Emperor of Norfolk

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Emperor of Norfolk (1885–1907) was an American champion Thoroughbred racehorse and a member of the Hall of Fame. Known as the "California Wonder" for his big size and strong hindquarters, he was by the great sire Norfolk out of the mare Marian. He was bred by Theodore Winters and raced for Lucky Baldwin.

Racing record and highlights: Emperor of Norfolk started 29 times and won 21 races, earning $79,290. As a two-year-old in 1887, he won several major races and was named American Co-Champion 2-Year-Old Colt. In 1888, at age three, he won 9 of 11 starts, including the Brooklyn Stakes and the American Derby, earning the title American Co-Champion 3-Year-Old Colt.

Retirement and stud career: He retired from racing due to a leg injury after winning the Sheridan Stakes and began his career at stud at Rancho Santa Anita. As a sire, Emperor of Norfolk produced many stakes winners; his best son Americus became a leading sire, with descendants such as Mumtaz Mahal, Mahmoud, Nasrullah, Royal Charger, and Tudor Minstrel shaping many modern Thoroughbreds.

Death and legacy: Emperor of Norfolk died on December 15, 1907, at the age of 22 and was buried at Baldwin’s ranch, later moved to Santa Anita Park. He was inducted into the United States Racing Hall of Fame in 1988.