Fairgrounds in Indianapolis in Marion County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Indiana State Fairgrounds Mile
Photographed by Rev. Ronald Irick, June 15, 2021
1. Indiana State Fairgrounds Mile Marker
The Indiana State Fairgrounds Mile is often lauded for the significant part it has played in Indiana racing history, as well as the nation’s. One of America’s earliest auto racing sites, it gained world renown on June 29th, 1903 when Barney Oldfield became the first driver to run a stunning 60mph on a closed course. Since that epic day racing’s most acclaimed drivers have raced here, including A.J. Foyt, Mario Andretti, Al Unser Sr. Roger Ward, Bob Swelkert, and Pat O’Connor.
The events held here were as storied as the stars who raced in them. The State Fair Century Stock Car Race. The Gold and Glory Sweepstakes, a premier race for African American drivers excluded from other competition in the 1920’s. The Hullman Hundered. And one of racings renowned events, the Hoosier Hundred. At one time second only to the Indianapolis 500 in prestige and purse, the Hoosier Hundred remains today a part of the “Hoosier Mile’s” compelling motorsports legacy.
Erected by Indiana Racing Memorial Association.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Entertainment •
this page online
Location. 39° 49.74′ N, 86° 7.85′ W. Marker is in Indianapolis, Indiana, in Marion County. It is in Fairgrounds. It can be reached from East Fall Creek Parkway North Drive 0.2 miles north of 38th Street, on the left when traveling north. The marker stands in the Indiana State Fairgrounds, on the north side of the track, inside Gate #6. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1202 38th St, Indianapolis IN 46205, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Central Indiana. It is also in the American Midwest and in the Corn Belt. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture and also the Northwest Territory.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 2 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: Marshall "Major" Taylor (approx. half a mile away); Oliver Johnson House
Photographed by Rev. Ronald Irick, June 15, 2021
2. Indiana State Fairgrounds Mile Marker
Photographed by Rev. Ronald Irick, June 15, 2021
3. Indiana State Fairgrounds Mile Marker
Photographed by Rev. Ronald Irick, June 15, 2021
4. Indiana State Fairgrounds Mile Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on February 4, 2023. It was originally submitted on June 21, 2021, by Rev. Ronald Irick of West Liberty, Ohio. This page has been viewed 491 times since then and 29 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on June 21, 2021, by Rev. Ronald Irick of West Liberty, Ohio. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
