Twin Spires

Twin Spires

The twin spires atop the grandstands of Churchill Downs exemplify the beauty and elegance of the late nineteenth century architecture. Symbolizing the scintillating Churchill Downs racetrack and the prestigious Kentucky Derby, the Spires remains as an inspiration to horse racing enthusiasts across the globe.

While asked to draw a plan for the Churchill Downs’ new grandstand, Joseph Dominic Baldez - a twenty-four-year-old draftsman - included the Spires to add a striking appearance. The hexagonal twin-towers built in 1895 went under several renovation works in due course of years but the pointed tips are still standing tall as the highest peaks of the ground.

During 2005 $121 million renovation work at the Churchill Downs, the clubhouse was replaced, many comfy suites were added and the famous Twin Spires were refurbished.

Initially, young Baldez had no plan to include the spires; with the progress of construction he realized to add something special for making the grandstand a monument of architectural brilliance.

In spite of many other structures in Louisville, Baldez is remembered even after fifty years of his death for the precious Twin Spires. Sweetly spoken by the former Churchill Downs President Matt J. Winn of him – “Joe when you die there’s one monument that will never be taken down, the Twin Spires”.