June is synonymous with the Belmont Stakes, run annually every June at Long Island’s beautiful Belmont Park. For the Turf History Times, Long Island is also synonymous with its legendary 19th-century track, the Union Course. The Times visited the former site of this course in …
Neir’s Tavern in Queens, Opened in 1829 by the Union Race Course, Will Close January 12
While in New York for the 2013 Belmont Stakes, Times staff visited Neir's Tavern in Woodhaven, knowing its unique history and ties to the sport of horse racing. Neir's was originally opened in 1829 as The Blue Pump Room by Cadwallader Colden, track proprietor for the nearby Union …
The Great Match Race– Part I., Napoleon Challenges the North
"The way in which either party managed to improve their horses was kept as much a secret as the mysteries of Isis.” -- Niles' Weekly Register The Year: 1823. The American Turf Register and Sporting Magazine called it the “annus mirabilis in racing annals" – the “year of …
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The Great Match Race, Part II. — Which Hero of Napoleon’s Southern Army Will Face Eclipse?
“On arriving, we found an assembly which was simply overpowering; it was estimated that there were over one hundred thousand persons upon the ground.” -- Josiah Quincy, Jr. The Contenders Colonel Johnson rallied the resources of the South in the months leading up to …
The Great Match Race, Part III. — See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes!
“As he took the lead what a roar of excitement went up! Tens of thousands of dollars were in suspense, and although I had not a cent depending, I lost my breath, and felt as if a sword had passed through me.” -- Josiah Quincy, Jr. The Great Match Race: The First …
[Read more...] about The Great Match Race, Part III. — See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes!