Greyhound Museum
After hearing of the horrendous revelations concerning the "Seaham Scandal" and the unlawful killing of innocent greyhounds, described in one BBC report as an 'Open Secret' running throughout our sport, I can confirm my own belief that a dog racing museum should be set up forthwith, with all future profits given back to the greyhounds themselves in the form of welfare and the re-homing of retired ex-racing dogs.
As a keen collector of greyhound racing memorabilia, I remain in full support of the Greyhound Racing Historical Society in their ultimate aim to create a modern greyhound museum based here in the United Kingdom.
Prominent greyhound historians have formed this Society to build a further foundation on which to promote and perpetuate the memory of famous coursing and track racing greyhounds of English and Irish descent.
Our desire is for all generations to actively participate and benefit from our own extensive research into the history of our sport, in the safe knowledge that many collections of memorabilia previously uncatologued could be housed under one roof as a permanent home and showpiece for everyone to enjoy. Many original artifacts and photographs were given by the owners and enthusiasts, much of which has been collected by people who have since passed away. This leaves my colleagues and I with a great moral responsibility to fulfil their wishes and unselfish desire to establish a lasting monument to the famous greyhounds and people associated with them.
Our objective is to show exhibits including films of old classic races, paintings, sculptures, various literature, old dog racecards, newspapers comprising from now defunct publications, famous photographs of greyhounds, owners, trainers, kennel staff, photo finishes, cigarette and postcards, NGRC calendars etc. in the aim of creating an unparalelled greyhound libary, the facilities of which we hope to make available to all who wish to use it. The tangents are enumerable, to include the famous history of greyhound coursing and racing and the transition from course to track.
The Opening and participation in this Greyhound Museum would not only show people's interest in the world of greyhound racing, but would allow them the opportunty to expand their knowledge of the sport and breed by meeting people who also shared their enthusiasm. It is hoped in time the Society would invite gallery talks by famous trainers, veterinary surgeons etc. and be able to hold special exhibition previews for Museum members, to which all would be invited.
This proud tradition of our English and Irish heritage is too valuable to defer any longer and we really do have a strong moral obligation to recognise the achievements of our late friends and animals! (extracts taken and adapted by kind permission from the Chairman's address.)
If you would like more information on the Greyhound Museum Project please contact me.
