The original street fairs were run entirely by the community.  The merchants ran a circular with sales, the profit made for the sale circular paid for two or three rides for the children and colorful banners strung from the stores to the street poles. The rides for the children were free; tickets were given out by the merchants who ran advertisements in the circular.




The vendors one street were community clubs. Organization, and churches, which ran flea markets, cake sales, book tables and the like. No outside vendors were allowed. It was a complete community event run by the community for the sake of the community. The original Gateway Street fairs were enjoyed by all.



 

One of our volunteers we could always count on was Jimmy Shanahan who represented the 43-09 47^th Avenue tenants association. Jimmy loves children and was always ready to help keep our local kids entertained not only at our street fairs, but marched in the parades and even played Santa Clause in December. We are happy to share these pictures taken at different fairs in the late 1970's to early 1980’s.One of the best thing about the early street fairs; it was a festival about community people enjoying their own neighborhood.

Thank you Jimmy!