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AN EXPOSE
OF THE
MEASURES WHICH CAUSED
A
SUSPENSION OP THE RACES
ON THE
UNION COURSE,
«
IJY OCTOBEB, 1830;
AND THE
PROCEEDINGS SINCE OCTOBER 1828,
OS' THE
ASSOCIATION- & MANAGER
In their respective relations.
By the late Manager. Ys
NEW-YORK:
1831,CONTENTS,
Letter of 29 July, 1829, from the Manager to J. A. King, Esq«
President of the Association, inclosing a Remonstrance and a
narrative of all proceedings from October, 1828, to the 20th
of July, 1829, $riz:—
Proposals made in 1828, by C. R. Colden, to certain members
of the Association, that the Club form a Stock of $10,000 in
shares, purchase the Race Ground, inclose it, erect a new
stand, make the necessary additions and improvements.—
This proposal not acceeded to.
Proposition made by C. R. Colden, and laid before the associ-
ation at a special meeting held in Oct. 1828, to take from
them a sub-lease, of the Race Ground, to inclose and im-
prove the Ground at his own expense, provided they resign
to him the management.
Resolution passed October 1828, accepting the Proposition that
the association assign to C. R. C. all their Right, Title, and
Interest.
Purchase made by C. R. C. of the Fee of the ground, inclosing
the same, erecting a new stand, and making other expensive
improvements.
May 1829, Spring Races, Management and direction assumed
byC. R.C.
1st. Meeting—Purses and expenses paid wholly by the Manager.
2nd. Meeting—Manager pays his quota of the purses and all
the expenses, association fall short of the payment of their
proportion of the purses, Manager guarantees the payment
of the deficiency, and subsequently advances it for account
of the association—the Manager is censured.
Refusal of the association 20th. of July 1829, to assign their
interest, in pursuance of the Resolution passed Oct. 1828.
October 18J^—Fall Racesy,
1st. Meeting—Purses of $<600 and $250 ; together with all ex-
penses paid by the Manager, second attempt of the Manager
to obtain an assignment—the Manager withholds (for a time)
the payment of the Purse of $400.
2nd. Meeting not held—-Association do not furnish their quota
of the Purse Money.
May 1830—Spring Races—The association form a design to
wrest from the Proprietor possession of the Race Ground.
Letter from the Proprietor to the President indicative of his
determination to retain possession. Adjustment between the
Association and the Proprietor, on the score of possession—
Letter of May 10th 1830, from C. R. C. to the President, ex-
pressive of the injustice exercised toward him. Inclosing
$400, purse money thus far withheld with reason for having
withheld it.
1st. Meeting—Purses and all expenses wholly paid by the
Manager.IV
2nd Meeting—Association refused to make good $625, as their
quota of the usual sum for Purses—Determine to pay only
400 dollars. The Manager adds 400 dollars—The association
resolved not to give the usual Purse for the 4 mile heats.
Letter of C. R» C. May 13th 1830 addressed to the President,
remonstrating and protesting as a member of the Club, and
one of the board of Managers against this measure. Recep-
tion, and retention by the Treasurer of sundry donations
made to the Course, being perquisites of the Manager.
October 1830—Fall Races—Letter addressedJC. R. C. as Ma-
* £ nager to Mr. W. L. and by him submitted™ other members
expressive of the wish of the Manager, to have a reconcilia-
tion and adjustment of all differences. Declamation of cer-
tain members of the association, and their hostility, and op-
position. Silver cups value 100 dollars each, with 150 dol-
lars added to each Run for October 12th and 13th, voluntari-
ly and gratuitously given by the Manager.
First Meeting, Oct. 19th. First day of tne regular Meeting.
Purse 500 dollars.—The association withhold their fall sub-
scription.—No collection made or subscriptions received by
Treasurer—the Treasurer retains what funds he has in band.
—The Manager denied assistance by the Association, discon-
tinues the Races.—Union Course abandoned October 19th.
Statement of all monies received by the Manager from the As-
sociation or their Treasurer.—The amount which has been
paid in purses during the direction of the Manager, in 1829
and 1830.—The amount which would have been paid, had
the Association furnished their quota, and the Manager
thereby enabled to carry the proposed plan into effect.—The
amount advanced, and paid by the Manager in Purses alone>,
beyond what he was bound to do by compact.—Total dis- ,
bursments of the Manager, including expenses of attendants,
and interest of capital.
4^ SO* © © © ® ® © Cs
. , •
To the Patrons of the New-York Turf.
Gentlemen,
The compact under which, in 1828,1 consented to take
upon myself the improvement of the Union Race Course,
the future ordering and direction of its arrangements, and she
reciprocal engagement entered into between the 46 New-York
Association for the Improvement of the Breed of Horses/5
and myself, being understood only by a small portion of their
own body, and by none, or at least very few of the support-
ers of the Turf not members of this Club; it is therefore
impossible for such to judge of the measures which led to a
suspension of the races in Oct last, or say with whom the
fault rests. With a view to enabling you to form a correct
opinion, £ have drawn up, and lay before you, the annexed
statement, setting forth the conditions upon which I assumed
the management; an account of all the money received by
the manager from the treasurer of the association ; the
amount disbursed by the manager; the original proposition
made by him to undertake the management, &c.; the reso-
lution of the Club, passed October, 1828, in consequence
thereof, to assign to him all their interest in the premises ;
his subsequent remonstrance, occasioned by their refusal;
together with such other matter and letters as have a bearing
on the case.
Although I sincerely deplore the necessity which has led
to this production, the odium which certain gentlemen have
cruelly and unjustly endeavoured to fix upon me by oral de-
clamation, nay, even called to their aid the public prints,
leaves me no alternative; the evil, if any, that may grow out
of this exposure, must rest upon those who have thus called
it forth.
In return for the services I have rendered, and the sacrifice
I have made, that you will give me patient hearing is all I
require, and if by you judged culpable, I ask no lenity.
I have the honour to remain, Gentlemen,
Your most ob’t and very humble serv’t,
 Cadwallader R. Colden.
Union	Long Is. Feb. 24, 1831.
A ~6
AN EXPOSE.
The first document I present is my remonstrance, deli-
vered to Mr. J. A. King, the President of the Association, in
July, 1829, containing a history of every thing that had
occurred from the time I first made ajproposition to assume
the management of the Union JHBiK&fttp to a special meeting
of the Club, held on the 20th July, 1^829, which was inclosed
in the following letter.
New-York, July, 29th, 1829.
Dear Sir.
I have taken the liberty to inclose you, not only a remon-
strance against the late resolutions of the Jockey Club, as
they effect my interest, but a narrative of all that has taken
place, since I first made a proposition to take the manage-
ment of the Course, up to our last meeting, of the 20th inst.
inclusive. If you will take the trouble to give it a patient
reading, you will confer a favour; and you are at liberty to
lay it before the Club, at their next meeting, should you think
proper, or to subject it to the perusal of any of their members.
I am fully aware that many members are not aware of what
has passed, or what took place at the meeting of October,
1828, when the resolution was entered into, to assign the
leases and interest of the Club to me; nor do they know the
extent or nature of my agreement or proposition. To such,
what I have now written would give the necessary informa-
tion.
After what has recently taken place, I am free to acknow-
ledge to you, I am at a loss how to proceed, either as it
respects the future management of the Course, or attainment
of my right; the latter it would appear can only be had by an
appeal to a Court of Equity; the former, requires delibera-
tion, and I shall at all times be happy to confer with you.
Believe me, with friendship and esteem,
Yours, very truly.
Cadwallader R. Colden.
John A. King, Esqr.
New-York, July 29th, 1829.
To John A. King, Esq. President of the New-York Associa-
tion for the improvement of the breed of Horses.
Dear Sir,
It it not my intention again to ask you to convene the
association on business touching my personal interest. The
uncourteous manner, in which I was treated, during the late
meetings of the 9th and 20th inst., not only for^J|,rbut pre-AN EXPOSE*
7
elude my ever more attending a similar meeting of ilie asso-
ciation. I am therefore compelled, through you, as Presi-
dent of the Club, to re^pel a ch arge brought against me by one
of the members in your hearing, and that of Messrs. Nicoll
and Winans, on our return from the Club Room on the even-
ing of Monday, the 20th inst., viz :
That I had not complied with my engagement to the Club,
inasmuch as “ That I had not paid the Purses of the last
day of the last Spring Meeting.”
This charge as it respects a breach of my engagement or a
xoant of good faith on my part, (as I will presently shew), is
not true ; and the odium, if any, arising therefrom ought not
to be heaped upon my shoulders ; so far from not coming up
to my contract, I have in fact done more than the compact
contains ; and in addition to the wrongs I had previously sus-
tained from the association, and individual members in con-
nection therewith, this last unfounded accusation is a poor
return for my having in fact paid more than the association
had a right to expect, and constitutes a farther injury to which
I cannot submit in silence; but since this is the only opportu-
nity I shall take of troubling you with my grievances, permit
me for the first and last time, to lay before you, in your official
capacity, a narrative of my relation with the club, from its
origin up to the present time.
After our October Races, of 1828, I became convinced
that the association was sinking; the Course was ill attended |
the shew of horses was poor ; the sport was declining ; the
Funds were insufficient $ irregularity had obtained a place in
our proceedings 5 the police of the Course was bad ; in
short, pecuniary aid, and energetic measures were required
to keep the establishment up ; and the former could not be
counted upon from the precarious and uncertain nature of
maugre subscriptions. Under this impression, in the winter
of 1827 and 1828, I wrote to Mr. Alex’r. Hosack, Major
"William Jones, and I believe to Mr. Walter Livingston, freely
expressing my sentiments, offering my aid, and at the same
time, a plan of an enclosed course, with a proposal that we
create a Stock to the amount of $10,000, in shares of $1,000
or $500 each. These gentlemen approved of the design and
felt sensible, that in order to give a show to the amusement,
something was required, yet were unprepared to act upon my
project, or invest capital to the extent proposed. We again
came together at the Spring races of 1828, when the subject
was discussed, and finding that none of the members were
disposed to join with me in the measure, l said, that if the
Club would resign their interest, and transfer the manage-
ment solely to me, that I would enter upon the undertaking8
AN EXPOSE*
single handed, provided, I could prevail upon the proprietors
of the land to extend the term of the leases, and upon Samuel
Eldert to new modell the one given whim, so as to permit
me to have undisturbed possession ofuhe ground during the
ivhole year.
It so happened that before any different terms could be
obtained from Eldeot, that he died. Not daunted by this
event, I on or about the 9th of June, 1828, requested the
President to call a special meeting for the purpose of taking
into consideration my proposal, which was in substance to the
following effect. “ My design is to have two sets of races,
or distinct meetings in May and the like in October, with an
interval of two weeks. I will take from the Association a sub-
lease, of the premises, provided I can have undisturbed pos-
session of the ground the whole year, I will pay $1250 on the
1st of May, and the like sum on the 1st of October annually,
to be divided into Purses of 600, 400, and 250 dollars, to be
run for three successive days, heats 4,3, and 2 miles. These
to constitute purses for the first Spring and Fall meeting,
I will use my exertions to increase the number of Subscribers,
and whatever their Subscriptions amount to, not exceeding
$1500. I will add thereto a corresponding sum, to be divi-
ded into six appropriate purses, three of which shall be run
for the latter part of May and October, to constitute the
Purses for the 2d Spring and 2d Fall Meetings: The sub-
scription of members not to be less than $12 each and any
sum subscribed beyond $1500 to be at my disposal ; I will
pay the rent of the ground, provided it does not exceed $300
or thereabout. Thus far I shall consider myself bound to
make advances and no further.” I will keep a match-book,
day-book, book of bettings, racing calendar, &c., after Jthe
mode at present practised at New-Market.
