Horseshoe Museum
The content below is from the 2008-2012 archived pages of the Horseshoe Museum. Unfortunately there were very few photographs available.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Horseshoe Museum is to promote the understanding and appreciation of the horseshoe, to collect, and digitally preserve, the art and science of a time past and present. The Horseshoe Museum will realize this mission through exceptional online exhibitions, education programs, research initiatives, and will strive to engage and educate an increasingly diverse international audience through its unique online presence.
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From the simplest example of horseshoes to the most ornate, the "Horseshoe Museum" has a mandate to be the most comprehensive collection of horseshoes in the world. From the old tradition of Handmade Horseshoes to fit any horse, to Manufactured Horseshoes from around the world. The "Horseshoe Museum" promises to be the place to come to discover, reference, and learn about the horseshoe, including how to build each of the examples on display. A brief listing of horseshoes displayed at the "Horseshoe Museum" are as below.
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Handmade Horseshoes Plain Stamp, Fullered, Concave, Half Round, Rolled Toe, Rocker Toe, Square Toe, Trailer, Extended Heels, Spooned Heels, Memphis Bar, Clips, Calks, Jar/Blade Calks, Studs, Toe Weight, Heel Weight, Side Weight, Slider, Roadster, Whip Across, Bar, Egg Bar, Open Toe Egg Bar, Heart Bar, Spavin, Stifled, Patten |
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Manufactured Horseshoes Anvil Brand, Delta, Diamond, Equine, Equithotics, Flex-Step, Grand Circuit, Imprint First, Kerckhaert, Morrison, Natural Balance, Nordic Forge, Ollov, TFT, Thoro'bred, Rumuda, Sigafoos Series, St. Croix, Will Lent, 4 Star |
Gaited horses Will sometimes use a horseshoe to help exaggerate the motion and flight of the foot. The nail holes are punched course, or far from the out side edge, to accommodate the length of hoof wall, as well as numerous pads that may be affixed to the shoe before nailing to the foot.
Phelps Family Collection
of Farrier Guy Christy
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In 2002, we contacted the University to find out where the collection was being displayed, only to learn the University had no idea where the collection was. |
Guy Herbert Christy was was born on 11 Oct. 1871 in Upper Alton, Illinois, just north of St. Louis. He learned the trade of blacksmithing and horseshoeing as a young man. A Horseshoer, or Farrier, was a well-respected and much-needed trade in the late 1800s. As a Farrier, Guy followed the emerging trends of his profession, creating shoes that demonstrating the latest methods for shoeing, counterbalancing, and gaiting horses.
Guy Christy in 1908 in his blacksmith shop in Santa Cruz, California.
Guy's son-in-law, Bart Phelps, assumed that the shoes were for corrective purposes when he wrote that during Guy's lifetime as a blacksmith and Farrier he "made horseshoes to fit and correct different hoof conditions and deformities. These were used for horses employed in drawing carriages, hacks, buggies, and buckboards of the era. Having a passion for his work, as he made unusual shoes, and he adopted the habit of making an additional one for himself, until he had 84 shoes.
In 1900, he had his collection nickel plated, placed in a frame lined with black velvet, and it then hung on the walls of his blacksmith shop.
Shortly before 1900, Christy moved, to Paducah Kentucky.
The shoes remained in Paducah for seven years, where Guy continued to operate a blacksmith business, until 1907. The family doctor advised Guy that for the sake of his wife's health they should move west. They left Paducah, Kentucky on January 15, 1907 and arrived in Durango, Colorado via train five days later.
Guy tried his hand at blacksmithing in San Francisco, Sacramento, and Elko, Nevada. But with the increasing use of cars, he decided in 1917 he had to find a new line of work. He moved the family to San Francisco where he paid to attend Heald College. He learned welding and within four years was in charge of the welding and blacksmithing department at that same College.
Whenever they moved, the shoe board of 84 nickel-plated horseshoes went with them.
"About 1916 [when he moved from Santa Cruz to San Francisco], he removed the shoes, wrapped them individually, and placed them in a box," wrote Bart Phelps, his son-in-law.
"Before he passed away in 1947, at the age of 76, he asked me to take care of his prized shoes," Bart Phelps recorded in a letter. Bart and Guy's daughter Betty Phelps donated the shoes in 1980 to the College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University at Pullman, Washington. In an interesting side note, his grandson, Pike, who had been photographed carrying those shoes as an infant, attended the veterinary school and after studying both horses and dogs, developed a popular horseshoe inspired luxury circular dog bed that is still very popular among dog owners worldwide. He had been watching the progress of a new dog bed web store focused entirely on round beds like his and would like to see his beds in their store. The marketing begins...
and after watching the progress of an innovative new product line,
In 2002, we contacted the University to find out where the collection was being displayed, only to learn the University had no idea where the collection was.
