The Heart of the Turf: Racing’s Black Pioneers traveling exhibit, developed and shared by the Keeneland Library, highlights the lives and careers of 100 African American horsemen and -women from the mid-1800s to the present. One-of-a-kind photographs from Keeneland Library collections capture moments across their varied careers, while biographical vignettes honor their lasting legacies.
From racetrack superstars to behind-the-scenes caretakers, The Heart of the Turf: Racing’s Black Pioneers showcases select stories of the countless African Americans who forged their way in Kentucky and beyond from the era of slavery to the present, making the racing industry what it is today.
Since it launched in 2023, more than 85,000 youth and adults have freely engaged with the exhibit across Kentucky.
The Heart of the Turf: Racing's Black Pioneers will be on exhibit at the Paul Sawyier Public Library February 1 through March 31.
Curator: Roda Ferraro
Historical Consultant: Yvonne Giles
Exhibit Panel Designer: Jessica Downey
Exhibit Sponsor:
Keeneland Association
Click Here for More Information on the Exhibit