From segregation to condemnation: the State Fair’s history with Fair Park and South Dallas

The State Fair of Texas is great fun, from corny dogs to the Midway, and Dallas has been proud to be its home since the 19th century. But the fair also has a rough history with South Dallas and other surrounding neighborhoods. That includes segregation and the city’s decision to condemn whole streets to make way for parking. The fair is also the reason Dallas has Fair Park, and the future of the fair and Fair Park are as entwined as the past. Joining the podcast are Anna Hill, longtime president of the Dolphin Heights Neighborhood Association, and Willis Winters, author of Fair Park and the former director of the city’s Park and Recreation Department. They talk about the history and the future of Dallas’ most recognizable event.