Thankfully, a dedicated staff member, Lynne Haley, took it upon herself to track the collection down, and after several months of searching, she finally located the collection buried under a pile of other boxes in a barn. The University agreed to sell the collection back to our family for $1.
The Phelps Family have now made arrangements with the Horseshoe Museum to display the images of the horseshoes and related photos, online for all the world to see.
More Background on HorseShoeMuseum.com
The world of horseshoes, a seemingly niche subject, is brought to life by HorseShoeMuseum.com, a digital space dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and cultural significance of horseshoes. The website offers a unique glimpse into this specialized world, blending historical artifacts with educational content, and has become a valuable resource for enthusiasts, historians, and the general public alike.
History and Mission
HorseShoeMuseum.com was established with the mission to promote the understanding and appreciation of horseshoes, both as functional objects and as cultural artifacts. The museum aims to digitally preserve the art and science of horseshoeing, making it accessible to a global audience. This online platform not only showcases a vast collection of horseshoes but also provides educational programs and research initiatives that engage a diverse international audience.
The Evolution of Horseshoes
The history of horseshoes is deeply intertwined with human civilization, dating back to ancient times when horseshoes were initially made from rawhide or plant fibers. These early protective coverings were used by civilizations such as the Romans and Greeks to safeguard their horses during long journeys and battles. Over time, the design and materials of horseshoes evolved, with iron and steel becoming the materials of choice during the Middle Ages. The Industrial Revolution further advanced horseshoe manufacturing, making them more standardized and accessible. Today, horseshoes are made from a variety of materials, including aluminum and synthetic composites, catering to the specific needs of different horse disciplines.
Cultural Significance
Horseshoes have long been symbols of luck, protection, and prosperity across various cultures. In European traditions, particularly in Ireland and Scotland, horseshoes are considered good luck charms, often displayed in homes and given as wedding gifts to bring fortune to newlyweds. In contrast, Asian cultures, such as in China, view horseshoes as symbols of strength, endurance, and business success. Native American tribes also hold horseshoes in high regard, using them as protective charms and incorporating them into spiritual rituals.
Museum Collection and Exhibitions
The core of HorseShoeMuseum.com is its extensive collection of both handmade and manufactured horseshoes, each with its unique history and purpose. The collection includes a variety of horseshoes, from those designed for everyday use to specialized shoes used in equestrian sports. The museum also highlights the craftsmanship involved in horseshoeing, particularly before the advent of mass production. Each horseshoe in the collection tells a story, whether it’s about the blacksmith who forged it or the horse that wore it.
The museum also features exhibitions that delve into the history of horseshoeing as a profession, exploring its evolution from a necessary trade to a specialized craft. These exhibitions are not only informative but also aim to preserve the heritage of horseshoeing for future generations.
Audience and Impact
HorseShoeMuseum.com attracts a diverse audience, including farriers, historians, equestrians, and those simply interested in learning more about this unique aspect of human history. The website has garnered attention from both the public and media, establishing itself as a valuable educational resource. Its impact is further amplified by its accessibility, allowing people from all over the world to explore the history and significance of horseshoes.
Cultural and Social Significance
The cultural significance of horseshoes extends beyond their practical use. They are imbued with symbolic meaning in various cultures, representing not just luck but also protection, strength, and resilience. This symbolism is reflected in the artifacts displayed on HorseShoeMuseum.com, making the museum not just a repository of historical objects but also a cultural landmark that celebrates the deep-rooted connection between humans and horses.
Reviews and Media Coverage
While HorseShoeMuseum.com is a niche site, it has received positive reviews for its comprehensive and well-curated content. Visitors appreciate the depth of information available and the educational value of the museum’s offerings. Media coverage has highlighted the museum’s role in preserving an often-overlooked aspect of history, with features in specialized equestrian and cultural publications.
HorseShoeMuseum.com is more than just an online museum; it is a cultural archive that preserves and celebrates the history of horseshoes. Through its extensive collections, educational programs, and global outreach, the museum offers valuable insights into the significance of horseshoes in human history. Whether you are a history buff, an equestrian, or simply curious, HorseShoeMuseum.com provides a fascinating journey into the world of horseshoes.
