05/14/2026
Preakness 151 is coming to Laurel Park this weekend! In celebration, the Laurel Historical Society has created a special exhibition “Saddle Up, Laurel: 115+ Years of Laurel Park Racing”. Visit the City of Laurel Municipal Center to view the temporary exhibit until May 29th!
The exhibit provides a glimpse into the history of horse racing in Maryland and explores the 115-year-long history of Laurel Park. Visitors will learn about the recognizable faces and names that have graced the track, such as Elizabeth Taylor and the Aga Khan, while discovering more about those who make up the diverse backstretch community, including famous trainers and horses.
Check out the exhibition in person at the City of Laurel Municipal Center (8103 Sandy Spring Rd, Laurel, MD 20707) to view a display of racing artifacts from the LHS collection. Objects showcased include a program from the first Washington, DC International Race, a jockey’s leather racing brassard from A.M. Kroop & Sons, historic photos, and more!
The exhibit is complemented by a new online exhibit that features a more in-depth look at the history of racing, its people, and impact on Laurel. The exhibit is an update to the LHS’s 2011 exhibit celebrating Laurel Park’s 100th Anniversary, “And They’re Off: 100 Years of Laurel Racing.” Take a look online at www.laurelhistoricalsociety.org to view additional materials related to Laurel Park, such as educational videos and unseen panels.
Image: Race at Laurel Park Grandstand before enclosure, Laurel Historical Society, Fisher Collection.