“ The meeting was called, and my proposal in writing laid
before them, but a sufficient number of members to form a
quorum did not attend, consequently no resolve was had.
While we were considering, postponing, and hesitating, Mr.
John C. Stevens, with his usual energy, went to Pough-
keepsie, and laid out the new Course upon my plan, and had
it in operation before us; such was the disrepute into which
the Union Course had sunk, that the very News Papers
hooted it, and observed, u in fact, the Union Races were run
down by the new establishment:” “ The Union Race Course
has been completely deserted by respectable females,'and
their attendants.”
I let the matter rest until the Club assembled at the regu-
lar races in October following, when on the last day of those
races a special Meeting was convened at the Club House, byAN EXPOSE.
9
previous notice given in the News Papert. Present. Mr.
Walter Livingston, Chairman; Asher P. Hamlin, George
Sharp, Samuel Ringold, Theron Rudd, Anthony Winnans,
Secretary, pro. temCadwallader R. Colden, Charles H.
Hall, Alexander Hosack, Mr. Charles L. Livingston, the
Secretary of the Association did not attend, and the original
proposition being in his possession was not produced; I was
requested by the Chairman to state it, which I did in sub-
stance fully; referring at the same time to the proposal In
writing then held by the Secretary. This being done, and the
subject discussed and animadverted upon, Dr. Alexander
Hosack moved that the proposal be accepted, and that the
association transfer to Mr. Colden all their right, title, and in-
terest, in and to the Coarse, &c. This motion was se-
conded by Mr. Sharp, and the question was then put by
the Chairman, and carried in the affirmative by an unanimous
. OlC. I then signified to the meeting, that I would enter upon
the undertaking, provided 1 could negotiate with the proprie-
tors of the land, or lessors, in such way as would give me the
undisturbed possession of the premises during the whole year,
and in such way as I considered would render me safe, and
warranted in expending the money requisite to inclose the
ground, and erect the new buildings contemplated, and it was
understood and settled, that I was to be allowed until the first
day of April following to negotiate, and fix my determination.
In February following I contracted with the heirs of Samuel
Eldert, deceased, for the purchase of that portion of the
Course which contains the principle part, and upon which all
the buildings are situate, and in May last obtained a Deed in
fee for 54 acres, for the consideration of $2,708. The lease
for the other smaller part, held under Cozine, granted, as I
have before said, undisturbed possession the whole year;
and as by the resolution of the Club I was entitled to a trans-
fer of that lease, I considered that possession mine, and my
desired object thus fully accomplished.
The next step was to prepare for my contemplated im-
provements ; and in March and April, I purchased, end at a
great expense brought on the ground, materials sufficient to
compose the outside fence, and new extensive stands or
stages for the accommodation of spectators, the repair of the
Club House, and making a large addition thereto. I gave
notice of my intention to enter upon the undertaking ;
took possession, went to work in earnest, and with the appro-
bation and sanction of the President and board of Managers
at a regular meeting, advertised in my own name the ensuing
Spring Races, as the proprietor of the Course, or person to
whom the Association had transferred their interest in the
B10
AN EXPOSE,
leases. I say transferred their interest in the leases, for such
was the intent and understanding, and in that language was
the heading of this advertisement drawn by the President,
and this transfer I was equally entitled to by the resolution of
October, 1828, whether I purchased or not, or had the leases
extended or new modelled. The resolution was clogged with
none of those conditions ; that was my own affair; a pre-
cautionary matter which did not effect the Interest of the
Club, adopted by myself, to guard against the loss of my im-
provements at the termination of those leases. It is therefore
truly ridiculous in the Club, or any member thereof, to hold
up my pretended want of title by purchase, as a ground for
not assigning the leases ; and when the expensive improve-
ments I have been induced to make, are taken into considera-
tion, the transaction assumes the character of a treacherous
entrapment.
I have erected an outside Fence which has cost nearly if
not quite $3000 ; a Picket, extending full 70 rods, compos-
ed of more than, 2000 cedar posts, with draw gates at each
extremity, inclosing the starting place, and rubbing down
ground, which cost upwards of $500 ; have already built a
stage for Spectators, the coast of which is $3000 ; repaired
the club house to the extent of $100 ; opend out and im-
proved the Track, and in order to give more width, had in-
cluded land not comprised in the existing leases, put a
rail round the inner edge of the whole Track, in order to pre-
vent saddle horses and carriages, riding or driving thereon,
the cost of which alone was $150, yet these improvements,
though expensive, were by no means all that I contemplated,
had my zeal met with a corresponding spirit.
Prudence would ask what security 1 had for laying out so
much money upon ground, the lease of which was as yet held
by others for the unexpired term of seven years ? My reply
is, the plighted faith gf the Jockey Club, an institution
grounded upon the laws of Honor, that they would transfer to
me the same, together with all theiri nterest whenever called
upon. What were my expectations on the score of renume-
ration ? A precarious and uncertain return, the hope of re-
viving the amusement; the applause and the countenance of
the true members and supporters of the turf, in exchange for
certain expenditure, toil, and anxiety. How I have been re-
quited will be shewn in the sequel.
The 12th of May at length arrived, the first Spring meeting
commenced ; all appeared hilarity and satisfaction. The
members tendered their annual subscriptions, and here the
first innovation of my compact took place, my stipulation was
that the subscription of members should not be less than 12AN EXPOSE.
11
dollars each, the Treasurer began to receive 10 dollars. I
remonstrated: he set my objections at defiance, and conti-
nued to receive the lesser sum ; it was not my place to offi-
ciate as Treasurer, or my good fortune to correct this proce-
dure ; it was only left me to state the consequences, although
the Treasurer was equally aware that the difference would
come ultimately out of my pocket, if I was to be looked to
for the full amount of the Parses to be given at the 2d
meeting.
The next unpleasant occurrence took place, while in the
exercise of my particular duty, as keeper of the book of
entries ; it had been published that “ Horses must shew and
enter at the Club House, and undergo an examination as to
age, between the hours of 4 and 5, P. M. of the day previous
to that on which they are intended to run.,, “ Horses having
undergone an examination and duly registered, will not be re-
quired to shew a second time.” I was in the act of insisting
upon a young horse being shewn and examined, as for the first
time, when, as 1 then thought, and still think, my regulations
were very officiously and improperly interfered with, and in
vociferous language, and manner, to which I was not accus-
tomed, such as “ It is all damned stuff.” The races went
on, the three purses, amounting to 1250 dollars, were paid
from my own private funds, and every thing otherwise went
off pleasantly, and the meeting broke up on the afternoon of
the 14th.
It was now given out that a match would be run on the
19th,between Mr.--------------— and Mr.----------------—
I entered the same on the match book, (as it was my duty to
do,) and gave puplie notice by sending a transcript to the
press, in which was set forth names of horses, parties, &c.
It was no sooner published, than Mr. —--------------ex-
pressed his disapprobation and resentment in very unqualified
terms, to all he met or conversed with; so much so, that
every person I fell in with, jeeringly warned me of the chas-
tisement I was to receive, and the self-fancied injured gen-
tlemen, rode the distance of eight miles, solely to call me to
account, and administer the threatened correction. I should
not have touched upon this subject, but as much has been
circulated to my disadvantage, I am constrained to give
nearly verbatine what passed.
Mr. —----What do you mean by publishing my name in
the Jlews Papers? what authorised you to use my name ?
Mr. C.------I caused the publication as keeper of the
match book; it is my place to enter all matches on that
book; to do so, and to keep that book correctly is part of my
engagement with the Club.AN EXPOSE
12
Mr. —— You had no pusiness or right sir, to make thus
free with my name. This match is a private match, between
myself and Mr.---------; the Club has nothing to do with it.
Mr. C.-------All matches run upon a public Course, are so
far public matches ; and if run upon this Course are required
to be entered by the Clerk of the Course, or keeper of the
books, on the match book, they therefore cannot be private,
the match book is a public record, open to inspection.
Mr.------I don’t care Sir, you had no business to send my
name to the printer ; I say, Sir, it was a piece of presump-
tion ; you had no right to do it.
Mr. C. —— I did do it, Sir, it is true, and shall do it
again, whenever a similar occasion occurs.
Mr.------ No Sir, you won’t, you shan’t, you have no
right; it was a damned piece of impertinence.
(The residue of this conversation it is unnecessary here to
state, although set forth in the original remonstrance.)
Mr.------ought to have reflected that the statute authori-
sing horse racing in jQueens County, directs under pain of a
fine of 100 dollars, that the Sheriff of the County, have notice
of all races to be run ; that it was my duty to notify him, his
duty to attend, with a sufficient number of Deputies, Consta-
bles, ^c*, to keep order; that he is allowed by the Law 5
dollars per day ; that the Constables must also have a just
compensation ; that to keep order, and regularity, and render
the Course respectable, the door keepers, gate keepers, &c,
must be in attendance, in all to the number of from 30 to 40
men. In short, that the expenses of the Course amount to
about 100 dollars per day. How was this expense to be met,
unless public notice was given, such as might cause the atten-
dance of the public? Taking those considerations into view,
as well as the entry on the match hook, what am I to under-
stand by private matches ; certainly not secrecy. It would
have been no more than common courtesy on the part of that
gentleman, to have conferred with me before ordering his
match for the 19th. Nevertheless, I opened the Course,
ordered the necessary attendants for the occasion, and as was
anticipated, lost money—yet on that account I did not com-
plain.
Next came a colt sweepstate, a sorry thing, as it was pre-
viously known it would be. These gentlemen, too, without
any previous conference had with me, must be indulged with
their exclusive days. The course was accordingly again
opened for them on the 25th, and as was foreseen, money
again sunk; yet willing to give satisfaction, and fully to gra-
tify the wishes of all, I yielded my interest to their desire
without a murmur.AN EXPOSE.
18
At length came the 26th, and with it the 2d Spring meet”
ing, and now arose a warm debate between the Treasurer
and some members, who supported his position, in opposi-
tion to a few others and myself, as to whether the debt in-
curred by the Club previous to my entering upon the under-
taking, should be discharged out of the monies received the
present month, (and after I had assumed the management,)
as the subscription of members for the present or ensuing
year; or whether the whole subscription money should be
handed over to me, or at least so much of it, as would make
up the half or quoto of the Club, which they ought of right to
pay towards the purses now to be run for, at this 2d meeting,
for you will observe that by the tenor of my compact, I was
to give the one half of the amount of these 2d Purses, the other
half to be made up by the subscription of the members. Thus
it was obvious that if the back debt was paid out of the recent
subscriptions, and as the advertised purses amounted to 1250
dollars, there was not left a residuary of 625 dollars, there
would be a deficit of purse money on the part of the Club,
which would have to be made good, either from my private
funds or an extra subscription ; and if my private funds were
to be called upon, then, whatever part of the subscription
money was retained, would be, in fact, so much taken out of
my private pocket ; yet the Treasurer well knew, from the
amount he had received, that I should at all events be left in
the lurch ; and if he carried his point, sorely so ; but as I
had been induced to affix my name to the advertisement,
seemed not to care. Finding that the Treasurer was likely
to carry his point, I avowed it as my positive intention, in the
event of any part of the subscription being withheld, to come
forward on the Race Ground, state the circumstances, and
give both the Public, and owners of horses to understand,
that I would not hold myself answerable to pay any part of
the purses as advertised. Whether this had the desired ef-
fect, I leave others to judge; be that as it may, an extra sub-
scription was set on foot to pay off the back debt, and the
Treasurer handed over to me the subscription money. But
behold, in place of $625, in was only 490, being for 49 sub*
scribers at $10 each : had he taken in conformity with my
compact, 12 dollars from each, it would have amounted to
588 dollars, leaving a deficiency on the part of the members
towards their share of the Purse money of only 47 dollars,
whereas as it now stood, their delinquency was 135 dollars.
