Did you know that the Nelson Montgomery house, located on Old Troy Road, once had a race track on the property?

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Nelson Montgomery raised horses and enjoyed racing them at the old fairgrounds on St. Louis Street in Edwardsville. His daughter, Phoebe Montgomery, was known as an excellent horse woman and won several prizes. After Nelson died, Phoebe and her mother moved to a house on St. Louis Street to be close to the race track at the fairgrounds. Phoebe owned her own race horse, Joe Joker, shown in the photo here.

Article continues after sponsor message

Both photos courtesy of the Madison County Historical Society

Photos:

Nelson Montgomery’s farm

“Joe Joker” Phoebe Montgomery’s race horse

Prefer RiverBender on Google
Copyright 2026 Riverbender.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

 

More like this:

Scenic River Bluff Trails Create Unique Challenge for Endurance Runners
May 15, 2026
Local Playwright and Actors Create One-Act Show About Race in America
Jun 15, 2026
Alton Police Charge Missouri Man With Child Solicitation, Grooming
Jun 13, 2026
Gov. Pritzker Breaks Ground on New All Abilities Activity Hub
May 27, 2026
Ali Hiller, Jamie Anderson Named District 7 Principals
May 27, 2026