This Is Amazing! NASCAR Cup Racing In Hamburg, New York

Western New York has a long history of great auto racing. From Holland Speedway, to Lancaster, Freedom and Ransomville, we are blessed to have great tracks and some fantastic racing!

But did you know, the history of racing in Western New York goes way back to he 1930's?

There is one track in the area that some have dubbed the original "ghost track" of NASCAR racing and it is right here in our backyard!

The Roots of Racing

I had heard a rumor once that NASCAR had a track in Hamburg, New York. More specifically, the track was located on the current sight of the Erie County Fair! What now holds the "12 Best Days of Summer", was the home of auto racing and drew thousands of fans and the top drivers of the day in the 30's and 40's!

The rumor was widespread. In fact, NASCAR enthusiasts even tried to track the history and get some answers.

While some debate the photos in the video above, the fact is that there was an auto racing track in Hamburg.

NASCAR in The Northeast?

Those of us who love NASACR know that the southern portion of the United States is known as the hub for NASCAR. From Charlotte to Daytona, the south is the NASCAR King. However, when you go back an look at the early stages of the sport, you can see some major names were in races right here in Western New York on the Hamburg Fairgrounds.

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According to the NASCAR results from Sunday, August 27th, 1950, some of the biggest names in racing were here! Even the old school car manufacturers were represented such as Nash, Mercury and Oldsmobile!

Erie County Fair Motorsports

The auto racing tradition continues today after decades of various events at The Fairgounds. From monster trucks, to stunt shows and the incredibly popular demolition derby, the Erie County Fair has seen a variety of great events for those who love the automotive thrills!

Check out some of the earliest events in racing that were held during the Erie County Fair!

When I was a kid, my dad would take us to the Erie County Fair to see Joie Chitwood and his Auto Thrill Show! I also remember seeing the motorcycle races on the same track that the horses race on these days!

The 12 Best Days Of Summer 2025

The Erie County Fair will begin on August 6th of this year and there are dozens of great events to look forward to. Not only does the fair have an incredible history of racing, the concerts and live shows are off the charts! Recently the "90's Country Night" was announced staring Tracy Lawrence, Sammy Kershaw and Collin Raye!

This is only one of the many shows to look forward to this summer!