Circleville in Pickaway County, Ohio — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
History of "The Greatest Free Show On Earth"
Photographed by Craig Doda, December 24, 2021
1. History of "The Greatest Free Show On Earth" Marker
The Circleville Pumpkin Show had its beginning in the fall of 1903 when the mayor, George Haswell, conceived the idea of inviting the farmers of the area to display the fruits of their harvest on the streets of Circleville. The event has endured 100 years. During the two World Wars, the event was postponed for three years.
Business interests of the town supported Mayor Haswell's idea with vigor, and this same spirit still moves the citizens of Pickaway County in preparing for this annual event that attracts over 400,000 visitors to this small community each year in October. The Circleville Pumpkin Show has attracted worldwide attention and acclaim. It is now considered one of the major festivals in the United States with visitors from all across the 50 states and many foreign countries.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Notable Events. A significant historical year for this entry is 1903.
Location. 39° 36.109′ N, 82° 56.665′ W. Marker is in Circleville, Ohio, in Pickaway County. It is on East Main Street (U.S. 22) just east of North Court Street (Ohio Route 188), on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 114 E Main St, Circleville OH 43113, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the Scioto Valley and in the Columbus Metropolitan Area. It is also in the American Midwest and in the Corn Belt. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy, the territory of the Mississippian Culture, and the Northwest Territory.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker
this page online
Another marker is no longer nearby. Napoleon 12-Pounder (was about 500 feet away but has been confirmed missing).
Photographed by Craig Doda, December 24, 2021
2. History of "The Greatest Free Show On Earth" Marker
Photographed by Craig Doda, December 24, 2021
3. History of "The Greatest Free Show On Earth" Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on April 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on January 7, 2022, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. This page has been viewed 475 times since then and 34 times this year. Last updated on April 30, 2023, by Bradley Owen of Morgantown, West Virginia. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on January 7, 2022, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
