunions, dances and other functions, it is important that it is well maintained, Head says. Teir ultimate goal is to install an elevator to make the second floor handicap accessible. Funds raised by the fair, dances and rentals have put the association close to achieving that goal. Built in 1868, the antebellum-style courthouse is centrally
located in the county in Seale. With a brick exterior and large white columns, the courthouse is the picture of old southern tra- dition. “It’s a great building,” Head says. “It’s well built, pretty and just has a gorgeous landscape.” Serving as the county seat for Russell County until 1935, the
courthouse was abandoned for a number of years until the a group of local citizens decided to save it from further deteriora- tion. Te serious renovations started in the ‘80s. Since its resto- ration, it has become a prime spot for family and community functions. “It’s just a fun day,” Head says. “Te fair helps preserve the
building, and it gives the community the opportunity to rent the facility for different events.” Te fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT. Admission and
parking is free. For more information or to rent a booth, contact Susan Head at 706.326.5619. C
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