showcases many never-before-published photographs from racing’s golden era. These rare and historic images date from the late 19th century to the advent of World War I.
showcases many never-before-published photographs from racing’s golden era. These rare and historic images date from the late 19th century to the advent of World War I.
One of the sport’s first great racetrack photographers, John C. Hemment, produced the core of the collection. His subjects ranged from the great African-American jockey Isaac Murphy to racing stars Colin and Sysonby to celebrities such as Lillian Russell and tycoons and gamblers of the era.
WHAT THE CRITICS ARE SAYING
“The photographs are beautiful and really capture the essence of horse racing during the time period, particularly what life was like on the backstretch.”
– Beth Sheffer, curator of collections, National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame
“The Best of the Widener Collection is a rare glimpse into a fascinating era that has long vanished. It is a perfect gift for horse racing fans, especially those interested in the history of the sport captured in never-before-published photographs.”
– Fred Glueckstein, PhelpsSports.com
“Best of the Widener Collection is an eye-catching collection of never-before-published, black-and-white photography from the golden age of horse racing. Taken in the years from the late nineteenth century to the inception of World War I, Best of the Widener Collection shows 200 of the most splendid photographs from the nearly 1,000 that were in a collection given to The Blood-Horse by Joseph E. Widener. Taken by one of the earliest and greatest names in racetrack photography, John C. Hemment, the subjects range from renowned African-American jockey Isaac Murphy to images of nigh-unbeaten racing horses such as Sysonby at work or at rest, to portraits of distinguished trainers of the day such as Frank McCabe, and more. A glorious window into the excitement-packed days of horse racing's yesteryear.”
– Midwest Book Review