I have so many wonderful collectibles acquired over the last 80+ years. Some were gifts, some were part of my life growing up, some were inherited, some were purchased at antique malls, gift shops or thrift stores – all are precious to me. Some items are kept up year-around while others are brought out seasonally and on holidays. Unfortunately, many priceless-to-me objects go undisplayed and unseen for years, so each week, I’m going to pull out an item and post a COLLECTIBLE OF THE WEEK.
The first county fair of the year in our area is happening this week (Warren County – Lebanon, Ohio) and it’s time to bring out my fair collectibles. I have quite a few since I’ve been a fair enthusiast all my life. The top two vintage banners are for our local Cincinnati (Hamilton County) fair and the Ohio State fair, hanging on an old cane won many years ago.
Since my father trained and drove harness horses, fair time is synonymous with trotters and pacers in our family. I have a nice assortment of commemorative glasses and mugs on my kitchen shelf (along with a doll that won a prize for her pretty dress about 30 years ago and some small spoons).
Although they are not fair activities, I display my items from the Little Brown Jug (the World Series of pacers) ….
…and the Hambletonian (the World Series of trotters) along with a 1976 commemorative bottle from the Fairfield County (Lancaster, Ohio) fair.
I’ve exhibited many times at fairs in the past but this year have left it to my older daughter who took a few of her antiques to Lebanon. Can’t wait until tomorrow night to see how she did – and to watch a couple of harness races.
LILLIAN'S CUPBOARD 
Love the collectibles and all the memories associated with them. I love fairs. Hope to go to the one this year…
That’s wonderful, Lillian!
What wonderful keepsakes. I didn’t know your dad was a trainer. I either missed it or forgot it. I love to watch the trotters. I’ve had friends who raced them, and it’s so much fun to watch. Good luck to your daughter. Enjoy the races!
P. S. When I was a little girl, that song about the little brown jug was one of my favorites. I had no idea what it was about. LOL
You have such wonderful collections, full of memories. I enjoy seeing them every week.
I’m dying to hear how your daughter did in Lebanon! Did she place? I love learning a bit about harness racing from you – we had horses but I never knew anything about this sort of racing until I met you.