On May 22, 1896, the first meeting was held to create the Devon Horse Show. And the show's founders weren't fooling around – the first Devon Horse Show was held in Devon-Berwyn, Pennsylvania that July, just a short two months later.

The first Devon Horse Show was an entirely different event from what it has grown into today. The first show was one day long and offered only 28 classes. Today, it is the largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in the United States, an honor that it has held since 1914.

Beginning in 1919, the Devon Horse Show was paired with a Country Fair, drawing increased attendance and revenue. Part of the proceeds from the event were donated to the local Bryn Mawr Hospital, and the Devon Horse Show continues to act as a fundraiser for the hospital today. To date, the event has raised almost $14 million.

Attendance at the Devon Horse Show grew annually, and with the increased competition and audience, the facilities grew as well. The 1938 show included stabling for 600 horses, and a drainage system was installed to keep the footing safe for competitors, even in the rain. Night competitions became a new addition to the 1940 show.

The Devon Horse Show suffered during World War II. Though a show was held in 1942, 1943, and 1944, the horse show was replaced by a dog show. No show was held in 1945. Fewer elite competitors and attendees meant reduced financial support for the show, and the show’s committee sought out celebrities to entertain the crowds.

Despite the changing atmosphere, though, the competitors at the Devon Horse Show continued to reflect quality. The show drew the attention of highly trained horses and riders, and the rings and facilities were carefully maintained and developed.

Today the Devon Horse Show is USEF-A rated and is an internationally recognized competition. It was designated a USEF Heritage Competition in 2010, signifying that the show has existed for more than 25 years, has maintained the ideals of competition while promoting the sport of riding, and has contributed to its community.

This year’s show takes place from May 22^nd through June 1^st and hosts a wide variety of classes, including those for hunters, jumpers, equitation, Saddlebreds, Hackney Horses and Ponies, Friesians, and driving.

The Devon Horse Show features top-quality competition and the opportunity to see a variety of horses and riders. To learn more about the Devon Horse Show, visit the show's website.

Image Source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devon_Horse_Show

Original Source: http://blog.classic-equine.com/2014/05/may-22-1896-the-first-meeting-was-held-to-create-the-devon-horse-show/