13-Year-Old Cartoonist Creates Putnam County Fair Comic

Henry says he brought his pet ducks and chickens to the fair last year, so he was inspired to bring it to life through his comic while simultaneously raising awareness for the fair and raising funds for New York State's 4-H Foundation.

By Melissa Wickes August 13, 2020

This year's Putnam County Fair unfortunately had to be canceled, like many other fairs, festivals, and carnivals in the New York area this summer due to the coronavirus. 13-year-old cartoonist Henry McEvoy created "Ducky Comics," his debut comic issue that takes place in Carmel's Putnam County Fair in order to allow Putnam residents to celebrate and honor the community event in a safe way. Henry says he brought his pet ducks and chickens to the fair last year, so he was inspired to bring it to life through his comic while simultaneously raising awareness for the fair and raising funds for New York State's 4-H Foundation.

The first comic strip, which Henry created in Chappaqua, features a father and son duck visiting the fair and entering a flying contest.

"In this alternate universe a lot can happen, like an out-of-control jetpack, a swat team of ducks, and more!" said Henry.

The comic features quintessential fair sightings like musical performances, animal exhibits, and prize-winning vegetables. In order to create the comic "Unexpected Events at the Putnam County Fair" Henry referenced old family photos, fairground images, and the Putnam County Sherriff's website to draw a patrol car. Henry explained that he wanted his comic to seem like the real fair with his own characters.

"The Putnam County Sheriff's Department supports our youth and commends 13-year-old Henry McEvoy who is using the art of drawing as a safe way to celebrate community events during this pandemic," said Sheriff Robert L. Langley Jr. "We especially like Henry's drawing of the Deputy Patrol car, and wish Henry luck with his 4-H fundraiser."

To download the comic and make a donation to 4-H and fund scholarships for educational programs throughout New York state, click here.