Racing at the Dawn of the United States

 

On display in the Link Gallery from January 10 to December 27, 2026

In 2026, the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding with the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. The Museum is marking the occasion with an exhibit that explores the history of thoroughbred horse racing from the American colonial period to the emergence of the United States as a new republic in the early nineteenth century. The exhibition invites visitors to learn about the early history of the sport, highlighting key figures, races, and horses of the time. It features selections from the Museum’s collection and is enhanced with loans from Keeneland Library, the New York Racing Association, Cate Masterson, and Charles V. Wait. 

 

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