There is much to learn about the history of Savage, MN. But, this river town’s main claim to fame is Dan Patch.

In 1902, M.W. Savage, a prominent Minneapolis businessman, built a mosque-like horse stable and a fantastic half-mile covered racing track. In the same year, he acquired the famous pacing horse, Dan Patch. On September 8 th, 1906 he broke the record by pacing the mile at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in only 1:55! He became the only harness horse in race history to break the two minute barrier 35 times.

Dan Patch was a crowd pleaser that loved the cheers and the camera. He was an athletic hero in his time.

Savage, who had a special relationship with Dan, amassed a fortune by using the horse in his branding for his feed and veterinary supply company, International Stock Foods. The concept of athletic endorsements was born!

When Dan died in 1916, Savage died 32 hours later. It was an untimely death, said to have been caused by a broken heart.

Learn more about Dan Patch here:

http://www.danpatch.com/default.asp?id=2