Having received only 490 dollars, I was only bouud to add a
corresponding sum, making together only 980 dollars. I how-
ever, promptly pnt up 625 dollars as my full half of the ag-
gregate of Purses advertised. The Purses of 600 and 40014
AN EXPOSE.
dollars were paid to Mr. McLean and to Mr. Snedicher as
soon as won : the last days purse of 250 dollars fell to the
lot of Mr. Bush, and when called for, there only remained in
my hands 115 dollars, this I paid over, and rather than make
any further call upon the Club at that time, promised to see
the ballance paid; he felt perfectly satisfied, and drew on me
in favor of Mr. Bathgate, for the residue 135 dollars,
which draft I accepted; and Mr. Bush, whom I afterwards
saw, directed me to consult my own convenience, as to the
time of payment. The acceptance I paid, but have never
been reimbursed. This, sir, is a correct statement, and I am
nevertheless censured and slandered, having done not only
all that I could be called upon to perform, but paid, or vol-
untarily assumed the payment of 270 dollars, for which I
was not bound by my agreement or proposition; 135 dol-
lars of which sum, was injustice the debt of the very party
who on this aceount defame me.
I hope, sir, this explanation will prove satisfactory, and
that on this head, justice may be done me.
The spring races having passed over, and the hurry and
tumult attendiug the same subsided, and as 1 was proceeding
with my buildings, I thought it prudent to ask for the transfer
and assignment, entitled to by the resolution passed in Octo-
ber, 1828. I had been repeatedly told by different influential
members, that, on that head there would be no difficulty, or
delay, and encouraged to go on with my improvements; I
more than once called upon the two surviving gentlemen who
acted as agents for the association, in obtaining the leases,
and in whose name they stand, as agents to transfer them.
Their reply invariably was, that it would be done, that there
would be no difficulty, but that it ought to be done at a general
or special meeting, or by an order of the Board of Managers;
or words to that effect.
A general annual meeting was held at the Bank Coffee
House, in New-York, on the 9th of July, inst, at which were
present,—-Mr. John A. King, (President;) Smith Cutter,
(Yice President;) Alexander Hosack, Anthony Y. Winans,
-------Phelps, Charles L. Livingston, Cadwallader R. Col-
den. I there stated that I had not as yet received either a
transfer of the interest of the association, or an assignment of
the leases, and exhibited my deed for the part held under the
late Samuel Eldert, by which I showed that I had obtained
undisturbed possession the whole year of that proportion ; had
contracted for the part held under Cozine, but this last was
not material, (farther than as it respected my own individual
security,) as that lease belonged to mo by the resolution of
October, 1828, and by the letter of it gave undisturbed pos-AN EXPOSE.
io
session. I had drawn up an instrument, read it, and presented
it for the President and Board of Managers to sign, which
had the effect of an assignment and transfer. This was re-
fused then to be done, on the ground, as stated by the Presi-
dent, that the Secretary had not then with him, or the maeting
had not before them, the documents necessary to act upon,
viz: the resolution of October, 1S28, or my proposition, and
the meeting was adjourned until Monday, the 20th inst., with
the view of those papers being produced.
July 20th. The meeting assembled pursuant to adjourn-
ment, present, Mr. John A. King, President: Charles L.
Livingston, Secretary; Alexander Hosack, Anthony Y.
Winans, Henry Sydam, ■— --------H. Nicholl, Cadwallader R.
Oolden. The purport of the meeting being stated by the Pre-
sident, they proceeded to business, when the proposition in
writing heretofore made by me, was produced by Mr. Living-
ston, the Secretary: but the minutes of the meeting of Octo-
ber, 1828, containing the resolution then passed, could not
be had, they having been lost or mislaid, as was said by Mr.
Winnans, who on that occasion acted as secretary, pro. tern.
Some discussion now took place as to the wording of that
resolution, and some difference of opinion existed between
Mr. Hosack, the mover of the original resolution, and Mr.
Winans, the only gentlemen (except myself) now present who
were also at that meeting, as to the extent and full effect of
the same, and with neither of these gentlemen did I fully con-
cur. It was not denied by either, that I was to have an
assignment; my proposition said that I would take a sub-lease,
which certainly would have the operative effect of an assign-
ment ; objections were made to making this assignment, and
to settle and put an end to the debate, kept up between the
other members and myself, it was moved by Mr. Nicoll, and
seconded, “Will this association transfer the leases, held from
the late Samuel Eldert, and John Cozine, for the Union Race
Couase, to C. R. Colden.5> The question was put, and de-
cided in the negative, all the other members voting against
me. It was a most unblushing vote. Will it be believed
that the mover of the resolution of October, 1828, here voted
in the negative 1 Such is the fact!
This question was evidently out of order, having been
passed upon at a former meeting, could not then consistently
he acted upon, in its then shape ; and could only have been
brought up in the shape of a reconsideration, or in other lan-
guage, Will this meeting, break their word, their honor, and
faith already pledged to Mr. Golden ? which injull confidence
he has received and acted upon ? Such was the effect, and
such will be the consequence. As to what the resolution of16
AN EXPOSE.
October, 1S28 was, I possess indelible proof, such as cannot
be effaced, such as mnst be acknowledged, such as honest,
and honorable men admit, such as will baffle hypocrisy and
pervertion, and such as will cause little minds to shrink into
a sphere which would slander even insignificance.
It would be imagined that all this difference, this struggle,
this hesitation, this breach of plighted faith, had for its object
of retention and reward, something indeed of more than conrt^
mon value. Not so, Sir, what at the utmost was I to receive
in point of intrinsic worth ? Nothing! The possession of
about 56 acres of land, in a state of nudity, about 48 acres of
which, according to one lease, could only be occupied during
the months of May and October; which circumstance, as
they lay in common, created a like ebmarrassment as to the
residue, subject (for this possession of only two mohths) to the
enormous annual rent of 250 dollars. It may be said there
were buildings thereon; true \ an old rotten stage, which
kind and merciful Providence alone sustained at the last meet-
ing, from breaking the limbs, or sacrificing the lives of the
unwary spectators. An uncouth skeleton, or unfinished shell
of a building, dubbed a Club House • so far out of repair as to
require at least 100 dollars to give it the appearance of de-
cency, to embolden any gentleman to introduce a stranger.
And, (I had like to have forgot it,) an old board fence. But
even these wonderful fabrics, I was told at the last meeting,
I was not to have, that the club would sell them to me, no doubt
as a favor, in return for the money I have voluntarily expend-
ed, in a great measure, for their accommodation ; and as the
leases are to be withheld, it was more than generous to offer
to sell the old buildings, and thus put the whole again in their
power. This, sir, is a tender of kindness such as I sensibly
acknowledge, but would place me under too many obligations
to accept.
I am told by some that these leases are to be withheld as
a pledge for the performance of my engagement; or that I
must give security, and that if I fail to give races, and Pur-
ses, I am to forfeit the whole value of my outlay. This, Sir,
is taking new ground to exact something, in return for no-
thing. Let me ask if the purchases I have gone into, if the
large sum I have already expended, if the further sum con-
templated to be laid out, are not sufficient pledges of my in-
tentions and fulfilment, when it is evident the whole design is
that of a Race Ground ; and if races were discontinued, the
whole expenditure would be thrown away. But, Sir, the
Resolution of October, 1828, was clogged with none of these
odious ex-post-facto conditions. The association had be-
fore them my Proposal, and rested upon my word, and myAN EXPOSE.	17
honour; I upon theirs ; mine has been redeemed, theirs has
been forfeited.
In was with a view to encourage the breeders of Blood
Horses, to give increased value to that stock in our respec-
tive professions, to give encouragement to Trainers, to bring
forward, and purchase the young stock in the hands of breed-
ers, that I entered upon the design, and undertook to revive
the amusement, and give them additional employment, bv
making the experiment of a Second Meeting both Spring and
Fall ; in which I am confident I should have succeeded but
for this interuption. I repeat the words encouragement to
Trainers and Breeders, for it is them, and the owners of hor-
ses, that are the real supporters of a Race Course, and the
life of the amusement, and the course in turn, is in duty
bound, to yield a competent reward for their labors, and some
interest for their capital employed. The bare subscriber of
10 or 12 dollars is of very secondary importance; And though
we may be always happy to see these gentlemen among us,
on the score of good fellowship and sociability, in point of
aid they are of little consideration, and never can compare
with owners, Breeders, or Trainers, as supporters of a
Racing Establishment, or useful members of a Jockey Club.
So far from it, I am sorry to say, that not being conversant
•with the laws, rules or regulations of the Turf, their being
entitled to a voice is too often productive of mischief, and
subversive of the interest of those last named gentlemen who
have a large stake in their respective stocks, which position
may probably be verefied by the vote recently given on the
20th inst., as it virtually goes to dissolve all connection be-
tween the association and myself; and may eventually com-
pel me totally to withhold that encouragement, which it was
my wish and my pride to have afforded.
The stand which the Club.have taken by their recent vote,
and our relation of Jockey Club and Manager appears dis-
solved, the o»nly thing that remains to be agitated, is the sim-
ple question of possession. Rest assured, I can never con-
descend to receive as a favor, that to which I consider myself
entitled to as a right: and however I might, with pleasure
and with a degree of enthusiasm have acted with the gentle-
men of the club, I can never descend to act servilely under
them, and thereby subject, myself to the insulting or imperi-
ous dictates of individuals, and have these leases shook , over
me in terrorem, by such as may not have the manhood to use
aught save paper. Nor am I disposed in future to attend
any meeting where, (as at the two last) my private concerns
are to be canvassed, and undergo a scrutiny ; where I am to
answer how much I have paid or how much I owe. For any
c18
Air EXPOSE.
piece of property; to encounter the rude and disconnected,
inquisitiveness of a Paul Pry—or in a manner not less dis-
respectful to the presiding officer, than to myself, see a meet-
ing convened on my account, broke up abruptly.
Permit me to tender to you individually as well as many
other members of the club, the assurance of my highest regard
and respect, and my pledge to the breeders, owners, and
trainers of blood horses, that their interest will never be lost
sight of, that whether I remain the proprietor possessor or
manager of the Union Course, or am otherwise situated, my
best exertions shall be put forth in their behalf, and that I shall
henceforth and at all times cordially co-operate with them in
a pursuit, wherein, like themselves, I am deeply interested,
and in the advancement of an amusement, of which I am
enthusiastically fond.
What wjU be the termination of this business, I cannot pre-
dict ; but this I do know, goaded by injury, roused by my
wrongs, and indignant, I will maintain my right to the last,
and “ come what may, come one, come all,’’-—with my
“ face to Heaven, and my foot to the foe, give no inch of
ground.’5
With assurance of great respect,
I remain dear sir,
Your most obedient servant,
CADWALLADER It. CoLDEN.
This remonstrance, Mr. King, from the be.st motives,
and in the hope, that an adjustment would yet be brought
about, withheld from the Club.
