Davenport Speedway Late 1800’s Postcard

This is a photo postcard that appeared on an auction site featuring an early auto race at the old Davenport Mile Track, which began as a horse racing track in the late 1800s. It’s identified on the back with the words “Times copy” with instructions for the photo size and “Barney Oldfield.”

The seller said the card was with another one dated 1914. Note the old grandstand, which was replaced by the current grandstand when the facility became the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds in the 1920s. Also note the fancy judges’ stand on the inside of the track and all of the spectators standing dangerously close to the speedway.

~ Phil Roberts.