One of Mercer County’s most historic youth organizations is celebrating a remarkable milestone this week. The Kimel 4-H Club is turning 100 years old, and club leader Becky Zwilling is making sure fairgoers get the chance to honor the club’s legacy—and see the future of local agriculture on full display.
Zwilling, who serves as a club leader and mentor, is coordinating a two-part celebration in honor of Kimel’s centennial year. The first event will be a soft celebration held during Kids Day at the Mercer County Fair on Wednesday, July 9, from 1 to 4 p.m. “We want families, alumni, and community members to come out and share memories,” said Zwilling. “A lot has changed over the years—especially the fairgrounds—but the spirit of 4-H remains the same.”
Visitors can stop by the Exposition Building, where they’ll find historic memorabilia, photographs, and displays created by current club members. Zwilling explained that members are taking an active role in preparing for the celebration. One member is baking cookies for the gathering, while another has taken on a historical research project, collecting stories and information about the club’s founding and impact over the years.
A particularly touching piece of history on display includes a newly unearthed photograph of Irene Brown Kimball, one of the club’s early standout members. The photo, sent in by John Attig near Chicago, shows Irene hugging her father after winning at the Chicago International in 1938—a rare and emotional image for the time. “It’s a beautiful moment, and something that wouldn’t have been typical in that era. It says a lot about her story and the love in her family,” said Zwilling. The photo is not in the official museum collection, so Becky has scanned and submitted it to ensure it’s preserved for future generations.
Zwilling also noted that photography itself has changed dramatically since the club’s founding in 1925, making the gathering of visual history an exciting challenge. “We’re looking for old ribbons, family pictures, project records—anything that tells the story of what this club has meant to local families for generations.”
The 100th anniversary celebration will continue later in the year, with a full birthday party scheduled for September 14 at the Mercer County Fairgrounds. Zwilling hopes to see many current and former 4-H members attend and reflect on how the organization has shaped their lives.
In the meantime, visitors are encouraged to explore the Exposition Building throughout fair week to see general projects by today’s Kimel 4-H members. From woodworking and floral arrangements to creative innovations like a record-stand crafted from scratch, the displays reflect the creativity and work ethic of a new generation. “These kids are so talented,” Zwilling said. “You walk through and think, ‘How did they even think of that?’”
Zwilling also reminded fairgoers not to miss Friday night’s 4-H Youth Livestock Auction—a signature event that brings the community together to support young agriculturalists. “That auction showcases the heart of what 4-H is all about: dedication, hard work, and community support,” she said.