I had now made up my mind to shut up the Race
Course, conceiving every thing in the nature of compact be-
tween the association and myself at an end. Upon reflec-
tion, however, I resolved once more, to make an attempt to
obtain justice at their hands ; and persuaded that a large ma-
jority of the members were ignorant of what* had taken
place, l thought the most proper time to bring the subject
again before them, would be at the Semi-annual fall Races,
the ensuing October, when the greater number would be on
the spot, confidently believing that those who were present at
the meeting in October, 182S, and who by the resolution
then passed, had drawn me into the undertaking and expen-
diture of so much money, would feel bound to see me
through ; in this belief I determined to give the thing a fur-
ther trial. Accordingly I advertised the October Races and
made the necessary preparations. The Purses were run for,
won, and paid in the following order ; first day 4 mile heats,
Purse 600 dollars, won by Mr. McLeans Grey Mare, Be-AN EXPOSE.
19
my Ransom, and paid to Mr. McLean; second day, 250
dollars 2 mile heats, won by Sir Charles, and paid to Mr.
Gordon ; third day, 400 dollars, 3 mile heats, won by Mr.
J. L. Stevens, mare Black Maria. Dinner being annonnced,
1 repaired to the Club House, and joined the members at the
dinner table, resolved the moment an opportunity offered to
ask for an assignment of the Leases, and all the Interest of
the Club to the Premises ; as soon as dinner was over the bu-
siness was called up. It is out of my power at this time to
give the names of all the members present, but I well remem-
ber Mr. John A. King, Mr. Walter Livingston, Asher P.
Hamlin, John C. Stevens, Robert L. Stevens, George
Sharp, Henry Suydam, Alexander Hosack, and if my memo-
ry serves, Anthony V. Winnans. After some argument the
question as to whether the association would assign (in pur-
suance of the Resolution passed in October, 1828) was put
and an unanimous vote given in the negative. 1 felt thunder
struck and indignant, and 1 felt also for the honor of those
who thus in the face of the assurance given to me in that
same room a twelve month previous, confiding in which I
had been induced to act, now set their pledge at nought: yes
reader their pledge; I have said that I possessed uncontro-
vertible proof of what that pledge was, and here I will give
it to you.—First, let me inform you how I came by it. A. Y.
Winnans who acted as Secretary to the meeting held in Oc-
tober 1828, (at which the resolution to assign to me passed,)
lost his minutes, and in order to ascertain correctly what was
then done, I called upon Mr. Hossack, the mover of the
resolution, and asked him to give me under.his hand what it
was, he gave it to me, and here you have it.
44 At a meeting of the members of the New York Asso-
44 ciation for improvement of the breed of Horses, held on
44 the-----day of October 1828.—Walter Livingston in
44 the Chair.—A. V. Winnans Sec’r, pro. tem.
44 An application was received from C. R. Colden, proposing
44 to take from the Club the lease of Union Course on Long
44 Island, whereupon it was resolved,
44 That the association convey to him all their right, title,
44 and lease for the same upon his complying with the condi-
44 tions contained in his proposals in writing, and obtaining
44 undisturbed possession of the same from Messrs. Eldert
6{ and Cozine.
Dear Sir,
I understand the above to be the intent and meaning of
the Resolution adopted at the meeting of the club alluded to.
Yours,
A, HosacKoAN EXPOSE*
20
To A. V. Winnans Esq.	12 Feb?y 1829,
I must injustice to Mr. C. H. Hall, Mr. S. Ringold, and
Mr. T. Rudd, who were present when the resolution of Oc-
tober 1828 was passed, make known that they were not at
the meeting in October 1829. To these gentlemen 1 attach no
censure. Another circumstance took place at this last meet-
ing in October 1829, which as it had a strong bearing upon
my conduct at that time, 1 will state. It is to be remembered
that two meetings were contemplated to have been held dur-
ing this month, and that which had now taken place was the
first; as soon as the gentlemen had denied me the assign-
ment. I asked Mr. Sharp, the Treasurer, what amount he
wras going to give me or to contribute towards the purses
of the Second Meeting; he replied very abruptly that he had
no money for me. I at once remonstrated, and gave the Club
to understand that this was not only contrary to the spirit
and intent of our compact, but that it bore very hard upon
me, that I had absolutely lost money at the present meeting
that the expenses during the three days racing for the
attendants alone, such as gate and door keepers, ticket
sellers, Constables, and Sheriff &c. &e. amounted to 100
dollars per day besides wear and tare, keeping the ground
in order, interest of the capital, &c. which added to the ag-
gregate of the purses 1250 dollars, would amount to more
than received. That the only profit to be anticipated was the
Second Meeting, at which it was expected the club would
make good from their subscription one half of the sum to
be paid as purses. Mr. Sharp then made known that 170
dollars was all the money in his hands. Finding that if a se-
cond meeting was had, I should have to pay all the purse mo-
ney, except this 170 dollars which would be coming forward
with 455 dollars to make good the deficiency, or half which
the club ought to furnish, I was compelled to give up all idea
of a second meeting. I nevertheless asked for and claimed
the 170 dollars in the hands of the Treasurer, as money sub-
scribed for the course, a meagre compensation for the loss
of my second meeting, yet will you believe it, that a ques-
tion was taken, as to whether I should have this petty sum to
assist me to make good my loss, and that it was carried in
the affirmative by the casting vote of the President only. You
must know also that the Fulton and Catharine Ferries, be-
tween the City and Brooklyn, have each generally given a
voluntary donation to the course ; the former 50 dollars and
the latter 25 dollars, in both May and October, and to which
I was at present beyond doubt, entitled as the representative
of the course. Mr. Sharp to my astonishment received 50
dollars given at this time by the Fulton Ferry and continuesAN EXPOSE*
21
to retain it. From the Catharine Ferry, I believe nothing
was received. The buisness of the day being finished and the
races over, Mr. Stevens called on me for the purse of 400
dollars just won by his mare Black Maria. I felt sore at what
had just transpired. My engagement to pay the whole of the
Purses at the first meeting was founded upon a reciprocal ob-
ligation on the part of the club, viz. to assigne their intrest in
the premises, and to pay 625 dollars as half the amont of
purses for a second meeting, both of which they had unequi-
vocally that day refused to perform .$ Mr. Stevens, was one
of the club, consequently one of the parties, and in person by
the vote which he had given within the last hour sanctiond,
and contributed to this breach of engagement: viewing the
matter in this light, I considered myself on the ground of re-
ciprocity, justifiable in withholding the money from him; with
a stranger the case would have been different. I took time
to reflect, and withheld payment. I was then and still am of
opinion that from that moment I was absolved from all per-
formances of compact and every sense of obligation towards
the club, or the individual members who voted upon this ques-
tion, and I resolved within myself to break off all connection
with them. I had in August previous sold the fee of the pro-
perty to Mr. C. C. Moore, and as the ground of my agreement
with the club, and the merits of the case were known to a few
* only, I feared that my presisting in this resolution might op-
perate injuriously to him, I therefore subsequently altered mv
determination, nothing more was heard of the matter or of
the Race Course by me until March 1830, where I received
from Mr. George Sharp a letter, wishing to know when I
was going to advertise the races, and stating that a number
of the members were anxious that it should be done, to
which I replied that I expected to be shortly in New York,
but if unexpectedly detained, would get a friend to attend for
rne, and make the necessary arrangements. Mr. C. C.
Moore came to an understanding with me, that he should
take upon himself the management of the course. I
gave him letters of introduction, to that effect, to several
of the leading members—and hejeft Troy for New York, to
make his arrangements accordingly. But to both his and
my great surprise, a meeting of the Club had been called be-
fore he reached the City, and the Races for May were ad-
vertised to be held, under the immediate direction of the as-
sociationr. At this meeting I am credibly informed, it was
proposed to take forcible possession of the Course by virtue
of the unexpired time of the leases, about six years, which
they had engaged to assign, and sequester all the improve-
ment I had made, upon the ground that by withholding the22
AN EXPOSE.
Parse of 400 dollars won by Mr. Steven’s mare Black Ma-
ria, at the last meeting I had violated my engagement, and
forfeited all that the Club had given me. In the name of com-
mon sense what had they given to me 1 the privillege of pur-
chasing the fee of this leased ground, at the cost of 4700
dollars, and putting the track in good order, and finding the
Course for them to race upon free of rent, in place of their
paying 250 dollars per annum for the use of it during May
and October only ; the further privilege of paying all the ex-
penses of advertisements, that of the attendants, such as Police
officers, Gate and Door Keepers, Venders of Tickets, to the
number of at least 30 men each day ; of furnishing 1250 to
be run for at the first meeting, and half this sum at the se-
cond meeting and the further privilege of pulling down
their old rotten stand, ready to fall and break the limbs
of hundreds, and erecting a new, commodious, and substan-
tial one in the place of it, of repairing the tattered club house,
and fitting it up so as to give it some appearance of decency,
of enclosing the starting place and part of the stretch with an
expensive picket of red cedar posts for the distance of seven-
ty rods, with draw gates at each extremity, upon a novel plan
of my own, in such manner as to keep off the rush of the
crowd, and prevent them from annoying the horses either at
the start or between the heats, of putting a railing round the
whole inner edge of the track, of encompassing the whole *
ground with a high, strong, permanent, and expensive fence,
to the tune of 7000 dollars; and, lastly, of taking the trou-
ble and management of this irksome concern off the shoul-
ders of these gentlemen. These constitute the great prive-
leges and immunities which have been so generously and so
boastingly bestowed upon me, in effecting which I have
been indulged, it is true, with permission to throw away my
money, and for which it is now said I am ungrateful, and
even these were to be wrested from me or from Mr. Moore,
who was about to take my place, without returning one penny
of 11,700 dollars., which was the amount of the outlay. Had
the gentleman from Dutchess, who so strenuously urged the
adoption of this measure, been as ready in October, 1829, to
do me justice, as he was in May to exact more than apper-
tained to it, matters would never have come to this pass, a
thing which I some time back foresaw, and in my memorial
to Mr. King foretold ; but as it was his bull that had gored
my ox, “ that materially altered the case.”
Mr. Moore understanding that Mr. Sharp, the treasurer on
the part of the club, had engaged gate keepers, door keepers,
ticket sellers, and the other usual attendants, consequently
intending to take possession, had an interview with him; Mr,AN EXPOSE.
23
Sharp gave him to understand that such was his intention;
determined to retain whaffright belonged to him, yet wishing ^ >	&
to avoid anything unpleasant, that might occur in the event	*
of such an attempt, he addressed the following note to Mr.
King the President.
Sin,	May 1830.
Permit me as the proprietor of the Union Course, to in-
form you, that although I cannot think of resigning to the
association, of which you are President, the possession of the
ground, I have nevertheless no objections to submit to the
club, the internal police, so far as appertains to the ordering
of the race, and management of the track. The gate keep-
ers, door keepers, and keepers of the stands, I will myself
appoint, who must bo under my direction. I must also ap-
point or nominate, or will concur with you in the appointment
of a person, who as the principle agent and vender of tickets,
shall receive the avails, with an understanding and directions
that he pay over to the Treasurer of the association each day,
the nett proceeds, until the sum of 1,250 dollars shall have
been thus paid, provided that the proceeds after defraying the
wages of the different officers and attendants, amount to that
sum. In making the necessary arrangements as to door and
gate keepers, ticket sellers, &c., I have every thing at stake,
the association little, and should any mismanagement or de-
falcation take place on the part of those people, if appointed
by the club, it would be difficult for me to obtain redress, to
seek it unpleasant.
