(All Photos from “The Thoroughbred” exhibition and discussion at the Oldham County History Center on March 6 / Photos by Lori Hebel-Osborne)

From Loren Hebel-Osborne / Guest Writer:

The Oldham County horse community has long been a close nit bunch but opening night of the new exhibit on March 6th, “The Thoroughbred” at The Oldham County History Center resembled more of an old-fashioned block party and family reunion!  Neighbors, industry professionals and fans all turned out to both reminisce and linger in the past, as well as prognosticate about the future impact of the County and its place in Racing today.  The new exhibit features tenderly preserved memorabilia and artifacts of famous horses, people and farms in the area.

Guests mingled and read about Old Hat, Dark Star, Alysheba and the 13.1 million dollar record-holding sale yearling Seattle Dancer. Generational contributions of the Huffman, Foley and Wade families were highlighted on the walls but also amid the live conversations of those still working in the industry today.  And Oldham County racing history wouldn’t be complete without the inclusion of the legacy of Hermitage Farm.

A lively panel discussion featuring Del Lowell, Dr. Roger Magnusson and Bill Landes was moderated by Oldham County History Center’s Dabney Clore who prompted panelist to regale the crowd with some fabulous tales and wisdom.  Lowell was also a major contributor and author of many displays and collaborated with Clore to create the exhibit “best viewed counterclockwise like a race” said Lowell. The Thoroughbred is featured at the Center from March 7 through June 6th.   The Oldham County History Center is open Wednesday through Friday from 10-4pm and Saturdays from 10-2pm.

Industry Night is scheduled for April 13, from 6-9 pm.  This free event invites the public to meet with some of the living personalities featured in the exhibit!