Nearby: Historical Marker To Be Unveiled at Heidelberg Raceway

History buffs and car enthusiasts will have plenty to do this weekend when  to honor its rich legacy.

The dedication of the blue and yellow Pennsylvania Historical Marker located next to the  at Raceway Plaza will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday and include state and local dignitaries along with racing experts.

Heidelberg officials have worked in recent year to have a historical marker erected at the old raceway after learning the last ever Big Top circus in the country closed its tents in the track’s infield. The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus had its final show under the famous Big Top at the racetrack on July 16, 1956 before sports arenas or convention center were commonly used.

The track closed in 1973, its stands and press box were shipped to Pittsburgh’s Pennsylvania Motor Speedway in Imperial and big box retailers moved into the open space.

Heidelberg Raceway was finally given historical status late last year and .

Some of the speakers for Sunday afternoon’s unveiling include Andrew Masich of the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission, David Kohler of the Pittsburgh Circle Track Club and Steven Witlock of the NASCAR Members Club.

The Circle Track Club will also bring vintage race cars that once sped around Heidelberg Raceway.

Anyone who wants to attend is asked to park at the  or Raceway Shopping Plaza.

This story was first published on Chartiers Valley Patch.

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