The Gilsland Gala and Foal Show Society was formed in 1914 following the demise of the Nether Denton Foal Show.

Preparation was made for the first Show to be held on the first Saturday in September but due to the 1st World War it was decided at a meeting of the society on Tuesday Aug 18 1914. "That owing to the unsettled state of the country owing to the operation of the war and the great doubt existing as to the procreation of entries and other matters it unanimously decided on the motion of MR J Elliot and Seconded by the Chairman Mr Henderson that the show be cancelled".

So the first Show was held in 1915 with horses, ponies, dogs and sheep as well as classes for Butter, Eggs and Bread - and also Running Long Jump, Wrestling 11 stone, Cup Smashing, Old Penny Pitching and Pillow Fight!

The popularity of the Horse and Pony Showing classes led to the need for a separate Equestrian Show and since 1999 this has been held at the end of July/beginning of August. Pony sports remain a fixture on the main Agricultural Show day.