JOURNAL ARTICLE

Betting on Horses: Racing as an Economic Development Tool in Frontier West Texas, 1886–1896 by Preston Lewis (review).

  • Published In: Southwestern Historical Quarterly, 2025, v. 128, n. 4. P. 461 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: BAILEY, ANNE J. 3 of 3

Abstract

The article examines how horse racing served as an economic development tool in San Angelo, Texas, during the period from 1886 to 1896. Author Preston Lewis focuses on the impact of the racing industry on the growth of San Angelo, particularly following the arrival of the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railroads in 1888. The study highlights key figures such as J. G. "Pat" Murphy and John Richard Nasworthy, who contributed to the local racing scene, and discusses the establishment of the San Angelo Jockey Club and the Concho Valley Fair Association. The article also addresses the challenges faced by the racing industry, including gambling-related issues and eventual legislative prohibitions on betting, which led to the decline of organized racing in the area. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Southwestern Historical Quarterly. 2025/04, Vol. 128, Issue 4, p461
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0038-478X
  • DOI:10.1353/swh.2025.a964772
  • Accession Number:186646728
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