The horse world was vastly different in the early 20^th century. Warrenton, Virginia was famous for breeding and show hunters, and equine enthusiasts traveled to the area for the quality horses that were bred and trained.

In 1899, Warrenton horsemen Julian Kieth and Charlie Smith decided to hold a Warrenton horse show. They created the Warrenton Horse Show Association to oversee the new show, which would turn into not just one show, but a long-lived show series.

The first show was held on leased property on Culpepper Street and proved to be a great success. Given its popularity, the Association bought the property to use for future shows. Much like the first show, the succeeding Warrenton horse shows were popular and well-attended by competitors and spectators.

It is likely thanks to the deliberate planning of the show's additional activities that the spectator turnout was so good. From the very first show, the Warrenton Horse Show offered a variety of entertainment in addition to the classes themselves. Pageants, luncheons, and displays meant that the show offered something for all attendees, and such activities became tradition.

Today it is that tradition that draws show attendance. With the mechanization of the 20^th century, the interest in hunt clubs and hunter breeding that was present at the show’s creation has waned. However, the Warrenton Horse Show still remains a staple of the hunter world, and the Warrenton Horse Show Association is now the "oldest continuously operating corporation in the Commonwealth of Vi...."

The Warrenton Horse Show offers hunter classes for a wide variety of riders, ranging from children to adults. Since the show has been in existence for so long, some equestrians who competed at Warrington as children have gone on to watch their own children compete at the historic venue. The show serves as a debut for many local young riders.

Sunday nights at the show are particularly popular. Designated as Hunt Night, Sunday night's competition is made up of foxhunting riders from local hunt clubs. Spectators tailgate around the arena and watch the competition from their vehicles.

Among the show’s highlights include a performance by Patsy Cline in the 1950s. A horn blowing contest now makes up a part of the annual show, as does a week-long silent auction. Perpetual trophies add to the show’s tradition.

The Warrenton Horse Show is a United States Equestrian Foundation (USEF) C-rated show. Though smaller than some of its previous shows, the Warrenton Horse Show is still a popular destination for many enthusiasts of the hunter world. To learn more about this show series, visit the Warrenton Horse Show's website.

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/australianshepherds/3314694681

Original Source: The Warrenton Horse Show Becomes a 115-Year-Old Tradition This Year