1 minute read
Making a Difference
“Intensifed segregation coupled with other political and economic shifs in the U.S. at the turn of the 20th century forced many Black horsemen to seek work outside the industry in growing urban industrial hubs of the North or in racing overseas,” she continued.
Several of these horsemen met success overseas, but others were unable to pursue the work they had grown accustomed to.
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“It doesn’t mean the knowledge that had been instilled in them from their prior generation wasn’t passed on to the next generation,” said Ferraro. “But it ofen manifested in diferent ways and tended to be more behind-the-scenes in the limited industry roles still available to Black horsemen and women through much of the 20th century.”
More info
The exhibit is free and open to the public from Feb. 23 to Aug. 31 during the library’s hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For exhibit guided tours or group educational programming, email Roda Ferraro at rferraro@keeneland.com.
Exhibit Contributors:
Hank and Mary Brockman
Coleman D. Callaway III
Kirk Hoefing
Catherine Clay Neal
Cross Gate Gallery
International Museum of the Horse
Kentucky Derby Museum
Phoenix Rising Lex
Exhibit Developers:
Historical Consultant:
Yvonne Giles
Exhibit Curator: Roda Ferraro
Installation Consultant:
Kirk Hoefing
Library Director: Becky Ryder
Author Events
Two installments of the Library Lecture Series will feature authors who have written books related to “The Heart of theTurf: Racing’s Black Pioneers” and conducted their research at Keeneland Library.
On May 11, Katherine Mooney will discuss “Isaac Murphy:The Rise and Fall of a Black Jockey.”
On June 22, Mark Shrager will talk about “The First Kentucky Derby:Thirteen Black Jockeys, One Shady Owner, andThe Little Red HorseThatWasn’t Supposed toWin.”
Both programs will be held at the library from 6:30-8:30 p.m., and admission is $10.The authors’ presentations will be followed by receptions and book signings. A limited number of copies of featured books will be available for purchase.
Tickets are available at tickets. Keeneland.com. Both Library Lecture Series events will be livestreamed on Keeneland’sYouTube channel.
