Curry history full of state queens

The first edition of the New Mexico State Fair was held Oct. 9-16 in 1938. Over the years since that time the event has become known as The Biggest Show in New Mexico.

To quote Dan Mourning, executive director of Expo New Mexico, “It is iconic, it represents everything that is great about New Mexico.”

The theme for the 80th anniversary is “Love is in the Fair.” The 11-day event began Sept. 6 and runs through Sunday.

An expected attendance for 2018 is 460,000, from many states and other parts of the world.

The tradition of selecting a New Mexico State Fair queen was started by then-State Fair Commissioner E. Lee Francis in 1950. For Curry County, this became an experience that has been life changing for some 57 young women who have represented the county over these years.

Since 1950, nine from Curry County have won the title of New Mexico State Fair queen.

The annual competition is judged on horsemanship, personality, appearance and knowledge of current events and the Western lifestyle.

Deanne Guthrie of Clovis, 2018 Pioneer Days Rodeo queen, is representing Curry County this year.

A reunion of former state fair queens is planned for Saturday. Some 32 are confirmed to attend.

As the 1950 state fair queen, I will be their host.

Plans are for all to be special guests and recognized at the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association rodeo that evening.

Included is a list of all Curry County queens through the years.

Wilma Fulgham has long championed the Western way of life. Contact her at: [email protected]