Samantha Pearce, 16, of Hamilton, wanted to do a clothing project at the fair featuring her agricultural heritage as well as local products and businesses.

She worked with Lorrae Moon, owner of local wool mill Yampa Valley Fiber Works, and processed local wool from Wellman Ranch.

Samantha was involved in all the procedures of cleaning, dyeing and spinning the wool. Local artisan Susan Domer worked with Samantha to weave the wool into fabric. Samantha then took the fabric and under the direction of her grandmother, Pat Pearce, sewed a simple sheath dress.

“Modeling this piece of Moffat County was such a proud moment for me,” Samantha said. “I was able to show my pride in all the work that came from this totally local project. It also let me experience more than I ever would have imagined while showcasing some amazing people and businesses in our community.”

Samantha’s mom, Stephanie Pearce, was proud of her daughter’s hard work.

“I was so glad to see Samantha think outside of the box for her project,” Stephanie said. “Samantha has won this event several times locally, but because of the extra work that went into this by so many in our community, this was by far the most meaningful win. Getting to see her model it multiple times was a bonus.”

Samantha won Grand Champion in the senior division of the local 4-H fashion revue, which made her eligible to model her creation at State Fair.

Samantha went on to win Grand Champion at State Fair, making her eligible for Western National Roundup (held during National Western Stock Show). Western National Roundup is where winners in each state in multiple 4-H contests, including fashion revue, compete on the national level.

Samantha was required to give a two-minute speech, model and answer onstage questions regarding her project. There, she won Reserve Champion and accomplished a goal of getting national recognition for a local project, helping put Moffat County on the map for its wool industry and artisans.