The Milwaukee Mile

The Milwaukee Mile stands as the oldest operating motor speedway in the world, dating back to 1903 for auto racing and 1876 for horse racing. Located in West Allis, Wisconsin on the Wisconsin State Fair Park grounds, this historic circuit has hosted auto races continuously for over a century, pausing only during World War II. The track has witnessed the evolution of American motorsport from its earliest days to the modern era, making it a living museum of racing heritage.

Historical Development

The circuit began as a horse racing track in the 19th century before hosting its first automobile race in 1903, when William Jones won a 5-lap speed contest. Early races faced challenges due to the track's original design for horses. The dirt oval was paved with asphalt in 1954, marking a significant modernization. Further improvements came in 1967 with the construction of a dedicated pit road. The track has maintained its basic configuration throughout its history while receiving periodic updates to meet changing safety standards and racing needs.

Track Specifications

The Milwaukee Mile features a simple yet challenging oval layout measuring 1.015 miles (1.633 km) in length. The track maintains consistent 9-degree banking in all four turns, with gentler 2.5-degree banking on both the front and back straightaways. This configuration creates a distinctive racing experience that rewards precise driving and setup. Inside the main oval sits a road course measuring either 0.8 miles (1.28 km) or 1.8 miles (2.897 km) depending on the configuration. The facility accommodates approximately 35,000-37,000 spectators in its grandstands and bleachers.

Racing Legacy

The Milwaukee Mile has hosted races sanctioned by virtually every major American racing organization. AAA and USAC stock car events began in 1950, with Don White securing 14 victories at the track. Championship car racing started in the 1930s and continued under various sanctioning bodies including CART and IndyCar. NASCAR arrived in 1984 with the Busch Late Model Sportsman Series (now Xfinity Series) and expanded its presence from 1993 to 2009. The track also served as home to the NFL's Green Bay Packers for several games each season from 1934 to 1951, including the 1939 NFL Championship Game.

Notable Drivers and Moments

Racing legends have left their mark on the Milwaukee Mile throughout its history. Barney Oldfield set track records in both 1905 and 1910. A.J. Foyt demonstrated his exceptional talent in 1965 when he earned pole position using a backup dirt car hastily prepared for pavement racing. The illustrious roster of winners includes Ralph DePalma, Jim Clark, the Unser and Andretti families, Darrell Waltrip, Rusty Wallace, Jeff Gordon, Scott Dixon, and Hélio Castroneves. Each victory at this historic venue carries special significance in the racing world.

Recent Developments

After a period of uncertainty, the Milwaukee Mile has experienced a revival. The NTT IndyCar Series returned to the track in 2024 after a nine-year absence, reconnecting the venue with its open-wheel racing heritage. Track safety improvements continue to be implemented, ensuring this historic circuit meets modern standards. As racing returns to the Milwaukee Mile, a new chapter begins in the story of America's oldest speedway, preserving its legacy for future generations of motorsport fans.