Venango Fairgrounds Additional Historical Information

In its initial state, the Rural Electrification Administration (REA) battled to be recognized in the eyes of the nation. REA had gained the support of Congress, the House of Representatives, and even the President of the United States. Now it was time to campaign for an even more important vote -- that of rural America. 

REA banked on the cooperative spirit when approaching farmers. The cruel elements and nature of farm life made them natural cooperators. From barn raisings to quiltings, they were there to lend a helping hand to their neighbors to make things work for everyone. A pattern developed throughout rural America. Having heard about REA, people held meetings, canvassed the countryside, and banded together to form electric co-ops. 

With anything new, it took some persuading to convince people of its worth. Electricity was a luxury and five dollars was a large amount of money to pay for a membership fee due to the depression. "It took a lot of visiting and good free-will work, and there were a lot of sleepy mornings," said Bill McDanel, co-op pioneer. Farmers were afraid of being in debt to the government, the possibility of REA folding, and when it came to rights-of-way easements, afraid of electricity itself. The cure for the myths and fears the farmers had of poles being put into their land was simple; "always tell them the truth," this was the philosophy of Central Electric Cooperative's (CEC's) E.W. MacDonald and Bill McKinley, early co-op pioneers, who were known for being "diplomats in the field."

REA was designed to provide all those who wanted power with electricity. This was accomplished under a principle known as area coverage. This meant the entire line had to "work" in order to pay back the loan, not just denser populated areas. Farmers started to become more loyal to the co-ops when they realized their aim was to serve everyone, not just the cream of the service area. 

With more and more farmers now having access to electricity, REA developed a program designed to promote, demonstrate and educate. The Farm Equipment Tour, better known as the REA circus, brought its message to nearly one million farmers in 26 states. From 1939 to 1941, the traveling "big top" helped rural America understand the labor-saving uses of their newfound friend -- electricity. During this time, local CEC pioneers were doing their own circus. They would travel to local events like county fairs to try and recruit local residents to join the co-op. 

Farmers found that electricity lent a steady hand with farm chores and their wives were thankful for the relief it brought from the burden of housework. Within a month after one project was energized, a survey of purchases showed the popularity of electrical appliances. Electric irons and radios were top picks with 84.3% of the people buying them. Others were close behind: washers 63.2%, vacuums 48.2%, toasters 35.5%, motors 21.1%, and water pumps 16.2%.