Ansel Williamson

Ansel Williamson was an African-American trainer who made significant contributions to horse racing in the 19th century. Born a slave in Virginia, he learned the art of horse management before the Civil War. After gaining his freedom, Williamson trained many successful racehorses, including Aristides, the horse that won the first Kentucky Derby in 1875. His achievements in the racing industry were later recognized with his induction into the US National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1998.