Serving O'Brien & Clay Counties
1946: Thousands visit Hartley for big celebration
• Aug. 29, 1946
The 1946 4-H fair and Iowa centennial celebration which was held in Hartley was a huge success in every way. Crowds numbering between 10,000 and 12,000 for the final two days were above expectations. The Hartley Chamber of Commerce and the American Legion, who were the sponsors, reported the celebration was a financial success in addition to being enjoyable for all.
The Hartley Public School was preparing for the first day of classes on Sept. 3. With a large freshman class anticipated, it was expected that the high school enrollment would be nearly 200.
A destructive fire destr...