HERITIAGE & HISTORY CENTER • ERIE COUNTY FAIR MUSEUM • HAMBURG
A Quicker, Cheaper Approach to In-House Museum & Exhibit Design
1885 Octagon Building prior to exhibit installation • January 2016
Delivery of cabinetry and exhibit displays in preparation for a staff & volunteer Preview Night • June 2026
The Erie County Fair Heritage & History Center prior to Opening Day • August 2016
Opening Day of the Heritage & History Center at the Erie County Fair, Hamburg, New York - August 2016
One of my most fulfilling projects was the design and completion of the Erie County Fair’s Heritage & History Center, commonly referred to as the "Fair Museum." Housed within the Fair's historic 1885 Octagon Building, the Heritage & History Center debuted during the 177th Fair and highlights over 195 years of agriculture, food, competition, and entertainment—elements that have defined the Erie County Fair experience for generations of Western New Yorkers. Exhibits were thoughtfully curated to honor the cherished traditions that form the foundation of today's Fair while reflecting the evolving nature of our community.
Concept, Design & Layout - Marty BiniaszGraphic Design - Michele Meissner, Authentic Buffalo
Exhibit Support - Marc & Markey MeissnerPanel/Frame System & Signs - VSP GraphicsSignage Consultant - John Murray
Custom Display Cabinetry - ECAS staffAudio/Visual - Southtowns AV Archive Support - Jimmy Barrett
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CORE EXHIBITS OVERVIEW
Core Exhibits Overview
The primary themes of the Erie County Fair were presented using an engaging frame-and-panel system, expertly designed by VSP Marketing of West Seneca. The vibrant graphics displayed on these 4x8 panels were created by Michele Meissner, the former Director of the Toy Town Museum in East Aurora, New York. Thorough research, thoughtful layout, and compelling narratives were contributed by Marty Biniasz.
Pioneer Fairs
Founded in 1819 with its first event held in 1820, this exhibit highlighted the re-establishment of the Agricultural Society in 1841, designed specifically to reconnect the historical bonds between the Erie County Fair and the City of Buffalo.
The Traveling Fair & Finding A Permanent Home
This display traced the Erie County Fair's history through its various temporary locations prior to settling permanently in Hamburg in 1868, offering visitors insight into the Fair’s nomadic past.
Fairgrounds
Using a detailed 1955 map, visitors explored the rich history of the Fair's structures—highlighting both existing and long-lost buildings—and observed the extensive evolution of the grounds over 149 years.
Feeding the Fair
Showcasing the legendary origins of the hamburger, this exhibit celebrated the diverse and influential culinary traditions of the Fair, from classic pizza to modern favorites like fried gummies, demonstrating how Fair food has left a lasting impact on Western New York.
Agriculture & Competition Heritage
Focused on the Agricultural Society’s core mission—"Bigger, Better & the Best!"—this section celebrated the proud history of agriculture, competition, and community spirit. Special panels highlighted significant contributions by the 4-H, FFA, and the Women’s Department (Creative Arts).
Midway & Strates History
Celebrating over 92 years of thrills and excitement, this exhibit chronicled the vibrant history and lasting partnership of the Erie County Fair with James E. Strates Shows, highlighting memorable moments and attractions on the Midway.
Firefighters & Veterans Days
Honoring those who serve and protect, this meaningful exhibit underscored the community’s annual gatherings at the Erie County Fair to pay tribute to veterans, firefighters, and other emergency responders, recognizing their sacrifices and ongoing dedication.
Growing the Fair
Examining the transformative role of transportation advancements from the 1890s and the emergence of electronic media after 1950, this display explored how innovation shaped the Erie County Fair into the largest independent county fair and exposition in the United States.
The primary themes of the Erie County Fair were presented using an engaging frame-and-panel system, expertly designed by VSP Marketing of West Seneca. The vibrant graphics displayed on these 4x8 panels were created by Michele Meissner, the former Director of the Toy Town Museum in East Aurora, New York. Thorough research, thoughtful layout, and compelling narratives were contributed by Marty Biniasz.
Pioneer Fairs
Founded in 1819 with its first event held in 1820, this exhibit highlighted the re-establishment of the Agricultural Society in 1841, designed specifically to reconnect the historical bonds between the Erie County Fair and the City of Buffalo.
The Traveling Fair & Finding A Permanent Home
This display traced the Erie County Fair's history through its various temporary locations prior to settling permanently in Hamburg in 1868, offering visitors insight into the Fair’s nomadic past.
Fairgrounds
Using a detailed 1955 map, visitors explored the rich history of the Fair's structures—highlighting both existing and long-lost buildings—and observed the extensive evolution of the grounds over 149 years.
Feeding the Fair
Showcasing the legendary origins of the hamburger, this exhibit celebrated the diverse and influential culinary traditions of the Fair, from classic pizza to modern favorites like fried gummies, demonstrating how Fair food has left a lasting impact on Western New York.
Agriculture & Competition Heritage
Focused on the Agricultural Society’s core mission—"Bigger, Better & the Best!"—this section celebrated the proud history of agriculture, competition, and community spirit. Special panels highlighted significant contributions by the 4-H, FFA, and the Women’s Department (Creative Arts).
Midway & Strates History
Celebrating over 92 years of thrills and excitement, this exhibit chronicled the vibrant history and lasting partnership of the Erie County Fair with James E. Strates Shows, highlighting memorable moments and attractions on the Midway.
Firefighters & Veterans Days
Honoring those who serve and protect, this meaningful exhibit underscored the community’s annual gatherings at the Erie County Fair to pay tribute to veterans, firefighters, and other emergency responders, recognizing their sacrifices and ongoing dedication.
Growing the Fair
Examining the transformative role of transportation advancements from the 1890s and the emergence of electronic media after 1950, this display explored how innovation shaped the Erie County Fair into the largest independent county fair and exposition in the United States.
Since its opening in 2016, the building has seen consistent visitation by Fairgoers.
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Contributors
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Exhibit Highlights, Design Elements & Features
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About Martin Biniasz
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