Historic Track facts for kids
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Historic Track
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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A trotter working out on the track
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| Location | Goshen, NY |
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| Nearest city | Middletown |
| Built | 1838 |
| Part of | Church Park Historic District (ID80002735) |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000560 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | May 23, 1966 |
| Designated CP | November 17, 1980 |
The Historic Track in Goshen, New York, is a special place for horse racing. It's a half-mile (900 m) track where horses pull drivers in two-wheeled carts. This track first opened in 1838 and has been used for racing ever since. That makes it the oldest horse racing track in North America that has been open without stopping!
Contents
A Long History of Horse Racing
People have loved horse racing in Goshen for a very long time. Informal races happened on Main Street as early as the 1750s. The land where the Historic Track is today was first used for racing in 1838. Back then, it was a smaller, circular track. The track we see today was built in 1873.
A President Visits
A famous visitor came to the track in June 1873. Ulysses Grant, who was the President of the United States at the time, attended races there. He was in town to check on the children of a friend, and he took time to enjoy the exciting races.
What Happens at the Track Today
For many years, the Historic Track held regular racing events. Today, it hosts special racing festivals. One big event is a three-day festival around the July 4th holiday. There is also an extra day of racing around Labor Day. These events bring many fans to watch the harness races.
A National Treasure
The Historic Track is very important to American history. In 1966, it was named a National Historic Landmark. This means it's a place recognized for its special historical value. It was also added to the National Register of Historic Places that same year. The grandstands, where fans sit, can hold 2,200 people. Nearby, you can also find the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame, which teaches visitors all about this sport.
Rebuilding After a Fire
In 2017, a fire broke out at the track. It might have started in the blacksmith's shop. Some barns and stables were destroyed, but luckily, all the horses were saved! The main grandstand and other buildings were not harmed. New barns were built to replace the ones that burned down and were ready in 2019.
See also
- List of horse racing venues
- List of National Historic Landmarks in New York