I would therefore suggest to you and the association, the
propriety of taking the subject into more serious considera-
tion.
Respeetftdiy your obedt. servant,
To John A. King, Esq.	Cadr. C. Moore.
President of the New-York Association for the
improvement of the breed of horses.
The difference was at length adjusted, and it was settled
that Mr. Moore should retain possession, and as proprietor of
the course, act as manager.
Wishing now to reconcile all matters, as far as the reputa-
tion and credit of the Course stood affected in a pecuniary
sense, notwithstanding the manner iri which I had been
treated at the last Fall meeting, I thought proper no longer
to withhold the 400 dollars won by Black Maria, and address-
ed to Mr. King the following letter with that sum inclosed.24
AN EXPOSE.
Union Course, Long-Island, May 10, 183&
Sir,
Inclosed are 400 dollars, being the amount of the purse
won by Mr. John C. Stevens’s mare Black Maria, three mile
heats over the Union Course, at the last October meeting,
which I will thank you to deliver to that gentleman.
As much publicity has been given, and much been said by
certain members of the association, in relation to the non-
payment of this sum, thus far delayed, I trust that you will do
me the justice to make known that this pledge is now redeem-
ed. Had this sum been due to theclub, I might under existing
circumstances, and what I must ever consider a violation of
their engagement with me, have been justifiable in withhold-
ing it, but falling upon an individual, confiding in me, it be-
comes a debt of honor.	^
Although I charge the associa^n generally, with a breach
of plighted faith, trusting to which, I was induced to make
purchases, form cahtFae|§,/and expend a large sum; yet
there are many members who even at this day, are ignorant
of the extent and nature of that pledge. Those gentlemen
individually I exculpate, but such as were present and com-
posed that meeting, and by their vote and the resolution of
the association thus convened, gave me this, assurance;* and
afterwards set their plighted faith at nought, I must ever re-
main at variance with.	/
That pledge was, sthat the association would upon my in-
tention and willingness to accept, assigned transfer to tne,
not only the leases which they held of the^rround, but also all
their right title and interest.
This assertion I am prepared to support by incontroverti-
ble proof. What then must every upright man think ? When
it is made known, that this same association at a subsequent
meeting, refused to give this transfer, and that the very mem-
ber who moved the resolutio?if was one of the first to vote
against its being carried into effect; and this too, after I had
been led into the purchase of one tract of land, made a con-
tract for another, and expended 7000 dollars in erecting fen-
ces, buildings, and repairing the track, and had to the full
completed my engagement. In short sir, I produced order
where heretofore confusion reigned, raised from a fallen state
the institution, which had so far sunk, that in 1828 it had be-
come the scoff of the public prints, and placed it in a state of
respectability and prosperity. In addition to the wrong above
set forth, a subscription from the members individually, of
less amount than I had stipulated for, was forced upon me,
and an implied contract, that the club would make up half theAH EXPOSE.
25
amount of the purses for ike second meetings, was not on thei^
part fujilled, Add to which, while in the performance of my
duty as keeper of the match book and recorder of racing trans-
actions, I was insulted, as far as puny prowess could urge on
native nothingness, and when I had the temerity to enforce,
and insist upon receiving the treatment due me as a gentle-
man, in place of being supported by the club, a pitiful cabal
g^jC^^ of tn#re ten dollar men who never trod the turf, was formed
against me. Let any unbiassed man judge whether the insti-
tution would have been under the order which it now assumes,
had it not been for my exertions.
, While I now leave the association in the full enjoyment of
those pleasant sensations, which a sense of their liberal and
magnanimous conduct towards me, cannot fail to produce,
Permit me to tender to you individually my highest esteem,
ti and to subscribe myself,
Your most obedient servant,
To John A. King, Esq.,	Cadwallader R. Golden,
President of the New-York Association for the
improvement of the breed of horses.
This letter with its contents were given by Mr. King*, to
Mr. Sharp the Treasurer. I paid, my annual subscription as
a member, and in that capacity appeared on the course, not
interfering with the direction of the races. Mr. Moore paid
to Mr. Sharp, from his own funds 1300 dollars as per receipt,
1,250 dollars of which being the amount of the three purses
run for at this first Spring Meeting May 1830, and 50 dol-
lars to cover the advertisements, which the Treasurer said
lie was liable for.
The first meeting being over, arrangements for the second
Spring meeting, were next to be made. Mr. Sharp in behalf
of the association insisted upon giving only two purses, the
one for three, and the other for two miles; and in place of
making that for the three miles as heretofore, 400 dollars, to
increase it to 500 dollars ; and for the two miles to give 300
dollars in place of 250 dollars, which would make the whole
sum to be paid at the second meeting 800 dollars, in the room
of 1250 dollars the proper sum, observing at the same time,
that by this management, there would be a considerable por-
tion of the Spring subscription yet in hand, which when added
to the sum which" would be received in October, from the
Fail subscribers, would greatly assist in making up the pur-
ses in the Fall and in accordance with this disposition of
things, Mr. Sharp proposed, and promised to make good on
the part of the club, 400 dollars, being the utmost he would26
AN EXPOSE.
pay, and this Mr. Moore was compelled to accept. Where-'
upon, he gave to Mr. Sharp the like sum of 400 dollars as
the quota of the proprietor of the Course.
Upon my being informed that such was the plan fixed up-
on, that there was to be no purse for four miles, and that the
sum heretofore given was to be curtailed more than one third,
while there yet remained money in the hands of the Treasurer,
I felt mortified, especially as there was now on the grpund,
and for the first time during my recollection, two distinct sta-
bles of horses from the South, with intent to contend not only
against the North, but against each other, one of which, (that
of Mr. J. Harrison, Jun.) not being able to get here in
time for the first meeting, had come purposely to attend, the
second. And as I had pledged myself to the Southern gen-
tlemen, at the meeting held the previous Fall, that there
should be two meetings in the Spring, which implied full
meetings, with the usual purses, for 4, 3, and 2 miles. I felt
committed, not only as late manager of the track, but as a
member, and one of the 15 managers of the club, and in the
latter capacity, addressed the following letter to Mr. King the
President.
Dear Sir,	May 13th 1830.
I understand that at the second meeting, to commence on
the 24th, or 25th inst, it has been settled by the association,
or by the association and the present acting manager jointly,
that there is to be only two purses given, viz. for the three mile
and two mile heats, consequently withholding the principle
purse of 600 dollars as a premium for the best four mile
horse.
As a member of the club, and one of the managers, I must
enter my dissent to this proceeding, as I consider it unjust to
the owner of the best 4 mile horse, and derogatoiy to the
honor of the Association generally, particularly to that of the
managers, in which latter capacity I have a voice.
4s it will be expected that I give some reasons for taking
this strong ground, I will endeavor to give them as briefly as
possible.
When I made a proposition to the club in 1828, to take the
management of the Course, inclose it, and put it into the or-
der in which it now is, it was among other things agreed,
That the Proprietor or Manager of the Course, should in
both May and October, give 1250 dollars to compose three
Purses of 600, 400, and 250 dollars, and whatever the sub-
scription of the members amounted to, not exceeding 1500
dollars, that the proprietor or Manager would add a corres-
ponding sum, collectively to make the Purses of the SecondAN EXPOSE*
27
Meetings in May and October, whereby the obligation on the
•part of the Club, to make up, or give half the money to be
run for at the Second meeting is implied, if not obligatory,
and it is equally so on the part of both the proprietor of the
course, and the club, to furnish money, (each one half) for
those Second Meetings, in three purses of not less than
600, 400, and 250 dollars.
I have said that I think the present resolution, or intention
to give only two Purses, for three, and two mile heats, to be
run for at the second meeting, unjust. The owner of the
present best apparent four mile horse has travelled a great
distance to meet the association, and join in the sport of the
Union Course. I consider it in addition, a great want of
courtesy to him as a stranger, and a distinguished Sportsman;
and in the spirit of improvement it ought not to be dispensed
with ; and as the superiority of his horse has been shewn,
it is doubly incumbent on the association to profer the reward,
to withhold it, sneahingly dishonorable.
That there would be a second meeting was announced to
the Public. Mr. Johnson individually, was last October given
to understand, that a Second Meeting would be held, and a
meeting, in the general acceptation, implies a full one, cer-
tainly not one curtailed ; and you are equally bound to give
full purses should a single horse walk over the ground, as to
a field of twenty. If you pursue a contrary course, what be-
comes of the encouragement held out to Breeders, and
Trainers.
I am aware that thus boldly advancing my opinion, I shall
incur the displeasure of some, perhaps of many, but not I
hope of any just or honorable roan. The translation of the
French words which my ancestors assumed (“ Do right,
fear nothing”) J shall strictly adhere to, and although the
club have in three points set at nought their engagement with
me, and violated their plighted faith, I trust I shall, Sale
man like, survive the fire.
I now ask that this my dessent may be publicly made
known, and entered on the minutes of the association. Not
that I expect that it will have any weight, but that it may
shew that one member protested against this proceeding, and
hope a better fate will await this expostulation, than that of
my letter of the 10th inst. (covering 400 dollars due Mf^Ste-
vens,) which, altho' evidently intended for the ear of the
Club, was contrary to its destination, deposited with your
Treasurer, where I fear it will be reserved as an ornament
for the temple only. I have the honor to remain, Dr. Sir,
your obedt. servt,
To John A. King, Esq.	Cadwallader R. Coldest
President of the New York Association for the
improvement of the breed of Horses.AN EXPOSE,
28
This letter, together with that of the 10th of May, were
read to the Club, or at least to a portion of those who had
assumed the control, and Mr. King was directed to return
them to me, which he did. These are the letters which
have been so much talked of, as containing so much offen-
sive matter ; the la?t of which was written, (I wish it to be
noted) not as Proprietor of the Course, or acting manager
of the track, who orders the arrangementss in relation to the
Police of the Course ; but as a member, and one of the 15
who are annually elected to manage the affairs of the asso-
ciation. They contained truths, but the truth was not to be
expressed. I was not to be be allowed to exhibit the wrong
done to me, or espouse the cause of the Sportsmen ; they
were too evident, and in the ratio that they were so, the ex-
posure gave offence, deadly offence, and my destruction was
resolved upon, as I would not tamely submit to oppression, or
bow to injustice ; I was to be ruined, in a pecuniary sense,
and this once accomplished, it would be an easy matter to get
rid of me, or mould me to their purpose, and the goodly
work was set about.
Nothing, however, tended to empede the sport, or damp
the ardor of the Sportsmen, at this second meeting, matches
and sweepstakes of magnitude were run in addition to the
two purses of 500 and 300 dollars, heats of three and two
miles ; the races continued 5 days, and the sport was fine.
The Proprietor of the Course now began to calculate his pro-
fit or loss, and to collect his perquisites, and among other
things did not forget to call upon the Agents or Superinten-
dants of the Fulton and Catherine Ferries, for their semi-
annual donation of 50 dollars and 25 dollars, when to his
astonishment he learned that Mr. Sharp, the Treasurer of the
Club, had been too quick for him, had actually taken up
these two little donations to the Course, which he withheld,
a,nd to this day withholds; this was the Spring donation; the
Proprietor had paid into the hands of Mr. Sharp all he asked
for, or required, either in the shape of purse money or expen-
ses. Mr. Sharp had no demand against him, growing out of
the compact; and under no circumstances was he justifiable
in forestaling, or meddling with the perquisites of the Course,
and as in the present instance he had received all the money
required of the proprietor, no pretext can palliate such con-
duct ; it was a little trick played off, in first promising to pay
400 dollars, as half the amount of the purses to be given at
the second meeting, and then thus snatching 75 dollars of it
back again ; which in effect was paying only 325 dollars on
the part of the club, and by this petty stratagem, imposing on
the proprietor of the course the payment of 475 dollars. ButAN EXPOSE.
