"...When Charles Town opened on December 2, 1933, it was the only winter operating track in America.

Jockey Bill Hartack launched his Hall of Fame career at Charles Town in 1952. He rode 24 winners during the 19- day winter meet. He went on to win 4,277 races, including the Kentucky Derby five times, the Preakness three times and the Belmont once.

In 1960, the Charles Town grandstand and clubhouse were completely enclosed and heated. J. Edgar Hoover was a regular visitor to the track, and on April 27, 1960, John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jackie, made an appearance at a democratic rally during his campaign for Presidency...." Charles Town website