Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum facts for kids
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| Location | 27 Main Street Wartrace, Tennessee |
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The Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum is a special place that celebrates the Tennessee Walking Horse. It's the only museum completely about these amazing horses! You can find it in downtown Wartrace, Tennessee. Inside, you'll discover lots of cool exhibits about everything to do with the Walking Horse world.
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About the Tennessee Walking Horse Museum
This museum is dedicated to the famous Tennessee Walking Horse. It shows off the history and importance of these unique horses. The museum is a great spot to learn about their special way of moving.
Museum History and Location
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum has moved a few times. It first opened in Shelbyville, Tennessee. Back then, it was in a room next to the Calsonic Arena.
Later, in the 1990s, the museum moved to Lynchburg. However, it closed its doors in 2005. But don't worry, it didn't stay closed for long!
In 2011, the museum found a new home. It reopened inside an old store in Wartrace. Wartrace is a very important town for these horses. It's even called "The cradle of the Tennessee Walking Horse."
In 2016, the museum received some money from the state. They used over $3,000 to help restore old films. These films showed the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Now, visitors can watch these historic videos.
What You Can See at the Museum
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum has many interesting exhibits. They cover all parts of the Tennessee Walking Horse world. You can learn about the horses, their riders, and their special gear.
Champions and Their Gear
One exhibit focuses on the current World Grand Champion. This display is updated every year. It changes as a new horse wins the big title.
You can also see saddles and tack worn by past champions. These are the special saddles and equipment used by winning horses. It's like seeing a sports star's jersey!
Honoring Horse Breeders and Trainers
The museum also has exhibits that honor important people. These include select breeders and trainers. These displays change from time to time. This way, you can always see something new.
One very special item is a saddle worn by Strolling Jim. He was the very first National Champion horse. There's also a colorful painting of him from 1940. It was painted by an artist named Bill Humphreys.
Famous Riders and Hands-On Fun
Another exhibit tells the story of Betty Sain. She made history in 1966. Betty became the first female rider to win a World Grand Championship. She won with her horse, Shaker's Shocker.
The museum also has a fun, hands-on section. Here, you can look through old show bills. These are like posters for horse shows. You can also read magazines about the horse industry. It's a great way to explore and learn more!