29
he may say in his defence, that these donations were not
made to the course, but to the club, and as their Treasurer he
had aright to receive them, and as he has done, retain them.
Not so ; the intent of them was to aid the institution by les-
sening the burden, and thereby encourage the undertaking ;
and in that sense were they given. Certainly not to lessen or
take off about 2 dollars from the meagre subscription of each
individual member; for if pocketed by their Treasurer in
their behalf, it could have no other application. They were
not to make up their quoto of the purses at the second meet-
ings by appropriating to themselves any such little donations,
or inducements. They might with equal propriety, assume
the rents of the booths, and money received for tickets of
admission. No ; the compact had with the proprietor points
out the source from which they are to furnish their proportion;
it confines them to their subscription ; and thereby in the dis-
tinct sense and spirit of the thing, leaves to the proprie-
tor all such gleanings. This circumstance constitutes anoth-
er departure cn the part of the association, from the original
as well as the present agreement had with the proprietor ;
for the bare mention of which, I presume I shall have again
to undergo the fiery ordeal of the select half dozen, who dub
themselves “ the Club” and “ carry the course upon their
backs.”
The Spring meetings having past, the annual meeting of
the members, held according to the articles of the association
on the first Monday in June, was called by the usual public
notice. Mr. King, the President, Mr. Sharp, and Mr. A.
IJosack, were the only members who attended ; no officers
for the ensuing year could be elected, a quorum not being
formed agreeeble to the articles.
July arrived, and Mr. Moore intending to leave town on
account of iil health, and it being uncertain whether he would
return in time to make preparations for the October Races,
made an arrangement with me to perform that task, and as-
sume the direction, and with a view of giving notice thereof,
addressed Mr. King a letter to that effect.
July and August passed away without any movement in re-
lation to the Fall Races ; An the hope that some of the Gen-
tlemen who had taken an interest in the thing, would signify
their wishes, as to the mode or time, I waited till the 5th of
September. No person came forward to consult or advise ;
on the contrary, a rumour was circulated, wiih more than
common industry, and that too by that small knot of gentle-
men, who assume the title of “ the club” that there would
be no races and the Dutchess Association were out with their
advertisement, appointing their races on the established and30
AN EXPOSE.
well known day of the First October meeting on the Union
Course. I was asked repeatedly, if there were to be any
races on the Union Course that Fall,; and having answer-
ed in the affirmative, the cry that there would be none was
redoubled. At length my advertisemnt appeared ; still the
same cry was kept up in the face of it, and echoed not only
through the city, bu spread far and wide throughout the coun-
try ; thus holding back spectators, and destroying confidence.
During the last Spring, (1830) there was 4 days racing at
the first meeting, and 5 at the second, which was universally
admitted to be of too long duration. Every body, even the
most ardent Sportsmen, became tired of attending so many
days in succession ; and it had been remarked, that only one
race each day, was not sufficient to create excitement, or to
fill up the time ; in which I concurred, and wished to afford a
remedy. I was even of opinion that two days racing in suc-
cession would be better than the usual number of three, and
wished to make the experiment.
As those who enter into matches or sweepstakes are desi-
rous of having them come off some days prior to the regular
Purse Races, in order to give such horses as may have been
matched or engaged in stakes, time to recover sufficiently to
enable them to enter for the purses, and intending the regu-
lar Purse Races to take place on the I9th and 20th of Oct.,
I set forth in my advertisement, that the course would be
opened the preceeding week, to wit, the 12th and 13th for the
purpose of running matches and sweepsteaks ; and lest
there should not be sufficient of these to render the sport of
the day interesting, I gave a Silver Cup each day, of the
value of 100 dollars, writh 150 in Cash added to each ; heats
of two miles ; the one to be run for by horses which had
never started, and the other by horses bred and trained by
their then owners, and made challengable9 after the manner
of some of the cups run for in England. These cups were
not to be considered as being part of, or having any relation
to the regular purses ; they bad no bearing upon them, but
were a gratuitous offering ; the one to the owners of young
horses, to encourage them to to bring them forward, in a race
where none of their opponents had been proved ; and the
other to create a rivalship among breeders, to induce them
to train, and test the excellence of their respective breeds ;
and being subject to a challenge, were equal to a continued
sweepstakes with one standing subscriber. Although these
cups formed no part of the usual purses, or were aught to
which the club or the Sportsmen had a claim even in ex-
pectancy ; yet I was sorely reprobated, for thus assuming the
priviledge of doing as I pleased with that which was my own.AN EXPOSE.
31
“We want none of your Cups, give us money, money alone,
we will not run for them5’ was the burden of the soog, ac-
companied with some hard epithets. There was certainly no
compulsion, it was in the power of gentlemen to make their
election without descending to scurrulity.
It is at all times a hard task to please every body, and in
this instance found it so to please anybody. Wishing to es-
tablish and bring in use by degrees cups and plates, challeng-
able upon the English principles, I had advertised for the four
mile day of the regular races, a piece of silver plate, of the va-
lue of 300 dollars, with three hundred added in cash ; at this
ayet louder clamour was raised, and money! money! nothing
but money, was vociferated aloud and afar, and the plate,
race course and myself, were unceremoniously d-----------da
thousand times. That this was an innovation, or something
different from what had been the custom, is true, and I am
ready to admit, that, as it constituted a part of one of the
usual and regular purses, it presented a case very different
from that of the cups ; the proprietors of horses, or the associ-
ation if you please, might therefore he said to have a right to
censure or applaud, and being desirous of giving satisfaction,
I sent forth an extra advertisement, giving notice that the
plate would be withdrawn, and money substituted.
Wishing to settle all disputes, banish every disagreeable
feeling that existed between the association and myself, or
any individual members, I addressed to Mr. Walter Living-
ston, about a fortnight before the commencement of the races,
a letter, which was submitted by him to some of the leading
members, and although it contained every overture towards
an adjustment that a gentleman could be expected to make,
and a proposition to leave all matters in difference to three
gentlemen of the association,no notice was taken of it, unless
a continuance of persecution may be so considered.
The 12th and 13th arrived, and as was expected after the
clamour against the cups and the plate, the unremitting de-
claration on the part of a certain knot of the members,
against the manager for having dared to espouse his rights,
and proclaim his wrongs, and the cry that there would be no
races kept up to the last moment. The course was very
thinly attended, a few scattering members only were present.
The treasurer kept away, and with him the treasure; no col-
lection was made from those members whose subscription
falls due in October, nor was there any person to give tickets
of admission to such new members as offered ; this was the
province of Mr. Sharp, it was purposely omitted ; the ruin
of the present manager was decreed ; oppression and des-
truction was the watch word, The races however, went on32
AN EXPOSE.
some matches took placo ; the cups were run for and deliv-^
ered, amounting in all to 500 dollars. The managers dis-
bursement for gate keepers and other attendants, during those
two days, were 200 dollars, making an aggregate of 700
dollars ; he received in return half that sum, and his “ kind
well wishers” were highly gratified.
Next came the 19th, the day on which the principle of the
regular purses was to be run for. It had been whispered to
me in confidence, that I would receive no assistance from the
club, so far from it, every means would be taken, (to use the
phrase of my informant) to break me down ; and I was even
advised to hold no Races, to pay nothing for Purses, on my
part, as the club would pay nothing on theirs. I was slow to
believe that gentlemen could wage this unmanly war against
an individual who was the injured party, and therefore resol-
ved to bring it to a test. The sports of the day commenced,
two matches were run, which occupied the time until nearly
one o’clock, the usual hour for starting for a Purse. From 25
to 30 members only were on the ground, who took pos-
session of the Club Stand ; and many enjoyed the freedom
of the course without even tendering the contribution impo-
sed upon ordinary spectators. Mr. Treasurer Sharp was one
of the absentees. It was now well understood that the course
was to receive no support from the association, either by way
of the fund which was remaining in the hand of the Trea-
surer, from the subscription of those members who paid last
Spring, or from that of those who paid in the Fall: conse-
quently whatever in the way of the purses now to be paid,
was to come out of the manager, or proprietors sole resour-
ces ; thus heaping upon his shoulders, the whole burthen of
these October races, embracing not only the amount of the
purses, but the wages of the Police, and all other attendants;
together with the half years rent of the premises or interest
of the capital. It so happened that Mr. Moore was on the
ground, and I at once consulled with him as to the proper
course to be pursued, under this desertion on the part of the
club ; I gave it as my decided opinion that as the club had
withheld their support and withdrawn from the course, there
was an end of all compact between them and the proprietor ;
that the obligation on the part of the proprietor to give pur-
ses and hold races, was had with the club, and not with the
populace or any individual present; and as this abandon-
ment by the association utterly absolved the proprietor from
every part and particle of his obligation, that under present cir-
cumstances I would advise returning to the owners of horse
their entrance money, and to the spectators the money they
had paid for admission, dismiss the meeting, and shut up the
3$
course. He, oa the contrary was for going on with the Race,
and upon an observation being made by a third person, that
it would make no difference to the proprietor, on the score
of profit or loss, whether the price of admission was retur-
ned to the spectators or given to be run for, and it being sug-
gested that this measure would give satisfaction to the popu-
lance, we made it publicly known, by declaring on the ground
that in addition to our own time and services, and the use of
the ground, we were ready to pay over to be run for, every dol-
lar received for admission to the course or to the stand, be
the same more or less, but should it fall short of the amount
of the purse, as advertised, that we would not make up the
deficiency from our own private funds, that we had no con»
troul over the subscription of the members, or the funds of the
club then in hand ; they remained with the Treasurer ; that
the only money which we could controul, was that received for
tickets of admission, and this we would pay over to the last
cent; together with the entrance money, if the gentlemen
who had entered horses thought proper to run for it Two
were for accepting the offer, the third declined, and while we
were discussing the subject, some ruffians, who were among
the spectators on the stand, grew impatient at the delay,
broke into th^jficket office, assulted the keeper of the office,
seized upon the money, and each carried off what he could
grab. This riot put an end to everything, and thus the races
went off.
