About the Fair

A Elgin County Tradition Celebrating Agriculture, Craftsmanship & Community Spirit

The Shedden Fair, proudly presented by the Shedden Agricultural Society, is one of Elgin County’s longest-running rural celebrations. With origins dating back to the 19th century, the fair continues to honour agricultural excellence, homecraft traditions, and the strong community bonds that define Shedden and the Township of Southwold.

A Fair with Deep Pioneer Roots

The Shedden Fair was established during Ontario’s era of agricultural society growth—an important time when rural communities relied on fairs to improve farming practices, compare livestock and produce, and strengthen community relationships.

Early fairs showcased livestock judging, grain displays, garden produce, homecrafts, and demonstrations of practical skills. These traditions reflected the resilience and ingenuity of Elgin County settlers who worked the region’s fertile fields and rolling countryside.

Agriculture at the Heart of the Fair

Agriculture remains the foundation of the Shedden Fair. Each year, the fair showcases:

• Dairy and beef cattle
• Sheep, goats, poultry, and small livestock
• Field crops, vegetables, and hay
• Woodworking, rural craftsmanship, and heritage skills

These exhibits celebrate the agricultural heritage of Southwold Township and highlight the hard work and expertise of local farm families.

The homecraft division, featuring quilting, knitting, sewing, preserves, baking, floriculture, photography, and junior categories, remains a cornerstone of the fair, reflecting the creativity and practical skills that enrich rural life.

Youth Involvement & Generational Engagement

The Shedden Fair places strong emphasis on youth. Through school exhibits, junior classes, 4-H clubs, and hands-on agricultural opportunities, young people develop:

• Leadership
• Practical learning skills
• Agricultural literacy
• Confidence and responsibility
• A sense of local heritage pride

Generational involvement, where parents, grandparents, and youth participate together, continues to be one of the fair’s defining features.

Sustained by Dedicated Volunteers

The Shedden Agricultural Society and its volunteers form the backbone of the fair. Their dedication, organizing exhibitions, preparing the fairgrounds, preserving traditions, and fostering community participation, ensures that the Shedden Fair remains vibrant and meaningful year after year.

Their work reflects the cooperative spirit and local pride deeply woven into the fabric of the community.

A Reflection of Shedden’s Rural Identity

The fair embodies the qualities that define the region:

• Agricultural excellence
• Creative craftsmanship
• Volunteer leadership
• Multigenerational involvement
• Rural resilience
• Community pride

These values help sustain the Shedden Fair as a beloved Elgin County tradition.

A Tradition That Endures

Through decades of growth and change, the Shedden Fair remains a cherished celebration of agricultural heritage, creativity, and community spirit, linking Shedden’s rich past with its ongoing story.

About the Community

Shedden, Ontario: A Rural Elgin County Community Rooted in Farmland, Heritage & Small-Town Warmth

Located in the Township of Southwold in Elgin County, Shedden, Ontario is a friendly rural village known for its agricultural heritage, close-knit spirit, and peaceful countryside landscape. Though small in size, Shedden holds a meaningful place in the region’s history and continues to embody the values of rural Southwestern Ontario.

A Village with Deep Agricultural Roots

Shedden began in the 1800s as a small settlement surrounded by rich farmland. Early residents built homesteads, mills, and local services to support the surrounding agricultural community. With fertile soil and a moderate climate, Southwold Township became known for strong crop and livestock production—traditions that still influence local culture today.

Many local families have lived and farmed in the area for generations, giving the village a feeling of continuity and shared heritage.

A Landscape of Rolling Fields & Country Roads

Shedden is surrounded by the scenic rural landscape characteristic of Elgin County:

• Productive farmland
• Gently rolling hills
• Woodlots and hedgerows
• Quiet concession roads
• Open skies and pastoral vistas

Season after season, this landscape shapes the rhythm of daily life and reflects the long-standing agricultural identity of the region.

A Community Where Neighbours Know One Another

Shedden is known for its strong sense of community. Residents support:

• Local service clubs
• Agricultural organizations
• Community halls and rural churches
• Youth programs and recreational initiatives
• Seasonal gatherings and community events

The village maintains a welcoming atmosphere where people look out for one another and traditions are passed from one generation to the next.

A Village with Heritage Character

Although small, Shedden retains a sense of historical identity through:

• Heritage farmsteads
• Long-established rural businesses
• Community buildings and gathering places
• Local stories and family histories tied to the land

These elements create a familiar and enduring village character.

Agriculture as a Continuing Way of Life

Agriculture continues to be a major part of Shedden’s identity. Local farms contribute to:

• Dairy and beef production
• Field crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat
• Mixed livestock operations
• Hay and forage production
• Rural craftsmanship and homesteading traditions

This agricultural strength is proudly celebrated each year at the Shedden Fair, one of the village’s most beloved traditions.

A Natural Companion to the Shedden Fair

The fair reflects Shedden’s most enduring qualities:

• Pride in rural roots
• Youth engagement
• Volunteer leadership
• Creative homecraft traditions
• Multigenerational participation
• Strong community bonds

Together, Shedden and its fair tell a rich and meaningful story of rural life in Elgin County.

A Community with Heart & Heritage

Whether travelling scenic backroads, connecting with friendly residents, or celebrating longstanding traditions like the Shedden Fair, Shedden offers a warm and memorable Ontario rural experience.

It is a community where heritage is honoured, where agriculture thrives, and where community spirit endures through every season.