Earliest-Known, Virginia-made Horse Racing Trophy

Acquired by Colonial Williamsburg

WYDaily Staff
April 26, 2023

“Madison” Horse Racing Trophy, marked by Johnson & Reat (1804-1815), Richmond, Virginia, ca. 1811, silver, Museum Purchase.

WILLIAMSBURG — In October 1810, a horse named Madison (likely in honor of President James Madison), won first place in a race held at the New-Market racecourse in Petersburg, Virginia.

The Madison Trophy is colossal, a work of silversmithing genius, and jaw-dropping to see. It will instantly grab and hold your attention,” said Erik Goldstein, senior curator of mechanical arts, metals and numismatics.

"Nothing like it exists in the world of early 19th-century, Virginia-made silver, and it is unique in the collections of Colonial Williamsburg for many reasons.”


https://wydaily.com/latest-news/2023/04/26/earliest-known-virginia-made-horse-racing-trophy-acquired-by-colonial-williamsburg/