Don't they just turn left? : NASCAR's heritage race tracks and preserving stock car culture

Abstract

This thesis examines the hypothesis that early NASCAR race tracks play an important role in the history of the United States and that they need to be evaluated and recognized as such. This thesis also identifies the heritage and traditions which are a part of the collective stock car culture and the ways in which heritage race tracks are the most significant places for this culture. In order to fully understand the cultural contribution of stock car racing, after an introduction to the history of stock car racing, a brief exploration of the formative years of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing follows. This thesis explores the Southern roots of stock car racing and the ways in which NASCAR moved the sport from a Southern regional pastime to a national sport. It also examines the people and traditions that come together at a culturally significant space, the race track, and why preserving these race tracks is essential for stock car culture to thrive. These heritage race tracks are the pivotal element for NASCAR’s cultural continuity and provide excellent examples for future preservation efforts focusing on the heritage of stock car racing outside of NASCAR. The research for this thesis examined three tracks within the larger framework of the development of stock car racing. Martinsville Speedway, in Martinsville, Virginia; Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina, and Rockingham Speedway in Rockingham, North Carolina represent the best preservation opportunities for heritage race tracks and were chosen for their close connection to NASCAR’s heritage. Heritage race tracks are dynamic resources and require a preservation approach which can successfully address both the individual race tracks and the cultural significance of stock car racing heritage. An exploration of the available preservation methods to determine the best options for heritage race tracks is included in this thesis. Research for this thesis concludes that the best preservation option for NASCAR’s heritage race tracks is the development of a stock car themed national heritage area. A national heritage area offers a comprehensive approach to preservation, providing preservation resources not only to major components, like NASCAR’s heritage tracks, but also to the other elements of stock car heritage in the region.