Retro Fair Haven Firemen’s Fair Foodie Time

Fair Haven Firemen’s Fair take-out booth of 1995
Photo/Elaine Van Develde

Well, the rain may have dampened Fair Haven Firemen’s Fair attractions on a rainy Tuesday night, but things in the kitchen were still cooking strong.

The rain didn’t close down all of that the end of the summer tradition that’s been celebrated for more than a century.

The kitchen crew beat went on — prepping and cooking up some of that classic fair food for which people line up all night long. And, as some of the fire company folks will tell you, the best time to hit the dining room or take-out window is in inclement weather. On usual nights, lines start forming before the kitchen opens.

Wednesday night? Well, get in line.

All fair food memories considered, the Retro Pic of the Day honors the fair kitchen and take-out booth. It’s a shot from the summer of 1995.

They had musssels marinara for $3 and quarts of that famous fair clam chowder for $6.

Recognize the ladies taking orders? One is no longer with us. But both were pioneer women of the Fair Haven First Aid Squad. One is still a member and you’ll see her in the dining room at the fair to this day.

Just looking at this photo can’t you smell that fried seafood in the air already?

— Elaine Van Develde