The Kentucky Derby Museum’s replicas of the famous Churchill Downs twin spires are undergoing renovations. The first spire was removed from the museum roof facing Central Avenue on Saturday, July 9th. Its re-installment will take place on July 16th and at that time the second spire will be removed for repairs. The project will be completed after the second spire is re-installed on Saturday, July 23rd.
The original “baby spires,” modeled after Churchill Downs’ famous twin spires were first installed atop the Kentucky Derby Museum on September 19, 1984. E. Verner Johnson from Boston, Massachusetts designed the replica spires and Tec-Fab, INC of Campbellsville, KY completed the initial construction. Each spire weighs 600 lbs and stands at 26 ft. 1in. tall.
The Kentucky Derby Museum spires were replicated for ornamentation. They serve as the crowning symbols of Derby history and flair that the Kentucky Derby Museum strives to bring to its visitors. The original twin spires, synonymous with Churchill Downs were considered an afterthought by Louisville architect Joseph Baldez. Today the spires that rest atop Churchill Downs’ grandstand and the Kentucky Derby Museum are one of the most notable symbols in horseracing.
Spires renovation under way at the Kentucky Derby Museum
