Like the two decades before, the 1940s was a decade of expansion and growth for the Cattle Congress. In 1947 it had expanded from just cattle judging into other areas of interest. There were ribbon contests that pinned blue ribbons in divisions such as poultry, canned goods, rabbits, soybeans, and textiles. It was during this time that the Cattle Congress began to reach national prominence, and almost every cent that it drew in went towards further increasing its attractiveness nationwide. In the mid 1940s the show had been "designated a National Exposition by increased numbers of dairy cattle breed organizations."30 This national exposure created a demand for more space and buildings. "In 1947 the new Exposition building (200' by 340') and a new barn (84' by 180') were constructed at a cost of $160,653.95.31 In 1948 another barn was constructed, more land was purchased, and a parking lot was built for another 70,000 dollars. At the end of the 1940s the Dairy Cattle Congress was 140,000 dollars in debt, and was paying over 10,000 dollars a year for interest and insurance alone. Even though it was in debt, the fruits of its labors were being harvested. In 1948 it gained, once again, national prominence when four of the National Dairy Cattle Breed Organizations declared that the 1948 Cattle Congress would be their Nationals.

     The 1950s were a relatively quiet time for the Dairy Cattle Congress. One of the biggest events of that decade occurred in 1958. That was the year that E.S. Estel retired. Estel had been the Dairy Cattle Congress's secretary-manager for 42 years. He had been with the Cattle Congress from its inception, and he had played an important role in the Cattle Congress's success. Estel was proudest of the fact that he was instrumental in getting the Dairy Shrine Club established. This club was a type of hall of fame for leaders in the dairy field. Another achievement of his was the Belgian Horse Show. For Estel's work with the show, King Albert of Belgium knighted him. To have an individual recognized in this fashion was a true testament to just how important E.S. Estel was to the Cattle Congress. Anybody who visits the Cattle Congress will no doubt recognize the Estel building. Another indicator of just how important Estel was to the operation of the Cattle Congress is indicated by the perils that visited the Cattle Congress after he retired. The Cattle Congress was entering a period when its very existence was to be challenged.