If appearances on cigar labels are the criterion, no sport was more popular in the second half of the 19th century, and on into the 20th, than horse racing. That’s no surprise given the importance of the horse in every day life of ranchers, farmers and even city folk. Ever since they were first domesticated, men have competed to see who has the biggest, fastest and strongest horse. Those that won were a source of pride, a pride often flaunted on cigar labels.  Although generic horse racing labels exist, the most popular were those depicting winners of races of all sizes and importance.

Horse Racing

A National Cigar Museum Exhibit 

Illustrations & text © Tony Hyman, All rights reserved



Latest addition November 19, 2012