In 1913, Brandon was the site of the Dominion Fair. Display Building No. II was constructed for the fair in that year and was used to display and promote agricultural and manufacturing innovations from across Canada. The structure is a rare surviving example of agricultural buildings constructed in Manitoba, and the only surviving building constructed for the Dominion Fairs (1879-1913) in all of Canada. It has both Provincial and National Heritage designation.
Display Building No. II was designed by Walter H. Shillinglaw and David Marshall, two prominent Brandon architects. The building is typical of the Beaux-Arts Classicism style of architecture popular for monumental buildings around the turn of the 20th century. This one-storey, wood frame building incorporates multiple windows and a four corner cupola, using pediments and pilasters to create the impression of sophistication.
The Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba recently received partial funding from the provincial and federal government for restoration. The intent is to create office space for nonprofit agricultural organizations including the Exhibition, as well as an interactive agricultural museum.