Henry Clay McDowell facts for kids

Henry Clay McDowell (born February 9, 1832 – died November 18, 1899) was an American businessman. He was also a well-known breeder of Standardbred horses. These horses are famous for their speed in harness racing.

Early Life and Family

Henry Clay McDowell was born in New York City in 1832. In 1857, he married Anne Smith Clay. She was the daughter of Henry Clay Jr.. Her famous grandfather was the statesman Henry Clay.

Henry and Anne had seven children together. They lived in Louisville, Kentucky for many years. In 1883, they bought Ashland Farm. This historic farm in Lexington, Kentucky had once belonged to Anne's grandfather, Henry Clay.

Service and Business

During the American Civil War, Henry McDowell served in the Union Army. He became a Major on the staff of General William Rosecrans.

After the war, McDowell became a successful businessman. He was the president of the Lexington and Eastern Railway. This company helped transport goods and people by train.

Horse Breeding

Henry Clay McDowell was very interested in horses. He was especially known for breeding Standardbred horses. These horses are a special breed known for their trotting and pacing abilities.

In 1883, McDowell bought a famous Standardbred horse named Dictator. Dictator was a top "sire," meaning he was a very important father horse. He was one of the four most influential sons of another famous horse, Hambletonian.

Legacy

Henry Clay McDowell passed away in 1899 when he was 67 years old. An obituary in The San Francisco Call newspaper called him "probably the best known citizen of Kentucky in private life." This shows how respected he was.

His children also achieved great things. His son, Henry Jr., became a respected judge. Another son, Thomas, was a successful horseman. He even won the 1902 Kentucky Derby, a very famous horse race.

His daughter, Madeline, became a well-known social reformer. She worked hard to improve child welfare. She also focused on health issues and women's rights.