The South Carolina Jockey Club (1857) — Facsimile Edition from Kessinger Publishing

Discover a pivotal chapter in American horse racing

The South Carolina Jockey Club (1857) by John Beaufain Irving is presented here in a faithful facsimile edition from Kessinger Publishing. This edition brings a rare 19th-century voice into clear focus, inviting readers to explore the formation and development of one of the era's most influential racing clubs.

The book opens with a concise history of early South Carolina racing and the club's founding in 1827. It then follows the club's organization, including rules and regulations, and chronicles the races that drew crowds, bettors, and spectators to the track.

What you’ll find inside

• A detailed account of the club’s structure, governance, and event calendar
• Profiles of notable horses and jockeys who competed under its banner
• Insights into the social and cultural role of racing in South Carolina during the era

Edition highlights and reader benefits

• A rare, scarce antiquarian title preserved as a high-quality facsimile
• Faithful reproduction, including original typography and layout for authentic study
• Helpful context for researchers and enthusiasts of 19th-century American sport and society
• Compact, readable format suitable for personal libraries or reference collections

Note: The facsimile may include imperfections such as library marks or marginal notes, reflecting its history as a preserved artifact. This edition is intended to protect, preserve, and promote a significant part of the world’s literature with careful care for future readers.

Historically, the book offers a window into antebellum Southern society, including the rituals, attire, and community gatherings surrounding race days. While not a modern racing manual, it contextualizes racing as a social event that shaped local identity and networks among planters, merchants, and enthusiasts. The edition is a valuable resource for students, collectors, and readers who value archival materials that illuminate cultural history through sport.