The Elisha Winn Fair is a major fund-raising event for the Gwinnett Historical Society. The family-friendly affair was well attended despite early morning mist and drizzle. There were a myriad of activities during the day that included, touring the home and observing Carol Adams weave fabric on the antique loom; listening to bluegrass and country music; shopping for handmade crafts, jewelry, and quilts from the variety of vendors; sampling home-made goodies; watching reenactors – volunteers from the Fort Daniel Foundation – demonstrate the use of muskets and various guns used during the 1800s; and hearing about Gwinnett’s rich history as Gwinnett Historian, Mary Long, and Gwinnett Historical Society’s Co-President, Beverly Paff, spoke with visitors as they toured the old schoolhouse.
Betty Warbington, Co-President of the Gwinnett Historical Society, was thrilled to see the crowds attending the event. “What a wonderful beginning and a great way for Gwinnett to kick-off its centennial celebration. We’re excited for everyone to see this historical place. I love the fair. The property just comes alive.”
Native and exotic reptiles, consisting of snakes, chameleons, an alligator, and a tortoise named Elvis, were on hand. In addition, the property is home to an old jail, a cotton storehouse, blacksmith house, barn, a period garden, and a nature trail.
The Elisha Winn House, built in 1812, is the birthplace of Gwinnett County, becoming a part of the county on December 15, 1818. The structure, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and maintained by the Gwinnett Historical Society, is the oldest surviving building in Gwinnett and is considered among one of the oldest houses in Atlanta.
{module Gwinnett Historical Society Hosts 39th Annual Elisha Winn Fair}
