The Preakness Stakes is the second (and shortest) race of the Triple Crown of American horse racing, which also comprises the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes. The Preakness was established at Pimlico in 1873 and was named after the horse that won the Dinner Party Stakes at the track in its opening year, 1870*. Myron Hieronymous Thomas shares the full History of this Classic.
*www.britannica.com/sports/Preakness-Stakes