Bartow History Museum: From the Candler Autodrome to Nascar in Georgia

Description

From the Candler Autodrome to Nascar:
Stock car racing in Georgia 1909 – 2014
 
On Thursday, March 27, 2014 at 7 p.m., Dr. Elsa Nystrom, author and KSU professor, will discuss early car racing in Georgia.  Dr. Nystrom will also discuss her new book, "Mad for Speed:  The Racing Life of Joan Newton Cuneo."  Book signing to follow.

In 1909, it looked like Atlanta might become a major center of auto racing in the United States, as the Candler's completed the second purpose-built auto race track in the country.  Unfortunately the Candler's turned to airplanes after a few years.  Dirt track racing flourished in the late teens and continued to grow as numerous small dirt and paved tracks sprang up around the city.  After WWII, ex-servicemen took to the tracks in substantial numbers, and many Georgians raced for fun and to earn money.  In the late 40's, Big Bill France had the idea of starting a league for stock cars with a south-east axis.  When the AAA, which had controlled racing since 1905, stepped out, France's Nascar stepped in, and the rest is history.
This Evening Lecture will take place at the Bartow History Museum located at 4 E. Church Street in downtown Cartersville.  Parking is available next to the building.  The lecture is free to members and included with the price of admission for not-yet members.  For more information on this and other BHM programs, call
770-382-3818, ext. 6288 or visit our website at www.bartowhistorymuseum.org.