Treasures of the Vault

Treasures of the Vault: Highlights from the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame's Collection, McBean Gallery.  On display from May 27, 2015 to June 18, 2017.

The National Museum of Racing Inc. received its absolute charter from the New York State Education Department's Board of Regents in October of 1950.  Founded by George D. Widener, F. Skiddy von Stade, Donald P. Ross, Kenneth K. Burke, Nelson Dunstan, John Hay Whitney, Carleton F. Burke, John C. Clark and Cornelius V. Whitney, the Museum's outlined purpose as stated on this original charter is as follows:

"To establish a museum for the collection, preservation and exhibition of books, documents and other printed or written material, statuary, paintings, pictures, films, memorials and any and all other kinds of articles associated with the origin, history and development of horse racing and the breeding of thoroughbred horses."

After two locations and multiple expansions, the National Museum of Racing still holds true to that original purpose and strives to promote and educate its visitors on the history and excitement of Thoroughbred racing in America through the exhibition of the treasures from its diverse collection.  

With fine art, works on paper, photography, historical artifacts, trophies, programs and souvenirs of racing days past, the Museum has something for everyone in its collection, from the racing enthusiast to the art historian. Treasures of the Vault showcased some of the oldest items in our collection and celebrated some of the treasures featured in previous Museum exhibitions in honor of our 65th anniversary.