NORWICH – Barring a brief stint in the late 60s and early 70s, Colman Brothers Shows Inc. has always been the go-to to bring life to the midway at the Chenango County Fair.

Now approaching its 100th year in the carnival business, Coleman Brothers Shows will return to the Chenango County Fairgrounds again this year for yet another round of family friendly rides, games and entertainment.

Started as a one-man show in 1916, Coleman Brothers Shows has since taken off to include more than 30 rides, games and other concessions operated with the help of more than 50 workers during the busy season. It all began when Richard Coleman purchased a used merry-go-round for $250 and charged for rides where it was set up near the Portland Bridge. Word spread about the ride, as did Coleman’s ambitions. He started booking shows in different towns and, with help from his brothers, more rides were purchased and concessions added as the years went by. Eventually, Colman’s sons got in the carnival business as well.