ALTENBURG — Buchheit will mark 91 years of serving Perry County by once again taking part in the long-standing tradition of the East Perry Community Fair, and where it’s been announced that Kenny and Rhonda Buchheit have been selected as this year’s grand marshals.
Adding to the celebration, Max Armstrong — known nationwide as “The Voice for American Agriculture” — will join the Buchheit family for the festivities. Armstrong is slated to ride in the parade on his family’s Farmall Super M tractor, now a featured piece in the American Tractor Museum.
The museum, founded by Kenny Buchheit and part of the Buchheit Family of Companies, honors and preserves the history of American agriculture in Perry County.
“It’s a great honor to be named grand marshal of the East Perry Fair, especially when I think about the many great people who have held this role before me — including my dad,” said Kenny Buchheit. “This recognition isn’t just about me; it represents the entire Buchheit family, our company and our incredible team members. We are deeply humbled to share in this tradition and grateful to be part of a community and a fair that means so much to us.”
For more than nine decades, Buchheit has supported agriculture, local families and rural communities. The company says this year’s fair appearance is both a celebration of that tradition and a look ahead.
This year’s fair runs Sept. 19–20, with the parade scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Sept. 19.
About Buchheit Inc.: Founded in 1934, Buchheit Retail operates stores across Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas and Kentucky, including a Perryville location.
The East Perry Community Fair, long known as the “Best Little Fair in the Land,” returns Friday and Saturday, Sept. 19–20, at the East Perry Fairgrounds, 200 Church St. in Altenburg.
The fair opens with a parade at 1:30 p.m. Friday, followed by an opening ceremony with the parade’s Grand Marshal. A full lineup of live music is scheduled both days, capped by Silver-Tone on Saturday night.
Popular traditions return, including the “World Champion” Jumping Mule Competition on Saturday afternoon, along with the 4x4 Truck Pull on Friday and the Hot Rod Tractor Pull on Saturday.
Goldstar Amusements will also provide carnival rides for the third year. Fairgoers can also browse exhibits ranging from homegrown produce and baked goods to fine arts and handicrafts, reflecting the fair’s deep community roots. Local families have spent months preparing entries in categories that showcase the skills and traditions passed down through generations.
For many, a trip to Altenburg each September is as much about catching up with friends and neighbors as it is about the events themselves. Competitions in 4-H, FFA, and other departments will be held, with livestock judging concluding in Saturday’s auction. More than 20 food and drink stands — including the fair’s famous grilled cheese sandwiches — will be open throughout the weekend.
Admission, parking, and entertainment remain free. For additional information about the Buchheit family or the American Tractor Museum, contact Michael Sheppard at michael.sheppard@buchheits.com.
A complete schedule and additional information about the fair can be found in the East Perry Community Fair special section included in next week’s issue.
