Research for this story brought to light, once again, the uniqueness of Rohnerville's past. Theodore Dwight Felt, physician and surgeon from Massachusetts, came to California during the gold rush to seek his fortune, but like many others, he soon realized there was little possibility of a real bonanza. Here he took a claim, built a residence, and established his practice about 1851. In the spring of 1866, the Eel River Jockey Club, under the enthusiastic leadership of Dr. Felt and other ardent horsemen, bought a piece of land from B. F. Jameson and laid out a mile-long race track. The first fair at the Jockey Club's grounds was sponsored by the Humboldt County Agricultural Society in September, 1867.
Man holding horse is unknown.
Charles Perrott seated under horse, Will East, Kimball Hatch and Ed Dougherty. William Wax, photographer. We were fondly hoping that the number of these iniquitous institutions would grow less instead of increasing. There are at present about 35 horses and colts in training here, and we are informed by those who know, that our race course is in as good, if not better condition, than any race track in the state. Salmon Brown, Bridgeville.