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 is a special place for horse racing in Goshen, New York. It's a half-mile (900 m) track where horses compete in a style called harness racing. This means the horse pulls a small cart with a driver sitting in it.
This track first opened in 1838. It has been used for racing ever since. This makes it the oldest horse racing track in North America that has been open all the time.
The Track's Long History
Horse races were happening in Goshen even before the track was built. People raced horses informally along Main Street as early as the 1750s.
The land for the current track was first used in 1838. A small ⅓-mile (530 m) circle was cleared. This circle was around a circus ground. It was prepared for regular horse races.
Over the years, the track changed its shape. First, there was an oval track. Then, a long square track covered the whole area. Finally, the track you see today was built in 1873.
Racing Today
For many years, the Historic Track held races regularly. In the late 1970s, the betting machines were removed. This changed how often races were held.
Today, the track has a shorter but very exciting season. Races happen every summer. They usually take place on Sundays in June. Then, there is a series of races from June 30 to July 4.
A National Treasure
The Historic Track is very important. It was named a National Historic Landmark in 1966. This means it's a place of national historical importance. It was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in the same year. This list helps protect important historical sites.
The track is also part of the Church Park Historic District. This district includes several historic buildings. The Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame is also nearby. It's a great place to learn more about harness racing.
Community Use
The Historic Track is not just for horse racing. Goshen Central High School uses it too. The school holds its yearly graduation ceremony there. Students graduate in front of the grandstands. These grandstands can seat 2,200 fans.
Fire Incident
In 2017, a fire happened at the track. It might have started in the blacksmith's shop. Some barns and stables were damaged. Luckily, all the horses inside were saved. The fire did not harm the main grandstand or other important buildings.
