The Great Roanoke Fair & Mountain Park

The Great Roanoke Fair and Mountain Park. . , The River's Edge area boasts a vibrant history. Beginning in 1902, the city took pride in The Great Roanoke Fair, which took place every September and was promoted as the best of its kind. All neighboring states were represented. Sheep, swine, poultry, pets, agriculture, horticulture, needlework, embroidery, and "household science" were among the many exhibits at the fair. , Inside the fair pamphlet, many local businesses and attractions were advertised. The 40-acre Mountain Park, adjacent to the fairgrounds, was among them. A trolley station at the park brought residents in from the city to enjoy the festivities. The park was full of attractions including the Mill Mountain Incline, dancing pavilion, rollercoaster, casino, arcade, bowling alley, and zoo. The Mill Mountain Incline alone brought 1,500 people its opening day in 1910, each paying only a quarter for the four-minute ride. , The 9,000-square-foot dancing pavilion was another popular attraction. Lit by night, people filled the bleachers and wide, open dance floor surrounding a bandstand. Frequently, fireworks were set off in the background for visitors' pleasure. , Finally, in 1922, the park saw its last day. Attendance dwindled and the land was purchased for $80,000 , 13 times the original purchase price. Some of the structures were moved to what would be known as Lake Spring Park in Salem; the land itself would be developed into residential areas known as Clermont Heights and Mountain Park. Plans also included a toll road to the top of Mill Mountain to Rockledge Inn, which opened in 1924. , [photo captions] , . An aerial view of the fairgrounds. , . Summer fireworks display, 1912. , . Crowds gather for a parade to the fair. , . The dance pavilion and “Thriller” rollercoaster.