Aiken Mile Track
National Register Listing
Street Address:
Banks Mill Rd., Aiken, SC (Aiken County)
NRHP Nomination Form
Record Number:
S10817702024
Description and Narrative:
The Aiken Mile Track was constructed ca. 1936 by Ira Coward for Fred Post, Dunbar Bostwick, and Roland Harriman on the Hassler Polo Fields. The track was designed to train and race trotters. Around 1937, a turf track in the infield (middle track) was built for flat racing and hurdle racing. In 1938 another strip of turf was added for steeplechasing (center track) making the Mile Track capable of handling a diversified training and racing program. The Aiken Mile Track was the home of the Imperial Cup hurdle race first run in 1938. This property has been identified as being associated with the Aiken Winter Colony. The Aiken Mile Track is of exceptional importance to the Winter Colony theme because its construction between 1936 and 1938 added a new dimension to equestrian activity in Aiken. It was also instrumental in Aiken’s continuing success as a horse-training center during the Depression and during and after World War II. The Aiken Mile Track consists of three concentric tracks and eight contributing buildings. The center one-half mile track is used for training, the middle seven-eighths mile track is used for jogging and the outer mile track is used for training and racing. The entire track system is surrounded by a rail fence. Among the buildings included in the complex are a brick stable building, three frame stables, two grooms’ cottages, a barn, and a grandstand. Also included in the complex are four modern barns and a blacksmith shop. Listed in the National Register May 9, 1985.
Period of Significance:
1936 – 1938
Level of Significance:
National
Area of Significance:
Entertainment/Recreation
National Register Determination:
listed
Date of Certification:
May 9 1985
