Delightful Devon – The Devon Horse Show & Country Fair
It’s a horse (show) of a different color! The last time that I had the pleasure of attending the Devon Horse Show was in 2004, the year that Smarty Jones won the Kentucky Derby, and had Philadelphians in a frenzy of “Smarty Mania.” It was everything equestrian right down to the Mr. Ed Marathon on local TV. It was the perfect time to be in nearby Devon PA.
Fast forward to May 23-June 3, 2018, and although Justify is not a native of “The City of Brotherly Love,” horse mania is still alive and well in The Brandywine Valley. Nothing illustrates that better than the tradition and elegance of the Devon Horse Show.
I caught up with Show Manager David Distler, who explained to me the continued success of the 122-year-old show. “It’s the oldest multi-breed outdoor show in the country. We strive to honor the Devon tradition while keeping the show modern. There’s something for everyone.”
No doubt, that’s the secret of its charm. Packed spectator stands thrilled to see McLain Ward captured the $250,000 Sapphire Grand Prix with a thrilling performance on his latest mount Clinta.
But variety being the spice of the show, fans had the pleasure of watching American Saddlebred Pleasure Horses, Three & Five-gated Saddlehorses, among many vying for the blue!
Always a crowd pleaser at Devon, the Coaching classes didn’t disappoint.
The thrilling performance that exhibits the dexterity, teamwork, and elegant presentation is enough to make me yearn for yesteryear!
Sculptor Kathleen M. Friedenberg B. Vet Med., A.A.E.A.
I found Kathleen seated at a table in front of The Art Gallery at Devon working on her latest creation. She’s a lovely lady with amazing talent and a very accomplished background. Kathleen explained to me (in her charming English accent) that she began her career as a veterinary surgeon in England, and then came to the U.S. to study human and equine orthopedics at the University of Pennsylvania on a Thouron Scholarship. Marriage and motherhood brought changes in her career direction, and she utilized her knowledge and artistic talent creating medical and veterinary illustrations, including three books. Further study in art brought her to sculpting, where her veterinary background gives her an unparalleled understanding of equine anatomy and movement. Her mantra…”If it isn’t alive, I’ve failed!” See more of Kathleen’s work at www.Bronzealive.com
As I found myself at the entrance to The Art Gallery at Devon, I decided to explore the juried show, which exhibits approximately 500 pieces of art by regional and national artists. Works include oils, watercolors, acrylics, sculpture, and mixed media featuring equestrian and animal themes, as well as still life and portraiture in traditional and contemporary styles.
The Gallery has raised over $273,000 in sales to benefit the Bryn Mawr Hospital.
Visit www.artgallery@devon.org for more information.
If you are an artist you can find out about jurying, and perhaps even enter the annual contest to create the official Devon Horse Show & Country Fair poster!
Official 2018 Devon Horse Show Poster
After watching the enchanting Hackney Pony class, and cooling off with the official show Popsicle (coconut & blueberry), I popped in to visit with Nancy Baldwin, proprietress of Windland Farm Art & Antiques.
Nancy is the consummate Devon Horse Show veteran, never having missed a show from age 7 to now 73! She showed Thoroughbreds here in her younger days and now displays her charming collection of art and antiques.
Making my way back to the press booth, I was waylaid by the siren call of fine jewelry. No wonder, I was passing by Churchwell’s Jewelers. Visiting Devon from Emerald Isle N.C., Anderson Bass and his wife Angie offer the most stunning collection of equestrian jewelry that I’ve seen to date. Featuring rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, tie tacks, and more, pieces celebrating almost every breed and discipline. A family business that started in the 1800’s Churchwells is now much more than a small-town jewelry store. The Bass family designs, manufactures, and travels around the country to regional and national horse shows selling fine pieces in gold, silver, and platinum.
In 2016 Anderson designed and made a gold broach featuring four horses pulling a park drag carriage for Queen Elizabeth’s 90th birthday.
I asked Angie which item was the biggest seller at Devon this year. Diamond earrings!
To say that there is something for everyone at the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair is indeed an understatement. The show features Family Day with specials on food and souvenirs, plus free afternoon back-barn tours.
Ladies’ Day (Rose’ All Day…this year’s theme), is resplendent with fabulous hats all vying to win prizes in categories from “Best in Show” to “Most Fascinating”, You guessed it, best “Fascinator” (topper which must have a 4″ base).
And of course, the traditional Plant Sale, held after the last class on Sunday. I was tempted, but knowing me, the plants would never make it back to Little Paddocks alive!
Be sure to put The Devon Horse Show & Country Fair on your calendar next year!
