Thanks to the generosity of 10 farrier suppliers and the talents and dedication of the Kentucky Derby Museum staff, the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame now has a permanent home.

The unique exhibit that salutes outstanding farriers was dedicated at the Louisville, Ky., museum on Jan. 20. A number of farriers who’ve been honored in this program since 1992 were among the 192 guests at a grand opening party.

Hall Of Fame farriers traveled from California, Washington, Maryland, New York, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Iowa, Virginia and New Mexico to participate in the opening ceremony.

Following remarks by museum director Lynn Ashton and introductions by American Farriers Journal Editor/Publisher Frank Lessiter, New York farrier Buster Conklin officially opened the exhibit by pounding out a tune on an anvil.

Tribute To Shoers

Located on the second floor — above the museum hall that features a 360-degree, high-definition video of the Kentucky Derby experience — the horseshoeing exhibit is housed in a replica of a cement block stall located on the backside at Churchill Downs. 

YEARS OF SHOEING EXPERIENCE. Among International Horseshoeing Hall Of Famers enjoying the festivities at the exhibit’s grand opening were (left to right): Lee Green, Yucapia, Calif.; Roy Bloom, Drummond, Wis.; Bill Miller, Olympia, Wash.; Walt Taylor, Albuquerque, N.M.; Myron McLane, Somerset, Mass.; Eddie Watson, Keswick, Va.; Red Renchin, Mequon, Wis.; and Henry Heymering, Frederick, Md.

The Hall of Fame exhibit includes a display of Lexington, Ky., farrier Pat Hillock’s tools and shoes, along with photos and graphics depicting…