To Dutchess County, to Poughkeepsie was the cry; the
gentlemen of‘ the Club’ made their way to the tavern of Mr,
John R. Snediclier, when those very men, who would not
tender their autumnal subscriptions to the Union Course,
which was due to it by compact, came freely out in favor of
Dutchess, and made a voluntary contribution of something
exceeding 600 dollars, and lest some good natured easy men
of Long Island, who owing to the excitement of the moment,
had been led into this measure, not well knowing what they
did, should upon reflection retract, the master magician
that very night sent his advertisement to the Press, and
adopting the language of the Union Course, next day appear-
ed. u The Second meeting of Dutchess County Races,” a
.meeting never before thought of, and which in all probability
will never be thought of again. If any thing more is wanting
to show the premediated, long harboured, and fondly cher-
ished hostility to the Long Island Course, and decided par-
tiality for Dutchess, on the part of Mr. Stevens, I will make
known to such of you as are not already apprized of the
fact; that this same disinterested gentleman, after the
snatch between his mare* Bhck Maria and Mr. W. R. John-34
AN EXPOSE.
son's Colt Brilliant, hadbeen made to run on the Union Course
after I had taken charge of the Course, and expended a large
sum in its improvement, I made an overture to Mr. Johnson,
to change the ground, and run on the Dutches Course ; and
a further attempt was made by him to carry the great sweep-
stake, which was won last spring, from Long Island to
Dutches, and even last May, when the match for 5000 dol-
lars between Arietta and Sir Lovell was on the tapis, the
thing set on foot in the Union Club room, and horses on the
spot, Dutches was the ground first named. Again the
principal part of the sweepstakes which have been run at Dut-
ches, and in particular, the large stake which came off this
last October, was got up by Mr. Stevens in the Club Room,
on the Union Course; did not the gentleman view every con-
sideration of no import, contrasted with the prosperity of the
Dutches Course, he would not lay aside the courtesy due to
the Union Club, the frequenters of that Course, the Long Is-
land Gentleman, and the interest of the proprietor by ma-
king the Union Club Room the catering plaee of Dutches.
Not satisfied with what had already been brought to pass,
my feelings were yet to be farther goaded, and in the New-
York Evening Post, appeared a kind of official communica-
tion to this effect. “ We are desired to state'-*hat the Union
Course has not been for some time past under the direction
of the association, they having assigned their Lease in it to
Mr. Cadwallader R. Golden, formerly of Lansingburgh, who
has the whole control of it,”
It is to be regretted when gentlemen make assertions in the
public prints that they would not confine themselves to truth.
That they ever assigned their lease or interest to me is not a
fact, they promised to do so, but broke that promise, which
has been the origin of all misunderstanding And as to its
not being under their control, it was as much so this last Oc-
tober as it was last May, or any period during the time that
either myself or Mr. Moore have acted. It was settled at the
time that I took charge of it, that the Proprietor or Manager
should advertise in his own name, and he did so in both May
and October 1829, it is true that last Spring 1830, the adver-
tisement was given out by the association, which was occa-
sioned in consequence of the unpleasant difference which
arose in October 1829, between them and me and their then
intention and attempt, to repossess the ground, but after Mr.
Moore assumed the management last May it was adjusted
and settled, that the Manager should advertise, in future as
heretofore and he was expected and urged to do so by an
influential member in July last, but there was never any di-
rection of the Racing during its performance assumed byAN EXPOSE.
35
the Proprietor; in this respect the Club have always had con-
trol have appointed judges &c. have appointed their own
Treasurer, to receive their Subscriptions and have conse-
quently held the master key of control, the funds, and in
the present iastance locked them up beyond the reach of the
Manager, owing to which, and to their withholding them the
sport has been brought to a stand, and they now come for-
ward and assert their want of control, thereby to shake the
odium off their shoulders, where it truly ought to rest, and
and impose it upon the Manager.
Had they through their treasurer, (who hasbeen a promi-
nent actor in this scene,) come forward and made the usual
collection of the F all subscription, from those members from
whom it was due, in October, 1829, brought forward the
balance in hand of the last Spring subscriptions, refunded
the manager the 135 dollars which he was in advace at the
second meeting in May 1829, paid over to him the 50 dol-
lars officiously received from the Fulton Ferry in October
1829, and the 50 dollars and 25 dollars received from the
Fulton and Catharine Ferries in May 1830, which four last
enumarafed sums are of right the managers own money,
apart from any subscription, the races would have gone on,
and the purses been as promptly paid ; as the cups were de-
livered with 150 dollars added to each which the maiiager
gave extra, on his own responsibility, but the manager could
not be expected to make good the ivhole of the purses from his
resources and perquisites,'while the association were refusing
to contribute, their treasurer refusing to collect, withholding
what he had in hand, and even Cabbaging ever y odd and end
intended as little donations to the course. Couf'd the manager
be expected to pay the whole of the Purses to be given at the
first meeting from his private funds or resources, while the as-
sociation were refusingto make good Jrom the annual subscrip-
tion, or in any other way, their proportion of the purses to be
given at the second meeeting ? It is true that he did so the
previous Fall, no less true, that he paid more than his share
in May 1S30, and because he refused to be saddled with the
whole bnrthen in October 1830, he is condemned. He had
already paid (as will be seen by the statement given in the
sequel not only three times the sum given by the club as their
subscription for purse money, but also more by 2,555 dollars
towards purses than thrice the amountfurnished by the associ-
ation ; consequently more by that amount than he could be
called upon for, in conformity with either the letter or spirit
of his compact, here it was time to stop, nevertheless, at this
crisis, so far from wishing to pocket any thing the propietor
was ready to sacrifice the interest of the whole capital invested36
AN EXPOSE*
and openly declared on the ground, that he was willing and
would cheerfully deliver over all he had received for admis-
sion to the course. Could he do morel
And here exists the unprcidented circumstance of Mr. Sharp
continuing to officiate as Treasurer, where no longer a mem-
ber of the club, for having in May 1830, discontinued his
subscription, (as appears by the list of subscribers furnished
by himself,) he ceased to be a member. Although, in speaking
of the association, I am constrianed to use such general terms,
as in a literal sense embraces all the members, yet such is
neither my wish or intention, for I well know there are many
who diapprove of what has been done, several who are alto-
gether iguorant of the merits, and others who never interfere
or intermeddle with the concern further than paying their an-
nual subscription when called upon. To such gentlemen I
respectfully tender an exemption from all censure, and every'
charge which I have set forth. There is, however, a coalition
of something like five or six, who from time to time have ar-
rogated the management and contioul of the institution, and
are designated by the self-assumed appellation of1‘ the club.”
At these men I fearlessly declare that I solely point what I
have said ; it was these men and their measures, that prior
to May 1829, brought the Union Course and New-York Turf
to the low ebb which at that date I found it; who by arbitrary
measures and a monopoly of all direction, reduced the sub-
scription list, kept many from the club meetings, and drove
numbers from the course ; and the same men, with measures
equally arbitrary, have at this day brought the sport to a
stand.
But it has been alledged in justification of this unprece-
dented proceeding and persecution set on foot and kept up to
this day, that by my letters of the 10th and 13th of May,
I had insulted the members of “ the club ” These letters
were penned subsequent to the resolution not. to assign,
therefore could in no way influence that decision. That they
were pointed and severe is not to be denied ; but being re-
turned to me, there the matter at least on their part ought to
have stopped. On the other hand, let me ask if they were
not called for ? did not the injustice exercised toward me, and
the wrong I had endured, draw out the first, the inattention it
met with, and the unjust course iS the club” were persisting
in towards the proprietor in the face of the pledge I had
given while acting manager the last October meeting, and
about to pursue in relation to the owners of horses then on
the ground produce the second.
Did not 1 after having been once denied the consideration
pledged, and for which I had expended both time and money,AN EXPOSE.
S7
remonstrate against this breach of promise, made to me by
the unanimous vote and plighted honor of “ the Club” in
place of breaking off at once all connection and shutting up
the Course, make a second appeal to their sense of justice
with no better success. Was I after having made every ef-
fort to obtain by solicition, that which I was entitled to de-
mand as a right, to^ slt^own in passive, servile, submission ?
to be laughed at as their obsequious tool and dupe ; without
daring to exhibit resentment, or indignation at this outrage ?
Certainly not! And it was with intent of making known to
them the light in which I viewed their conduct, and rousing
their feelings to a sense of the injustice they were about
to exercise towards owners of horses ; and of my wrongs
that I transmitted those letters. Yes, I did rouse their feel-
ings, but not such as are the tenants of generous, manly
brests ; equally prone to redress as to resent an injury
revenge was let loose ; all that I had in good faith done, res-
ting thus far upon their honour, all my exertions to support
and promote the Turf, were disregarded, and thrust under
foot ; my ruin was decreed, rather than not effect which, the
course was to be destroyed and the institution broken up;
the encouragement held out to Breeders to be withdrawn ;
premiums, the long looked for reward of owners and trainers
to be withheld. Yes ! rather than not gratify this unjust re-
sentment, the proprietors of Blood Stock generally were to be
made to suffer, and the very object of the association, “ The
Improvement of the Breed of Horses” sapped. All present
or interested were to feel its effects ; but in order to amuse
the attention of the thoughtless, stifle enquiry, cause public
opinion to flow through a false channel, and impress upon
the minds of Sportsmen that the Union Course was denied
them, the expedient of setting on foot a collection to be run
over the Dutchess course, was resorted to.
In giving the foregoing narrative, I have made few com-
ments beyond what explanation requires, and if I have in-
dulged in invective, the feelings of a man deeply wounded,
and wantonly oppressed, must plead my license. I now offer
it as a minute, yet straight forward relation of facts, which I
pledge myself to support, and challenge contradiction. If I
have erroneously or unintentionally injured any one, I will be
found ready to make reparation; and I am equally prepared
to answer the call of any gentleman.
Gentlemen of the Turf.
I have given in the preceeding pages, a history of all that
has taken place in relation to my compact with the New-York
Association, and the management of the Union Course sinceAN EXPOSE.
t has been under the direction of Mr. Moore or myself*
My principle inducement to enter upon that undertaking was
to lift the establishment ; to raise it from the depressed state
to which it had sunk in 1828, and in which I found it in May,
1829, and place it on a respectable and permament footing ;
and had I met with the aid which I stipulated for, I am con-
fident that I should have fully accorhpitMSHhe object, not-
withstanding I had much to encounter. An inclosed Course
was a novel thing, the prejudice of the people was to be
combated, the mob was to assuaged and resisted ; yet in no
other way it had been proved, than by inclosing the ground,
and exacting a sum far admission could sufficient funds be
obtained to promote racing upon such a scale, as would induce
gentlemen to encounter the expense of training horses, or
afford a market, and certain profits to breeders of Bood
Stock. The subscription of Members was not to be relied
upon as sufficient ; extra calls had been made upon thlem
more than once, in order to clear off arrearages, they were
tired of being thus taxed. The Institution had again got in
debt, the track wanted to be put in order, the club house en-
quired repairs ; an entire new stand for Spectators was wan-
ted, and not a dollar to do it with. The purses given were
small, making only an aggregate of 1000 dollars in May and
the like sum in October; and yet that scanty appropriation
could no longer be met. Such was the state of things when
I took charge of the course. At the first Races which were
held under my direction in May, 1829,1 gave as encourage-
ment to the owners, breeders, and trainers of horses 2500
dollars to be run for, in place of the bare 1000 dollars, which
they had been accustomed to receive. It was my intention
to have made other and more extensive improvements than
those which you have seen. It was my purpose to have en-
larged and improved the Club House, to have built commo-
dious stables, to have made a handsome addition to that part
of the Stand set apart for the# Jockey Club, to have erected
a neat and appropriate stand for Ladies, contiguous to the
starting place, with a spacious saloon, and other conveniences
attached ; had brought my materials on the ground, and had
actually began the work, when alas, some of the leading
members of the association, actuated by that unfortunate
and unaccountable policy which has been the bane of all
good, destroyed all confidence and cordiality, and gave a
check to my operations ; refused on their pari to yield the
consideration which had been promised, and for which I had
undertaken and performed my task ; what that promise was,
I have exhibited in proof under the hand writing of the pro-
peunder of it; what was to be expected from me in return
I have also shewn, and without argument I submit my case
to you, and will abide your decision.AN EXPOSE.
