Photo by Skip Lawrence John Thompson of the Carroll Manor Volunteer Fire Co. makes a batch of French fries at the fire departments’ food tent at the Frederick Fair on Wednesday.

Companies such as Carroll Manor, Vigilant Hose and Libertytown use the fair to earn money.

"It's one of our largest fundraisers," said Ed Arnold, president of Carroll Manor. "We do pretty well here."

Since the company does not have an activities hall to host events such as bingo, it has found other opportunities to raise money.

The company makes about $35,000 each year and as of 3 p.m. Wednesday it had brought in about $6,000 more than at this time last year, Arnold said. Most of the money will go toward a fund for a new building and to pay off the loan on a quint truck.

This is the 53rd year the company has participated in the fair. Until about 10 years ago, patrons were waited on, but now they receive their food cafeteria style.

Fried chicken, country ham, seafood, hot dogs and soups such as vegetable, crab and bean are some of the items on the menu. Some people come for breakfast, lunch, dinner and coffee just before the concerts, Arnold said.

"The same people come back year after year," said Carrie Young, president of the company's auxiliary. "We've got a good reputation."

Hundreds of people make their way through the tent every day of the fair, Arnold said. About 30 company members and community volunteers staff the kitchen.

"We have a bunch of hard-working volunteers," Arnold said.

Near the Carroll Manor company, patrons can find the Vigilant Hose and Libertytown fire companies' booths.

Crab cakes, French fries, hot dogs and cheeseburgers are some of the items that go fast on Libertytown 's menu, said past chief George Norris. Although he declined to reveal the amount the company earns, the money goes toward equipment.

Vigilant Hose will use the money it earns this week, about $30,000, to renovate its firehouse, said Capt. Chris Stahley. After nearby apartments were demolished, the company will be expanding its building to include a lounge, bunk and exercise rooms.

Vigilant Hose has been at the fair for the past 22 years and about 25 volunteers a day help prepare and sell food.

"It seems like a lot of work but I think everyone has a great time," Stahley said.

Its menu includes crab cakes, hot dogs and French fries.

"They have the best crab cakes here," said a gentleman ordering at the counter.

"Well, there you go," Stahley said. "We hear that quite a bit."