Aristides wins the first Kentucky Derby, winning the $2,850 purse. The colt, owned by H.P. McGrath, covered the 1 1/2 mile track in 2:37:75; since 1875, Churchill Downs has hosted the Kentucky Derby every year since, even as the track was shortened to 1 1/4 miles.
For over 75 years, American Heritage has chronicled our nation's history like no other publication. Please support our trusted, non-partisan historical writing and the volunteers that sustain it by donating today. We rely on contributions from readers like you to survive. Donate