39
Something has been said in the public prints, respecting
the regulations of ihe cour e, such as “ the Union Course
has been under very bad management for a year or two past.’5
And again, “ Mr. Golden must be now sensible of his total
incapacity to manage the course.5’ I know not who the
writers of these unliandsome, and I may with some propriety
add, ungenerous remarks are, but one thing I am certain of,
that they either know nothing ot the the merits, or wilfully
pervert their knowledge. If with the assistance of only 945
.dollarsreceived from the club, during the years 1829 and 1830,
in the shape of their subscription, the manager or proprietor,
being saddled with the interest of 11,700 dollars, the capital
invested, has contrived to pay all the incidental expenses, for
repairs, advertising, and wages of attendants, averaging 100
dollars per day, during each days racing, being for 16 purse
days, and 7 days taken up by matches and sweepstakes, and
an addition for purses which have been run for, and actually
paid the sum of 6335 dollars, without any charge against the
club, is bad management then the man&^r ought to be con-
demned.
The object of this institution was as its title imports, an
<{ Association for the improvement in the breed of horses.5’
How was this to be effected but by offering premiums for
their production ? That in this shape l have paid more than
double what has been given by any of my predecessors during
the same period, must be admitted. In this respect I am
proud to be able to say, 1 have acquited myself to the breed-
ers and trainers of blood stock, thus I have kept sight of the
object for which the Association was formed, and thus I feel
that I have discharged my duty to the turf generally.
What then means this yelping about management 1 these
babblers are giving tongue on the back track.
Let me again ask, under what prior management, or under
whose previous direction you horsemen ever had 2500 dol-
lars given you to run for in one* Spring, 1250 dollars the en-
suing October, and would have had another 1,250 dollars
that same month, had the quota of the club (625 dollars) been
furnished. The May following 2085 dollars were given in
purses, (including a contribution of 35 dollars towards a sub-
scription stake) to which there would have been an addition
of 450 dollars, had my wishes and intentions been complied
with, (as is evident from my letter of the 13th of May 1830,)
and the Treasurer of the club not again held back. And had
I been supported in October last, there would even then have
been two meetings held with 1250 dollars given at each, be-
sides my extra 500 dollars in cups and cash, which would
have made 3,000 dollars in that month alone ; which collec-40
AN EXPOSE.
tively would have made the sum that ought to have been
given in pursuance of my plan, and which would have been
given during the two years of 1829 and 1830, had the Asso-
ciation done their part,........................$10,535
As it now is, there has actually been paid inclusive
of the cups, -	-	-	-	6,335
Less than what you would have had, had the con-
dition of my agreement with the club, been on -----------
their part performed, by.....................4,200
Of the amount which has actually been paid in pur-
ses during my management or that of Mr. Moore,
There has been received through Mr. Sharp the
Treasurer, including donations made by the two
Ferries as follows :—
May 1829. From the subscription^
of the club towards l dAQ(.
the purses of the f *
purses
second meeting, j
As donations from the 1
two Ferries,	)
75
565
Oct. 1S29. From the subscription of the'] '
club, as a partial compensa- j
for the loss sustained, in con- y 180
sequence of not affording a j
second meeting.	J
May 1830. Received towards the purses )
of the second meeting,	J
$6,335
Total sum Received, including donations
of the Ferries,
From which deduct as the prerequisite of
the course, viz :
Received from the two Ferries as j
above, by Mr. Sharp in May > $75
1829,	J
Received do. and retained by )
do. in October 1829.	J
Received do. do. do. May 1830. 75
,145
200
Gives the actual sum which the club have furnisned
out of their subscription, -----	945
Which deducted gives the amount actually paid by ------------
the manager out of his own resources towards
the purses alone, ------	$5,390AN EXPOSE.
41
Thus it is shown that the club in place of making good
according to the compact, one fourth of even this curtailed
sum of 6335 dollars, they have not paid even one-sixth;
nevertheless, have the modesty to talk about the delinquency
of the manager, who has actually come forward with nearly
six-fcevenths of the whole purse money, when by agreement
he was only bound to pay three-fourths.
I have shown yon gentlemen, that during these terms or
months, in which the races were held, viz., the Spring and
Fall of 1829, and the Spring of 1830, forlast October with
the exception of the cups, nothing was given in the way of
purses, that 6,335 dollars have been paid to you, and of this
sum that the cluo furnished from their subscription only 945
dollars, after deducting 200 dollars the amount of the Ferry
donations received by their Treasurer.
There have been during the above time 16 days of purse
racing, including those on which the cups were given, besides
7 days taken up by matches and sweepstakes, making alto-
gether 23 days racing, the expenses of the course during
which time, for advertising, repairs and attendants, averages
100 dollars per day, equal to -	-	-	- S 2,300
To which addin place of rent, the interest of 11,700
dollars of capital for two years, -	1,638
Also the sum actually paid in purses, ~	6,334
Makes the sum total of disbursements, -	- $10,273
From which deduct the trifling sum received as the
subscription of the club, -	-	-	.	945
Clives the sum which the manager has actually dis- --------
bnrsed from his own funds or resources, -	- $ 9,328
If from this last sum, is further deducted the dona-
tions made by the Ferries, -	-	-	200
Leaves the sum which he will have disbursed with-
out any assistance, except what he received for ------------
tickets of admission,	-	$9,128
It will be remembered that my proposition made to the as-
sociation which they accepted, and which consequently forms
the compact, says, “I will pay 1250 doliaas on the 1st of
May, and the like snm on the 1st of October annually, to be
tun for three successive days during the early part of each
month, in three purses of 600, 400, and 250 dollars. Heats
of 4,3, and two miles. The foregoing to constitute purses
for the first Spring and Fall meetings, I will use my exertions
to increase the number of subscribers, and whatever the ag-
gregate of their subscriptions may be, not exceeding 1500 dol-
lars. I will add a corresponding sum, therewith to be formed42
AN EXPOSE’
into six appropriate purses, three of which to be run for as
above, the latter part of May, and the like the latter part of
October, to constitute the Second Spring and Fall meetings.
The subscription of each member, not to be less than 12 dol-
lars, and any amount subscribed beyond 1500 dollars to be
at my disposal.
The rent of the ground I will also pay provided it does not
exceed 300 dollars or thereabout. Thus far I shall consider
myself bound to make advances, and no fartherW But apart
from the written proposal, and when the matter was discussed
at the meeting of October 1828, it was perfectly understood,
and settled, that there should in future be two meetings held
both Spring and Fall. That the proprietor or his representa-
tive was to pay 1250 dollars as purre money for the first meet-
ings and the association and he to pay each an equal half of a
similar sum to be run for at the second meeting, thus the
spirit of the compact clearly implies that the proprietor or
manager, should pay three-fourths, and the association one-
ibtirlh of the whole purse money, and that 2,500 dollars
should be furnished in both May and October, which full sum
was paid at the commencement in May 1829, but at no month
of May or October afterwards, as has already been shown,
in consequence of the association not coming forward with
their proportion.
Now as the manager was to pay only three-fourths of the
whole purse money, or in other words, three times as much
as the association subscription amounted to, and as they have
only paid, -	-	-	-	-	- $ 945
Thrice this sum to be paid by the manager,
would be,................................2,835
Making together,............................3,780
But the whole sum which actually has been paid in
purses is, -------	6,335
From which deduct the sum advanced by the
Association, -----	945
And thrice that sum to bo added by the man-
ager, -------	2,835
Making together, ------	3,780
Which deduct, gives as advanced by the manager,
more than he could of right, or in the spirit of the ---
compact be called upon for9 the sum of, -	- ©2,555
And yet an imputation of delinquency is endeavored to be
cast upon him? by the very men who are themselves defauFAN EXPOSE*
rd
^Tis a very good world that we live in,
To°spead or to lend or to give in,
But to beg or to borrow, or get a man’s own
Tis the very worst world sir, that ever was known.”
I think that I may venture to say, that I have at length in-
controvertably shown, where originated, and out of what has
grown, those dissensions which have for a time put a stop to
the sports of the Union Course.
1st. and principally the refusal of44 the Club,” to carry into
execution, their resolution to assign all their interest passed
in meeting regularly convened October 1828.
2d. The reception by their Treasurer of a subscription be-
low the minimum, which I stipulated for, and forcing it upon
the manager.
3d. The seizing upon, and retaining monies, the perquisites,
and right of the manager.
4th. The failure on the part of the Association to pay their
quota of the purse, money in the first instance, and ultimately
declining the payment of anything, thereby imposing the
whole burthen upon the manager, which he was, no longer
able ov willing to sustain.
If l am not much mistaken, after you gentlemen who have
capital invested in blood sioch^ ivho in reality belong to the
turf, have its welfare at heart, and have an interest in its sup-
port, have seen these statements, which I assure you are cor-
rect, you will give me some small share of credit for what I
have done, and for the sums which through my exertions
have been paid to the owners of horses since the 1st of May
1829. And will take into account the sacrifice that has been
made to support the turf. That you will evince too much
manhood to combine 44 with the many” against one, and too
high a sense of justice to sanction, much less to join in the
vindictive measures which have been put in operation ; all for
what 1 Because I had the spirit to assert my right, to espouse
thecause of the proprietors of blood stock, and protest against
withholding the premiums, which those interested in racing
establishment, had a claim to in expectancy.
It was for you, gentlemen who have Capital invested in
Turf Stock, that I have toiled, and it is for you that I am
still willing to labor. The Course has always been open to
you andT am authorized in saying that it is at the service of a
new Club, should one be formed, under the direction of
Gentlemen chosen from their own body, subject to rules
and Regulations enacted in their Club Room, and ap-
proved of by a majority of Members duly convened, at
such place, by such notice and in such manner as will allow
each Member a voice; but the late association has latterly
been controlled by a certain few I might say a trio who week44
AN EXPOSE*
ly meet for the benefit of u mine host75 of the four mile house*,
and these in Holy-day caucus say? such things shall be, such
is our sovereign will, who take upon themselves to put up,
and pull down who, and what they please, a majority of
whom have never advanced the interest of the Turf beyond
the payment of a slender annual subscription of 10 dollars,
and one or two of the most officious have not even done that
for the past year. It never was the wish of the Proprietor,
or Manager to dictate, ought in relation to the Racing de-
partment, nor is it now, and the Regulating of the Police
of the ground,1 has always been an irksome and painful duty-
It now remains with you, and particularly with the Gentle-
man of Long Island to say ; whether you will have the Union
course broke up, and carried to Poughkeepsie whether you
will submit to be treated as Punches Puppets and be
made to dance for the benefit of the Gentleman from
Dutchess, when ever it pleases him to pull the wires ?
whether you will allow yourselves to be tossed about, in
leading straigs mere creatuses of convenience? whether
you will permit Long Island, the mother of the New-
York Turf to be abandoned and supplanted? And whe-
ther you will countenance this work of injustice, and I
might add of ingratitude ?
I remain gentlemen, your devoted
and very humble servant
Union Course, Jamaica, Cadwallader R. Golden*
Queens County, Feb. 24,183L
ERATTA.
In 1st page of Contents, line 18 from bottom, read, Octo-
ber 1829, in place of 1839 ; and in line 17 from bottom, read
purses of 600 dollars, in place of 500 dollars.
In 2d page of Contents, line 10 from top, read, letters ad-
dressed by C. R. C.
Page 6th line 5 from top, read, Union Course, in place of
Union House.
Page 8th line 3 from top, read, given by him, in place of
given to him.
Page 23 line 2 from top, read, what of right, in place of
what right.
Page 37 line 6 from top, read, solicitation, in place of soli-
tation.