It’s the fourth time The Big Fresno Fair has won the Merrill Award, putting it in an exclusive group of fairs. Stephen Chambers, executive director of the Western Fairs Association, was in Fresno Tuesday to present the award as more than 50 history advocates, community leaders and philanthropists looked on.

“Most fairs are content with capturing the hearts of their communities during the 4-21 days of their fair. However, the museum project at The Big Fresno Fair expands that goal to 365 days, turning the property into truly sacred ground for the entire community, each and every day of the year,” stated Chambers.

The Big Fresno Fair dedicated the award to the community network of museum supporters and advocates. In attendance were community leaders such as Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer, Butch Peters, Jim Yovino, Sally Caglia, Bill Lyles, Ruth Lang and others.

“As we’ve always said, the Fresno County Historical Museum would not have been possible without the community involvement. It has been a true collaborative, community effort, which makes this award that much more special to us at The Big Fresno Fair,” said Lauri King, deputy manager II, The Big Fresno Fair.

The Fresno County Historical Museum is one of the biggest capital improvement projects at the Fresno Fairgrounds in recent years. The $3.2 million, 14,000 square-foot, two-story building features 7,000 square feet of display space, showcasing everything from public safety and military memorabilia to agricultural and sports history.