Maumee Downs

Maumee Downs was a horse racing track located in Maumee, Ohio, near the Ohio Turnpike. Opened in 1902 as Lucas County Fairgrounds, then later renamed Fort Miami Fairgrounds, the facility gained national notoriety in 1929 when it became the first track in the country to install a lighting system and hold night sessions of harness racing.[1]

The track was renamed Maumee Downs after a major renovation in 1958.[2] However, competition from nearby tracks quickly led to its demise. Maumee held their final race in 1961 after the Ohio Racing Commission awarded their dates to other tracks, effectively prohibiting racing at Maumee.[3]

The site is now the location of the Lucas County Recreation Center.

References
  1. Plan to move Raceway Park threatens a local tradition dating to 19th century, Toledo Blade, February 13, 2011
  2. Elyria Chronicle Telegram March 28, 1958
  3. Racing Dates Bid Dropped, Steubenville Herald Star, August 31, 1961


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