Racehorse name from early 1900s

Question
This may not be your expertise, but I will proceed anyway.  I recently received an old tack box from 1901.  The name on the inside is scratched and I can not read it, however on the top of the box there is a gold plate with the name Belding's Perfection.  I am assuming that this is the horse's name however I am unable to find any information on this horse through basic internet searching.  I was wondering if you knew of any resources available for researching racehorses from this time period or if you had ever run across any similar names that may share the lineage.  This item was passed down through my family which has always lived in the state of Maryland.  My guess would be that it was a local horse however I have no true way of knowing.  Let me know if you have any suggestions.  Thanks, Ben

Answer
Hi Ben:

I'm afraid I cannot be of much help.  Something from that long ago will be difficult to trace, especially if the horse in question was not an accomplished competitor.  You might try the Maryland Horse Breeders Association in Timonium, MD (410-252-2100).  I believe they have some research facilities, and they may have an old sire book which may give you some clues.  They might also offer some other suggestions on how to proceed.

Brad Adler
www.superthoroughbred.com