International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame member Reuel Darling of Clovis, Calif., passed away May 24, 2025.

Darling began his professional hoof-care career in 1958, building a reputation as a consummate craftsman. He shod horses of all breeds and disciplines and excelled.

He was heavily involved in the farrier and blacksmithing communities as an early member of the California Blacksmith Association and a lifetime member of the American Farrier’s Association (AFA).

Darling was generous with his time and knowledge, opening a horseshoeing school in 1975 in Clovis.

He served as farrier of the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, Calif., and brought Professor William Russell’s book, Scientific Horseshoeing, back into print in 1987. Darling was inducted into the International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame in 1995.

A Well-Loved Innovator

He was a great and well-loved innovator. He was creative in teaching and making horseshoeing associations interesting. Our world is a better place because of him.

— Lee Green, Yucaipa, Calif.

Dedicated to His Craft

Reuel’s mastery of horseshoeing and blacksmithing was nothing short of extraordinary, a reflection of both his deep knowledge and his unwavering dedication to his craft.

Reuel’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the work he so passionately pursued.

— Michael Savoldi, Shandon, Calif.

Teacher, Mentor, Friend

The farrier industry owes Reuel Darling a huge debt of gratitude. He was foremost in encouraging the sharing of knowledge and ideas.

— Rocky Armitage, Sonora, Calif.