Picture

Waterbury [former\​ Trotting Tracks

  • About one-third of the way between present-day Huntingdon Avenue southward toward West Main Street, nearly centered between the Naugatuck River and the Naugatuck Railroad railway
    • Jefferson Trotting Park
    • Waterbury Trotting Park
  • ​On Watertown Road (present-day Watertown Avenue) where the current Municipal Stadium is today, and may also have included part or all of the W.F. Kaynor Regional Vocational Technical High School is now
    • The Driving Park
    • ​The Trotting Park

Also see the Jefferson Trotting Park page here.

​Additional Outside Sources here:
​Waterbury Thoughts: Waterbury's Trotting Parks

New York Times Articles About Waterbury Trotting
CONVINCED HIS WIFE OF HER ERROR
The New York Times (nytimes.com)
​[subscription required]

May 6th, 1896, "Races At Waterbury"
July 13th, 1898, "Trotting At Waterbury"

Archived Waterbury Trotting News

Convinced His Wife of Her Error
January 24th, 2022
​The New York Times (nytimes.com)
​[subscription required]
Daniel Tuccillo, 78, dies
August 12th, 2019
U.S. Trotting News
(ustrottingnews.com)
Trotting at Waterbury
July 13th, 1898
​The New York Times (nytimes.com)
​[subscription required]
Races at Waterbury
May 6th, 1896
​The New York Times
(nytimes.com)
​[subscription required]

History of Trotting
​in Waterbury

The first-known mention of the Waterbury Trotting Park is in 1879, in an atlas, and in 1897, as news in the Waterbury Democrat.

The first-known use of the Trotting park, although not for trotting, was done by the Ancient Order of Hibernians, which had at least two divisions at that time.

Waterbury Evening Democrat
September 14, 1898
Chronicling America
Library of Congress (loc.gov)

The Rise of Trotting
in Waterbury:
A Glimpse into the Past


Introduction

Trotting, also known as harness racing, is a popular equestrian sport that involves horses racing at a specific gait while pulling a two-wheeled cart called a sulky. This article delves into the early history of trotting in Waterbury, Connecticut, exploring the origins and development of the sport in the city.

We will take a closer look at the role of Waterbury in the growth of this fascinating and unique racing tradition.


I. The Origins of Trotting in Waterbury

The sport of trotting in Waterbury can trace its roots back to the mid-19th century. As a bustling industrial city, Waterbury provided an ideal setting for the rise of various forms of entertainment, including horse racing. The city's inhabitants sought leisure activities to enjoy during their limited free time, and trotting quickly gained popularity as an exciting and accessible sport.

Initially, informal trotting races took place on public roads, with participants and spectators gathering to watch these impromptu competitions. Over time, the enthusiasm for trotting in Waterbury grew, and the need for a dedicated racing venue became evident.


II. The Establishment of Trotting Parks

Recognizing the increasing demand for trotting, local entrepreneurs and horse enthusiasts came together to establish dedicated racing facilities, known as trotting parks. One of the first such parks in Waterbury was built in the late 1860s. This venue provided a proper track for harness racing and attracted participants and spectators from Waterbury and surrounding areas.

The success of this first trotting park led to the development of several more tracks throughout the city. These facilities hosted a variety of racing events, including matinee races and county fairs, further fueling the popularity of the sport in the region.


III. The Growth of Trotting Culture

As trotting became more established in Waterbury, the sport developed its unique culture. Racing enthusiasts began to breed and train horses specifically for trotting, leading to the emergence of the Standardbred horse breed. Standardbreds, known for their exceptional trotting ability and temperament, quickly became the preferred choice for harness racing.

In addition to breeding and training, the growth of trotting in Waterbury also led to the rise of specialized equipment and attire for both horses and drivers. Local craftsmen and businesses catered to the needs of the trotting community, providing sulkies, harnesses, and other racing essentials.


IV. Waterbury's Contributions to the Sport

Waterbury played a significant role in the development of trotting in Connecticut and beyond. The city's racing venues and events helped to popularize the sport, drawing attention from other regions and inspiring the establishment of trotting parks throughout the state.

Notable horses and drivers from Waterbury also made their mark on the national trotting scene. Some of these individuals achieved significant success in prestigious racing events across the country, further solidifying Waterbury's reputation as a hub for trotting.


V. The Legacy of Trotting in Waterbury

The early days of trotting in Waterbury, Connecticut, laid the foundation for the city's lasting connection to the sport. While the popularity of harness racing has waxed and waned over the years, its impact on the city's culture and history remains evident.

Waterbury's passion for trotting helped to shape the sport as we know it today, and the city's contributions continue to be celebrated by modern enthusiasts. The rich history of trotting in Waterbury serves as a testament to the city's enduring love for this distinctive and exciting form of horse racing.


This article was written in whole or in part by artificial intelligence; published on WaterburyLife.com on 2023.05.01.

Horsers
​in the News

Helen Ann Tuccillo, Famed Horse Trainer
1994 - 2022
​U.S. Trotting News
(ustrottingnews.com)
CONVINCED HIS WIFE OF HER ERROR
The New York Times (nytimes.com)
​[subscription required]

Waterbury
​Trotting Races

Saturday, July 4th, 1908
Featured 3 Races

Thursday, July 8th, 1897
2 Classes of Races, totaling 8 Heats

Wednesday, June 2nd, 1897
Unknown number of races

There is no additional information on this topic at this time.

Trotting Lessons

Trotting lessons were advertised in Waterbury since at least 1898.  Back in the day, horse racing, of one kind or another, was a big sport that attracted many people to the frequent events.

Racing events may have included flat racing or harness racing.  The main track measured one-half mile, and the grand stands are reputed to have been smartly designed, with a clear view of the entire race from all seats.

Night trotting was most popular, and the tracks were well-lit with ample spot lights.

Trotting Organizations
​of Note

Waterbury Driving Club, Inc.

There is no additional information on this topic at this time.

Stables of Note

There is no information on this topic at this time.

Waterbury
Trotting
​​​Leagues

There is no information on this topic at this time.