Trotting on the Ice

Editor's note: The following articles were originally published between 1877 and 1911 in the newspapers listed below. Thanks to volunteer researcher George A. Thompson for finding, cataloging and transcribing this article. The language, spelling and grammar of each article reflects the time period when it was written.

https://www.meisterdrucke.ie/fine-art-prints/William-Hounsom-Byles/1055168/Races-Historic-and-Modern%2C-Trotting-Races-on-Ice-%28chromolitho%29.html

February 3, 1877 Rockland County Journal (Nyack, NY)Trotting on the Ice.
A horse trot of considerable interest took place on the bay, in front of our village, on Thursday afternoon of this week.  A large crowd of persons were in attendance, and had it been more widely known that the trot was to take place on that day, the number would have been still greater, for our village can boast of some of the liveliest horse-flesh in Rockland county. 

A trot had been agreed upon by the respective owners of "Col. Campbell" and "Judge Robertson," which was to take place on the road.  But the road not being in proper order for trotting, it was decided to use the ice upon the river, which was of a sufficient thickness to be safe and good.  Some of the Haverstraw sportsmen, who think their trotters are A No. 1, had been invited to join in the race, but they for some reason unknown failed to put in an appearance, and the race went on without them. 

At four o'clock the following horses were entered, although rather informally, for the trot: "Col. Campbell," owned by J. P. Taylor; A. Cornelison's "Judge Robertson," Ferdon horse, from Closter, D. B. Amos's "Prince," Capt. J. P. Smith's sorrel mare, and Sisson's horse, from Closter.  The horses were all in prime order for trotting, and the interest exhibited by their owners was just warm enough to urge them on to a full test of the merits of their animals.  A spirit of generous rivalry always makes a contest of any kind the more interesting. 
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After three spirited heats the race came to a close, "Col. Campbell" bearing away the laurels of the race, he winning all three heats. —  "Judge Robertson" came in second, Ferdon horse, third, "Prince," fourth, and Smith's sorrel mare and Sissou's horse about neck and neck.

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January 14, 1887 - Chatham Republican (Chatham, NY) Catskill sportsmen are now crazy for trotting on the ice.  A mile track in the form of a horse-shoe has been laid out, and next Tuesday they will begin a three days’ meeting with $1,000 in premiums.

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January 22, 1904 - Kingston (NY) Daily Freeman - TROTTING ON THE ICE
A trot on the ice for $50 a side took place on the Wallkill Wednesday afternoon between a horse owned by Sol. Thorn and one owned by John Miller.  The race was won by Thorn's horse, which was driven by Elting Harp. 
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There was a trot on the ice on Saturday between a horse owned by H. Ellis of Clintondale, and one owned by John Miller.  The latter is a much better horse than his appearance indicated. The race was won by Miller. -- New Paltz Independent.

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February 19, 1909 - Ramapo Valley Gazette (Monroe, NY) - Trotting on the Ice. 
A large crowd went to Cromwell Lake on Friday, to witness the trotting on the ice.  The weather was just what was wanted, and the condition of the ice exceedingly favorable.  Fast time was made, but just how fast the horses went could not be told, as the course was not measured.  The ice was very smooth and considerable difficulty was found in turning to make the start, and getting away. 

William Leonard with Ramona, captured the three heats in succession, thereby winning the race.  Belle Direct, owned by George Hull, and driven by Frank Rogers, was second, and Black Mahogany, owned and driven by George Fitzgerald, third.

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January 27, 1911 - Ramapo Valley Gazette (Monroe, NY)
The weather now appears favorable for the trotting on the ice of Cromwell Lake, to be held Saturday, if possible.  A purse of $100 has been offered, and several of the local sports will participate.  It is expected that Pierre Lorillard of Tuxedo, will also have a starter.

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