MOROCCO, IN, — If there’s a place in your heart for county fairs – then you won’t want to miss the premiere of the short documentary Newton County’s Historic Gem – The Domestic Arts Building! The first screening is Saturday, September 30 th , at 7 p.m., at the Newton County Government Center in Morocco. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
The film, by local, Emmy-nominated journalist Leigh Littiken, reveals the unique and lasting impact this building, and the annual Pun’kin Vine Fair have on Newton County. Littiken interviewed several longtime Newton County residents about their memories of the building, including the late Rich Miller, a former fair board president. In the short preview that’s been released, Rich Miller talks about sneaking into the building as a child to eat the pies inside.
The historic Domestic Arts Building began as an eight-sided structure in 1925 — but it was expanded in 1938 to allow more space for women’s entries and girl’s 4H projects. At first, the building was called the “Floral Building”, but over the years it’s been referred to as the “Women’s Building” and most recently the “Domestic Arts Building.” It is the oldest structure standing at the fairgrounds and will celebrate 100 years in 2025.
Littiken, who is also fine arts co-superintendent at the fair, applied for a Historic Preservation Education Grant from Indiana Humanities and Indiana Landmarks — in cooperation with the National Endowment for the Humanities to fund production of the film. The Newton County Fair Association, Jasper Newton Foundation, Newton County Purdue Extension, and Prairie Arts Council all support of the film.
The 98-year-old building is in need of some restoration — carpentry work, new electric, and new showcases. A fundraising drive is underway. Tax-deductible contributions can be made through Jasper Newton Foundation for the The Newton County Fair Association.