Hobby Horse Hall in Nassau, was opened in 1792. The race track was named Hobby Horse Hall, after a popular children’s toy at the time.
In February 1958 a fire destroyed most of the facilties and it was rebuilt and upgraded, reopening in 1960. This included a new grandstand and parade ring, designed by architect Jackson Burnside.The track also installed state-of-the-art starting gates and photo finish cameras, making it one of the most modern race tracks in the region. Other features included a dining terrace that served charcoal grilled lobster, turtle pie, and steaks, as well as a casino that offered roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and slot machines.
After The Bahamas gained independence from Britain in 1973, the race track went into decline.The new government imposed higher taxes and stricter regulations on the track, which reduced its profitability and attractiveness to investors. Other forms of entertainment and gambling emerged, such as casinos on Paradise Island and Cable Beach.
The final blow came in 1977, when a scandal erupted over the mistreatment of horses at the track. The public outcry over this cruelty led to the closure of Hobby Horse Hall by the government.
Postcards
1962 – Lofthouse Agency Ltd (P44400 Series – Type E)
References
- Gaming Board Bahamas
- The Life And Death Of Hobby Horse Hall Race Track: Documentary On Horse Racing In The Bahamas 200 Years