As a practicing veterinarian, Dr. James McClellan was at the fair every year tending to a number of the animals on exhibit. He saw firsthand what the Frederick County Agricultural Society was doing to better the fair, and he liked what he saw. When a membership became available in 1957, Dr. McClellan decided to join. He was elected to the Board of Managers in July 1966.
Dr. McClellan served as president of the Frederick County Agricultural Society in 1977 and 1978. He is currently chairman of the Entertainment Committee.
The Great Frederick Fair is a tradition for Dr. McClellan. He remembers his father purchasing a season ticket to the grandstand, and he and his family visited the fair every year.
Dr. McClellan has remained active in Maryland politics. In 1973 he became a Frederick County Alderman, which he followed with joining the Maryland House of Delegates. He remained in the House for 10 years. Dr. McClellan has also lobbied for the Maryland State Veterinarian Medicine Association, Allegheny Power, and the Frederick Surgical Center. He is currently a commissioner with the Frederick County Liquor Commission.