<P> The first Eastern States Exposition occurred in 1916 . It was originally conceived by Joshua L. Brooks as a way to help promote agriculture and educate young people with the skills and knowledge needed in agricultural vocations . The Exposition featured displays of innovations in the industry, and held contests designed to encourage farmers to better themselves through competition . Since the first Exposition, only World War I and World War II, during which the military requisitioned the grounds as storage depots, have interrupted the annual tradition . </P> <P> The Fair was first titled "The Big E" in 1967 and remains true to its agricultural roots today, with more than 7,100 4 - H and FFA participants, and 1,100 open - show exhibitors, as well as educational displays and attractions . </P> <P> One of the most popular attractions at The Big E is the Avenue of States . The Avenue is said to contain life - size replicas of the six original New England statehouses, as well as the New England Grange House . In actuality the state houses are not replicas but rather modeled after original state houses in most instances . The buildings for New Hampshire and Vermont have no resemblance to their original state houses . </P> <P> These buildings feature exhibits and vendors that best exemplify the heritage, food, and traditions of each state . Food vendors can be found in each building selling items that are traditional to their jurisdiction . For example, the Maine House offers lobster, blueberry, and potato items, while the Vermont House has Ben and Jerry's ice cream, maple syrup, and cheddar cheese . Vendors also sell locally - made products and handicrafts . The Maine baked potatoes have become an icon, with buyers regularly joining long lines during the fair's busier periods . The Connecticut building supplies Timex watches, as well as Lego, which has a factory there . </P>

What does the e stand for in the big e