On Dec. 30, Bruce Daniels passed away at the age of 82. The South Harrison Township, N.J., farrier was a leader in the farrier industry, serving in a number of positions for the American Farrier’s Association (AFA) including president, secretary and board member. He was also a several time member of the American Farriers Team.

Daniels loved to share his vast knowledge as a dedicated clinician, judge, instructor, mentor, artist and author. In 1992, he was part of the first class of farriers who were inducted into the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame.

Below, several colleagues and friends share their memories of Daniels as a colorful storyteller, generous teacher and lifelong mentor.

Artistic Talent Evident In All Facets Of His Life

I don’t remember exactly where or when I met Bruce Daniels or the date of his joining the AFA. It had to be within a year or 2 of when the AFA was chartered in 1971. 

Bruce had quite a following in the Northeast back then. He worked out of his home shop on the farm near Mullica Hill, N.J., where he operated the South Jersey School of Horseshoeing. In addition, he served a full book of horseshoeing clients of all economic levels. 

From the start of our relationship in the AFA, Bruce was someone I could always rely upon for his honest opinion. He was his own man — sometimes to a fault — like many good farriers.

I wouldn’t say he was hardheaded, but it took a…