George and Phyllis Paul reflect on the impact of 4-H, FFA and family tradition
For George and Phyllis Paul, the county fair has never been just a week-long event — it has been a way of life, a family tradition and a place where lifelong lessons were learned and memories were made.
George became involved in 4-H as soon as he was old enough in 1953. Like many youth growing up in rural Iowa during that era, he dedicated countless hours to caring for livestock and preparing projects for the fair. He showed both hogs and cattle of his own and, in addition to his livestock projects, was required to enter at least one item in the static exhibits building each year.
George recalls that during the late 1960s, girls were required to belong to a girls’ club in order to participate in a boys’ 4-H club — a reminder of how much programs and opportunities have evolved over the years.
Despite the changes through time, one thing has always remained the same: the fair was a family event.
“Everyone went,” George shared. “The whole family was involved.”
Among his favorite memories as a 4-H member was his final year showing cattle, when he earned Champion Shorthorn Heifer — an accomplishment that still stands out decades later.
As meaningful as his own experiences were, some of George’s proudest moments came later as a parent. One memory in particular remains especially close to his heart: watching his daughter, Dory, win Champion Market Hog during her very first year showing pigs with a hog their family had raised themselves.
Having participated in both 4-H and National FFA Organization, George understood firsthand the value those programs bring to young people. That understanding inspired him to become a club leader, helping guide the next generation through the same experiences that had shaped his own life.
As a leader, George found tremendous joy in watching young exhibitors succeed.
“It was very rewarding seeing the pride in a kid’s face when they received their ribbon for their project,” he said.
Through both showing livestock and mentoring youth, George says he learned many important life lessons — including compassion, sportsmanship, resilience and how to “roll with the punches.” Those lessons, he believes, are among the greatest benefits the fair and youth organizations can offer.
Phyllis also shares a deep connection to the fair and the 4-H program. She was involved in 4-H for one year as a youth, but after marrying George, she became actively involved again as a club leader alongside him. Over the years, she developed a special appreciation for the creativity and dedication displayed by local youth.
“My favorite part of the fair is going to the exhibit building and seeing what the kids have created,” Phyllis shared.
In addition to serving as a leader, Phyllis dedicated many years to serving on the fair board, helping shape the fairgrounds into what visitors know today. Her contributions extended beyond the fair week itself, as she also helped create the annual soup supper fundraiser — an event that continues to serve as the only fundraiser directly supporting the fair.
Together, George and Phyllis have witnessed generations of families dedicate themselves to projects, livestock, exhibits and community involvement. While they are proud of how the fair continues to impact youth, they also acknowledge the challenges facing county fairs today, particularly the decline in community support.
“The fair is a family affair,” George explained. “The entire family works hard to support the projects.”
He also points out that the Clarke County Fair remains one of the few fairs that does not charge admission, ensuring that everyone in the community has the opportunity to attend and support local youth.
Today, both George and Phyllis remain incredibly proud of the fair, the fairgrounds and the opportunities the programs provide for young people.
“We still continue to support the fair an exhibitors through sponsoring awards and encourage everyone to attend the fair,” they said.
“The fair has helped shape who I am,” George reflected.
When asked what advice they would offer today’s youth exhibitors, their message is simple and heartfelt: “Have fun and make memories.”
