"Rysdyk"

This is an exhibition of a collection of rare, original Currier & Ives lithographs that features 33 lithographs on loan to the Carnegie Center from the Harness Racing Museum and Hall of Fame in Goshen, New York, which has the world’s largest collection of Currier & Ives trotting prints. Prior to the advent and development of photography, Nathaniel Currier and James Ives were the storytellers of America throughout much of the 19th Century.

Years before baseball, harness racing was America’s original national pastime. These prints depict great trotting horses, bucolic mid-19th Century scenes and comedic adventures conveying a picturesque view of Americana prior to the advent and development of photography.

Harness racing officially began in 1806 when farmers would challenge each other to a "brush" on the road – a race for a short distance at top speed. After the race, these same horses would also then pull a plow or take the family to church on Sunday morning. Originally called "trotting", the sport eventually moved from country roads and streets onto specially constructed harness tracks with elaborate grandstands and to fairgrounds throughout our nation.

From its grassroots beginnings, the sport has grown to a billion dollar industry enjoyed by millions of fans throughout the world. There are over 500 harness tracks in the U.S. and Canada. Indiana has Hoosier Park in Anderson and Indiana Downs in

"Speeding on the Avenue"

Shelbyville, and Kentucky has the Red Mile in Lexington. Even closer to home, the Harrison County Fair in Corydon has hosted harness racing every year since 1860, and will do so again August 5-6.

The exhibition will be enhanced by the addition of artifacts such as an antique high wheel jog cart, drivers colors, and other items relating to harness racing past and present. Hands-on activities and special programs are also offered.

"A Spill in the Snow"

For additional information on the opening of "The Story of Harness Racing by Currier & Ives" or any other upcoming events, please contact the Center at 944-7336 or info@carnegiecenter.org. The Carnegie Center for Art & History is located at 201 E. Spring Street, New Albany and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00-5:30. There is never a charge for admission.