From Stephen D. Thompson In late April 2017 I developed a survey that addressed the future of harness racing in the State of Maine. I urge each of you to read the findings of this survey and as you read highlight or take notes. Which of these findings agree with your thinking? Which of these findings do…
This post features the preliminary results for Lost Trotting Parks’ Harness Racing Survey that has been available for Maine Harness Horsemen and women and harness racing fans to complete. At this date, there are 67 respondents to this survey. Forty two of the respondents are from the State of Maine. The survey will be online through July….
An article in a 19th century horse periodical stated, Harness racing is at its best when it is part of a greater event. In the 19th and early 20th century that greater event was an agricultural fair. As we move into the 21th century it may be time to find that greater event that will bring fans…
— WHO BENEFITS — When planning for change one usually expects a positive outcome. However, how do you plan and do so with an understanding of who really benefits? The harness racing industry needs to change. Many have made that statement. Yet, if harness racing is to change, it must change for the better. And with change,…
— Bringing the Past to Present to Create the Future — This storyboard presents harness racing in Oxford County in 1939 when both horsemen and fans were fully engaged in the sport of harness racing. The following PDF link contains what I call “The Plan it! Do it! Workshop.” Download this link and use the format offered…
S. Dexter’s The Maine Spirit of the Turf’s May Issue features the story of C.H. Nelson and his famous trotting stallion, Nelson 4209. Nelson’s story is compelling. Nelson grew up in the towns of Palermo and Branch Mills. His father owned a small general story and worked as a teacher. From an early age Nelson discovered his…
The February 2017 issue of S. Dexter’s The Maine Spirit of the Turf has been published. The link within this post allows you to download the issue onto your computer. This issue features the beginning of the Maine Agricultural Fair season with it January convention at the Holiday Inn by the Bay in Portland, Maine. This 36…
The “Maine Spirit” Initiative presents stories and images that display Maine people demonstrating their commitment, dedication and sacrifice in order to do the work they love. The images below show the work being done at the Indiana Meadows Training Center in West Gardiner, Maine. I have spent part of two days interviewing the horsemen and women who…
Defining and Giving Example to . . . “The Maine Spirit” — On the Farm — At the Fairs — On the Track! “The Maine Spirit” Initiative is a great opportunity to promote and educate Mainers about “The Maine Spirit” — the character and values of those engaged in agricultural pursuits. By employing the three C’s…
© 2024 The Lost Trotting Parks Heritage Center.
