By Mari Radtke
In 2024 Zembsch Heritage Hall at the Marcus Fair Grounds was completed and put into use for the first time. The 70 x 100 foot open space building is used to host the commercial booths during the Marcus Fair.
The Fair Board has been savings its pennies for 7 or 8 years. The project included the demolition and removal of a few older buildings, and a lot of concrete was poured. The roof of the building is insulated well. Kirk Letsche, Fair Board President, explained that helps against heat from direct sun and reduces echo inside. Doors on 3 sides can create a nice airflow for comfort adding to the building’s comfort. He said, “We’ve found that the secret is to lock the building up tight at night. The concrete (floor) stays cool and keeps the building cooler.”
“We’ve had great community support,” Letsche said. The project faced a $300,000 bill to make it all happen. Donations have come in, the fair board has put on a few fundraisers. Letsche made sure to talk about the involvement of Cherokee County Foundation, “The Legacy Foundation.” This organization is designed to administrate the charitable gambling funds awarded to Cherokee County each year. The Legacy Foundation awarded the Marcus Fair with a gift of $5000 to help with the cost of the concrete. Beyond being grateful to The Legacy Foundation for their generous gift, Letsche’s comments about the impact of the organization on this Marcus Fair project as well as so many other projects, year after year through out Cherokee County.
Frannie Zembsch was a lifelong Marcus resident. She spent her career working for the Knudson Law Firm until her retirement. Frannie passed away several years ago. She had established a trust and the Marcus Fair is a recipient of proceeds from that trust, which continues. It was the spirit of support and generosity that inspired the Zembsch Heritage Hall name.
The entire project carries an approximate $300,000 price tag. Through the Zembsch gift, donations, Fair Board savings and fundraisers, all but about $60,000 have been covered. “We knew we were going to carry some debt,” said Letsche about the project. “Our goal is to pay that off by next year’s fair.”
A donor wall has been started on the front of the Zembsch building. Engraved tiles are mounted on the outside, recognizing the generosity of individuals, families, businesses, as memorials or other supporters. Detailed information can be found online at www.marcuscommunityfair.com. Email links are available there or talk with any Fair Board member.