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The Indianapolis Motor Speedway was dormant during World War II but experienced a resurgence through the 1950s after it was purchased by Terre Haute businessman Tony Hulman. Several renovations to the track and grounds brought renewed interest to the race. In 1951, WIBC broadcast the 500 live for the first time. Then, in 1957, the 500 Festival debuted and included a parade, square dance on Monument Circle and a ball. In 1959, the festival added the queen contest. Now, the speedway is preparing for another resurgence after the race ran without fans last year because of the pandemic. Last week, IMS announced the race on May 30 will have a capacity limit of about 135,000 spectators. Other events, like The Carb Day and Legends Day concerts, are canceled.
Source: Indiana Historical Society
Credit: The image is courtesy of the Indiana Historic Society and is part of the Bass Photo Co. collection. More images are available at images.indianahistory.org.
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