Guests will explore the Black Heritage in Racing exhibit and attend a live performance of “Proud of My Calling,” which brings to life Black jockeys and horsemen in the sport of Thoroughbred Racing. A Historic Walking Tour of Churchill Downs and full access to the Museum are included in the ticket price.

"Proud of My Calling" Performance
This is a live performance featuring the lives of Isaac Murphy, Ansel Williamson, and Jimmy Winkfield. These were among the greatest horsemen of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries as the Kentucky Derby was becoming one of the most prominent sporting events in America. Join us for a one hour, immersive, theatre-style production as costumed actors bring to life the lives of these amazing horsemen. You will leave knowing the Kentucky Derby Heritage is also Black Heritage. This live performance begins at 3:00.

Black Heritage in Racing Exhibit
This newly-expanded exhibit is now 20 times larger and is featured in a prominent location on the first floor of the Museum. Guests will learn about the exceptional horsemen from the early days of horse racing, including Oliver Lewis, the first jockey to win the Kentucky Derby in 1875 aboard Aristides; Ansel Williamson, who trained Aristides; and Jimmy Winkfield, a Kentucky native who won back-to-back runnings aboard His Eminence in 1901 and Alan-a-Dale in 1902. Modern times are also explored, including the stories of Raymond Daniels and Greg Harbut, owners of 2020 Derby contender Necker Island.