Rockford Speedway equipment and memorabilia goes on the chopping block in online auction

LOVES PARK, Ill. (WTVO) — The era of the Rockford Speedway is winding to a close, with equipment and memorabilia from the iconic raceway going up for auction.

The Rockford Speedway hosted racing events for 76 years before its closure October 28th, 2023.

On Wednesday, May 22nd, Steffes Auctions will hold a preview day , from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for all the available inventory, which includes the grandstands and bleacher seats, sound equipment, scoreboard, fencing, suites, concession equipment, coolers, tables, playground equipment, signage and photos.

The auction will be held in four “rings” which will take place online between May 27th and June 3rd.

The Rockford Speedway opened in 1948. Hugh and Jody Deery took ownership in 1966. After Hugh died, Jody ran it until she passed away in 2022, at the age of 97.

Her children sold the Speedway and the surrounding land, including the Forest Hills Lodge , to a developer. The Deery family said development along Route 173 spurred their decision to sell.

The Forest Hills Lodge boasted a Wild West Town facade, which was saved and forms part of a Western feature at Roscoe’s Historic Auto Attractions, located at 13825 Metric Road.

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