The Graw

The Havre de Grace Racetrack, better known as “The Graw”, opened to a crowd of over 5,000 spectators on August 24, 1912. It was one of four one-mile thoroughbred racetracks in Maryland, all of which allowed pari-mutual betting which was illegal in states to the north. Its location midway on the East Coast, made it a popular destination for race aficionados from New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. Some of the industry's biggest stars raced at the Graw, including Citation, Man O’ War, and Sea Biscuit. Increased competition from newer, more modern tracks, disruptions during wartime, and the sale to owners who sought to consolidate racing at their own facilities, led to its closure in 1950.