When one thinks of horse industries, Beaver County, Pennsylvania may not be the first place that comes to mind. However, this small county in the western part of the state has a rich history when it comes to horses. From the early days of settlement to the present, horses have played a significant role in the development and economy of Beaver County.
The Early Days
The history of horse industries in Beaver County can be traced back to the early 1700s when European settlers first arrived in the area. These settlers brought with them their knowledge and experience with horses, which they used for transportation, farming, and other tasks. As the population grew and more land was cleared for farming, horses became an essential part of daily life.They were used to plow fields, pull wagons, and transport goods and people. Horses were also used for recreational purposes, such as racing and hunting. One of the earliest horse-related industries in Beaver County was the production of horse-drawn carriages. In the late 1700s, a man named John Hoge began making carriages in Beaver County. His business quickly grew, and by the early 1800s, he was producing carriages for customers all over western Pennsylvania.
The Rise of Horse Racing
As the 19th century progressed, horse racing became increasingly popular in Beaver County.The first recorded horse race in the county took place in 1826 at a track near New Brighton. This event sparked a love for horse racing among locals, and soon, more tracks were built throughout the county. One of the most famous racehorses to come out of Beaver County was a mare named Lady Suffolk. She was born in 1833 and was known for her speed and endurance. Lady Suffolk raced all over the country and even competed against some of the top horses of her time, including the legendary American Eclipse. Another notable horse from Beaver County was a stallion named Messenger.
He was born in 1780 and was known for his speed and strength. Messenger was one of the founding sires of the Standardbred breed, which is still used in harness racing today.
The Industrial Revolution
The 19th century also saw the rise of the industrial revolution in Beaver County. With the development of new industries, such as steel and glass production, horses were needed to transport raw materials and finished products. This led to an increase in demand for horses, and many local breeders began focusing on producing strong, sturdy workhorses. One of the most successful horse breeders in Beaver County during this time was a man named John S.Wallace. He owned a large farm in Brighton Township and bred Percheron horses, which were known for their strength and endurance. Wallace's horses were in high demand, and he sold them to customers all over the country.
The Decline of Horse Industries
As the 20th century approached, the use of horses in daily life began to decline with the invention of new technologies, such as automobiles and tractors. This led to a decrease in demand for horses, and many breeders in Beaver County had to shift their focus to other industries. However, horse racing remained popular in Beaver County throughout the 20th century.In 1963, a new racetrack called The Meadows opened in Washington County, just a short drive from Beaver County. This track quickly became a popular destination for locals who enjoyed watching and betting on horse races.
The Present Day
Today, horse industries in Beaver County are still alive and well, although they may not be as prominent as they once were. The Meadows racetrack is still in operation and continues to attract visitors from all over the region. There are also several horse farms and stables in the county that offer riding lessons, boarding, and other services. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in horses and equestrian activities in Beaver County.The county hosts several horse shows and events throughout the year, including the Beaver County Horseman's Association's annual show. These events attract both locals and visitors and help to keep the history of horse industries in Beaver County alive.
