Churchill Downs' iconic Twin Spires have watched over the track since 1895

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- When you hear Churchill Downs, what do you picture in your mind?

It’s likely the Twin Spires, icons of Churchill Downs, of horse racing, of Louisville.

"When you look at (Churchill Down), the twin spires are the Nike swoosh, our signature brand," said Darren Rogers, director of media services at Churchill Downs.

Those ornamental towers were a last-minute addition when 24-year-old Louisville architect Joseph Baldez designed a new grandstand which opened in 1895. Baldez reportedly thought the plain roof needed something extra.

"Awe-inspiring, beautiful, something people want to capture and have that keepsake when they leave Churchill Downs," Derby Museum Curator Chris Goodlett said in describing the spires.

Several years ago, the architect's great grandchildren visited the track and got a close look at the blueprints. They said Baldez never came to the track to see his work.

"He was afraid the twin spires would collapse into the grandstand," Rogers said. "He was fearful of it when he put it together."

The spires have stood the test of time. They’ve have had a couple renovations to replace wood and install modern lighting and they have watched over major grandstand renovations at Churchill Downs.

Some people lament that the spires are not the tallest part anymore, but the addition of suites and balconies on both sides have, in some way, made them more accessible.

"Fans can get right up close and personal, and people often do that," Rogers said. "I think it's the most popular selfie shot for people who live in Louisville."

The spires were used in branding before branding was a term.

"Baldez would say that, later in life, Matt Winn told him, 'Joe, you know you're going to be known for them.'"

The next change the spires will oversee is a complete redesign of the paddock to be complete before the 150th Kentucky Derby.

"I think it's the single most transformational thing you'll see here, and those Twin Spires will be a big part of it," Rogers said.

In fact, they'll be the centerpiece and the first thing you see when you enter the track.