Churchill Downs began modestly. When the first Derby ran in 1875, the track consisted of a simple grandstand, a clubhouse, a porter's lodge, and a few wooden outbuildings.¹ The original grandstand held just 1,000 spectators, with tickets selling for $1.50.²
The first major expansion came in 1895 with the construction of a new grandstand designed by Joseph Dominic Baldez. The architect added the now-iconic twin spires to his design almost as an afterthought - a flourish that would become the track's enduring symbol.³ The spires rose 55 feet from the grandstand's roof, bringing the structure's total height to 130 feet.⁴
The clubhouse wing saw its first significant expansion in 1903, when Matt J. Winn convinced Churchill Downs to invest $100,000 in improvements. This renovation added the distinctive veranda that would later become one of Derby Day's most sought-after viewing spots.⁵
The track's next major transformation came in 1928 with the construction of a new steel and concrete grandstand. This $1.2 million project marked the first time Churchill Downs used modern building materials on a large scale, though careful attention was paid to preserving the architectural character of the twin spires.⁶
The introduction of pari-mutuel betting machines in 1940 required another round of renovations. Engineer William Strudwick, working with local architect Arthur Loomis, designed innovative betting pavilions that could handle the growing crowds while maintaining the track's aesthetic appeal.⁷
Churchill Downs' most ambitious expansion began in 2001 with the $121 million "Master Plan." This project added luxury suites and modernized facilities while carefully preserving historic elements. The twin spires underwent a complete renovation during this period, with architects using original 1895 drawings to ensure historical accuracy.⁸
Today's Churchill Downs can accommodate over 165,000 spectators, a far cry from the original 1,000-seat grandstand. Yet despite numerous renovations and expansions, the track has maintained its essential character - thanks largely to the careful preservation of Baldez's iconic spires.⁹
References
¹ Churchill Downs Archives. "Original Construction Documents, 1874-1875." Accession #1875-001.
² Louisville Courier-Journal. "Opening Day at the Downs." May 18, 1875.
³ Kentucky Derby Museum. "Architectural History of Churchill Downs." Permanent Exhibition Records.
⁴ Nicholson, James C. "The Kentucky Derby: How the Run for the Roses Became America's Premier Sporting Event." University Press of Kentucky, 2012, p. 89.
⁵ Winn, Matt J. "Down the Stretch: The Story of Colonel Matt J. Winn." Smith & Durrell, 1945, p. 124.
⁶ Churchill Downs Archives. "1928 Renovation Plans and Specifications." Accession #1928-045.
⁷ Louisville Times. "Modern Betting Facilities Mark New Era at Downs." April 30, 1940.
⁸ Churchill Downs Inc. "Master Plan Development Documents, 2001-2005."
⁹ Kentucky Derby Media Guide, 2023 Edition. Churchill Downs, p. 23.
