Oaklawn celebrating one hundred years
By: Import User
Updated: January 7, 2009
In 1904, 40 men and $500,000 built America`s first track to have a glass-enclosed and steam heated grandstand.
Opening day was declared a half-holiday by the mayor.
Today racing enthusiast wager $250 million every year.
But it`s been a wild ride. In 1907, a law was passed that outlawed racing. A constable raided Oaklawn and booked several officials.
Races were back up in 1916 but not for long. Politics put a stop to racing in Arkansas in 1920.
But since 1934, racing has been going strong.
This weekend is opening weekend.
Concession prices will be rolled back to what they were 100 years ago.
