The Russell Agricultural Society has been in the Russell community since 1881. The land in the centre of town was a gift to the Agricultural Society from Major Bolton with his request that this land stay as green space in the town and be a place for recreation, gatherings, and activities that relate to the town’s agricultural roots.
At one time these grounds were the host to horse races with crowds in the grandstands. Barns that stood on the North east corner housed the horses, cattle and other livestock for the yearly fair. School track meets took place every June on these grounds as well as ball games and other recreational activities.
Times have changed. The grandstand is gone and so are the barns. The fair does not happen in the way that it did before. Some of the land has been sold to provide a space for the swimming pool, the expansion of the daycare and to increase the playground for the school. Ball diamonds have been established on the grounds as well as a riding arena.
The Town and RM do not own this land. The Russell Agricultural Society holds the title to this land. We pay property taxes, pay for insurance just like any other home or business in this area, and have full fiscal responsibility that we have to be accountable for. We do apply for grants to help support our endeavors and we appreciate the community and groups that have committed to help support our efforts to look after this land so it can provide a place for recreation and a space for gatherings and activities.
The Russell Agricultural Society’s direction has changed over the years but our commitment has not. We are looking to the future of this green space in the centre of town and are continuing to bring together events and activities that are reminiscent of our agricultural roots. We have barrel racing and cowboy events in the riding arena, events for children in the arena and outside of the arena, ball games on the grounds, markets and socializing. In the future we hope to develop more infrastructure that can be used by all in the community and surrounding areas.
Map of AG Society grounds.
