Restored Missouri 4-H Building opens at State Fair

SEDALIA, Mo. – A landmark on the Missouri State Fairgrounds will begin a new chapter as the Missouri 4-H Foundation and Missouri State Fair celebrate the restoration of the historic Missouri 4-H Building with a public ribbon-cutting ceremony 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13.

Originally constructed in 1905, the 4-H Building has welcomed generations of 4-H members, volunteers, families and fairgoers. “For more than a century, it has served as a gathering place where young people have showcased their achievements, built lifelong friendships and celebrated the values of Missouri 4-H,” said Rachel Augustine, executive director of the Missouri 4-H Foundation.

The restoration project preserves the building’s historic character while making improvements that will allow it to continue serving Missouri 4-H youths and visitors for years to come. The project was made possible through fundraising efforts led by the Missouri 4-H Foundation in partnership with the Missouri State Fair, along with the generosity of donors and supporters from across the state, Augustine said.

“This building represents far more than bricks and mortar,” she said. “For generations of Missourians, it has been the backdrop for unforgettable 4-H memories and life-changing experiences. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who invested in preserving this historic space so it can continue inspiring young people for generations to come.”

The 4-H Building remains one of the most recognizable landmarks on the fairgrounds and continues to serve as a hub for Missouri 4-H activities during the Missouri State Fair.

Following the ribbon-cutting, guests are invited to tour the restored building and learn more about its history, the restoration process and the many donors and partners who made the project possible.

The restoration reflects a shared commitment to preserving an important piece of Missouri’s agricultural and youth development history while ensuring the building remains a welcoming place for future generations of 4-H members, Augustine said.

For more information about the ribbon-cutting ceremony or to learn more about supporting Missouri 4-H, contact the Missouri 4-H Foundation at 573-882-2680 or visit the Missouri 4-H Foundation website.

About Missouri 4-H

Missouri 4-H grows today’s youth and prepares tomorrow’s leaders. With a blend of time-tested traditions and innovative hands-on learning, Missouri youth explore and find their spark in programs ranging from agriculture and conservation to aerospace and career development. Through clubs, programs, camps, in-school and after-school experiences, University of Missouri Extension faculty, staff and thousands of volunteers guide youth in developing essential skills, building confidence and fostering connections. Together, they inspire young people to make a real difference in their communities, their country and the world.

About the Missouri 4-H Foundation

The Missouri 4-H Foundation is the affiliated nonprofit partner of the University of Missouri Extension 4-H Center for Youth Development. For more than 75 years, the foundation has secured and managed funds for Missouri 4-H, providing higher education scholarships, recognizing 4-H volunteers and supporting the work of MU Extension 4-H.

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The restoration of the 4-H Building at the Missouri State Fairgrounds will be celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday, Aug. 13.