The Canfield Gallery, located at the Martha Canfield Library in Arlington, Vermont will host the Vermont Historical Society's traveling exhibit "Anything for Speed: Automobile Racing in Vermont" from July 24 – Aug. 22, 2024.
"Anything for Speed: Automobile Racing in Vermont" created by the Vermont Historical Society, explores over a century of the history and evolution of racing in Vermont. When you picture Vermont, you probably imagine peace and quiet and bucolic mountain views – but the state's faster, louder side has a proud history too. Explore the people, places and cars contributing to the fabric of our history in all corners of the state. Racing is in Vermont's blood just as much as maple syrup. The first automobile races in Vermont took place in St. Johnsbury, at the Caledonia County Fair in September 1903. Since then, Vermont's racing cars have evolved over the years from the open-wheeled racers from the early 20th century, through flatheads & coupes, to today's stock cars and late model custom jobs. The exhibit is free and open to the public during regular library hours.
A "Sit & Chat" with former racer, Bob Elliott from Higley Hill in Marlboro, VT will be held on Sat. Aug. 10 from 1:00-3:00 at the library for the public to view the exhibit and talk with Bob. Bob raced at the Brattleboro Speedway and Stateline Speedway in North Bennington during the early 1950's. We also encourage community members with connections to Vermont racetracks to join us for the afternoon. Bring your stories, photos and memorabilia to share. Please call 802-375-6153 for more information.