Walk in Keeneland The November 28 library is like taking a step back in time.
While this year’s Breeders’ Cup may be left behind, its memories can still be viewed in the “Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland” exhibit set up during the September Autumn Sale of the Breeders’ Cup. Keeneland and will be taken down in a few weeks.
The exhibition features memorabilia and photographs, as well as two walls displaying artifacts such as champions Zenyatta ropes and bridles as well as silk that Victor Espinoza wore during the tutorial American Pharoah to Triple Crown glory in 2015.
Research services librarian Kelly Coffman, who curated the exhibits, said the idea was passed on from Keeneland executives and the library accepted. Usually, the team comes up with ideas and puts on exhibitions internally.
“Everything that was taken for the pictures was either from the Keeneland archives or the Breeders’ Cup archives,” says Coffman. “It’s (the years) 2021 and 2015… Those are the most fan-favorite horses everyone knows. That’s been done in-house, known for its collaborations with people. “
Part of the Breeders’ Cup exhibition at the Keeneland Library
On either side of the entrance are two large glass cabinets for specialized storage.
“Things on display, one is an American Pharoah, who won the grand slam here for the Thoroughbred race. His lanyard was a gift to the library from Ashford/Coolmore. One of the patrons. Our team has partnered with that,” she said.
Items in the American Pharoah display case at the Keeneland Library
The other side is just opposite and filled with Zenyatta memorabilia.
“Of course, we have to have her because she’s the first to beat the boys. Her stuff is on display, some are from the Breeders’ Cup office… others are from Lane’s End. and coach John Shirreffs. They’re lending it to us. Her reins, laces and silk.”
Items in the Zenyatta display case at Keeneland Library
Coffman says that typically the library forms its own exhibits using its own internal archive as well as the Keeneland archive. This exhibition marks the second time they have sought outside help.
“This is the second time in library history that we’ve partnered with other organizations and individuals to put on an exhibition. The first time was last year for the Queen Elizabeth exhibit.”
The library opened 83 years ago, where it was housed in the Clubhouse until the collection became too large for the space. In 2002, the current building was built.
“Most of our collection is from gifts or donations,” says Coffman. “The library’s nuclear collection that began in 1939 when the library was founded was about 2,000 books, and they were given to us by Arnold Hanger, who was on Keeneland’s board and the library developed from that.
“Our earliest book is from 1599. But periodicals (British racing charts) mainly date back to the 1770s. (archive) British will start first because ( racing) starts there.”
Statue in the Keeneland Library
During those years, exhibitions were not necessarily a normal tradition but have recently become more frequent.
“This was short-lived… The real big moment when people come to see the show is during the Breeders’ Cup; that’s when it’s famous,” Coffman said. “This is probably the shortest show we’ve ever done, about three to four months. Normally, exhibitions last six to eight months.”
Coffman mentioned that during Breeders’ Cup week, she could barely sit in her office due to the constant flow of visitors. During the winter months, she says she can only see three people in a day.
“It’s been a real pleasure doing this… I’ve never seen the library get so many people coming in like that Breeders’ Cup week. Just people from all over the world, they come to town early and on the field. whether for morning practice and stay.
One of the reasons Coffman says they’re able to hold more elaborate exhibitions is because of the relationships the group maintains both internationally and domestically. She says they have a close relationship with the National Museum of Racing and the Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, NY and enjoy collaborating on special projects.
As for what’s next, Coffman says that after the current exhibit is taken down, it will take several months until it has a replacement. Unable to provide many details as the new exhibit is still in the planning stages, she thinks it could be one of their biggest.
“It won’t go up until next year, the period from February to March. It’s going to go up for a while, maybe about eight months,” she said.
