TIME LINE (any errors are mine alone)

Imogen Mary Collier Born 6th July 1873

A 'Polo Pony,' to quote Captain E.D. Miller in his book, Modern Polo, (Second Edition 1902), “ … will have a spare leg for every emergency.” In 1869 when the 10th Hussars first brought the game to there were six players on each side. The game changed and the pony developed, and by 1873 the number of players was reduced to five on each side.

In June, a sub-committee was appointed to examine the purchase of, " Hurlingham House and estate" and establish whether Polo should be played there in 1874.

Elizabeth Thompson (who later became Lady Elizabeth Butler), had her first oil painting accepted by the Royal Academy, entitled 'Missing,' an imaginary scene from the Franco-Prussian War. Strangely the original painting seems to be, 'missing', as only a photograph is known to exist.

Anatomy of the Horse – an English Edition, translated by G. Fleming of a Treatise by Chauveau and Arlony, appeared. (Treatise – a formal piece of writing dealing with a subject in depth.)

1874 Earlier Taxes payable for all horses, mares and geldings were ended in the Budget of 1874 by, “The Remission of Horse Duties,”

In May, at the Royal Academy's annual exhibition, item 142, 'Calling the Roll after an engagement,' by Elizabeth Thompson, (later Elizabeth Butler, now thought of as a, 'battle artist') was causing a sensation. It portrayed the, 'Grenadier Guards, after an engagement,' (during the Crimean War of 1854-56), this painting was purchased by Queen Victoria.

6th June - the first Polo Match was played at Hurlingham, in the presence of the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and a large gathering of people.

'Mr Charles Trelawny,' (a notable Master of Fox Hounds), relinquished 'Dartmoor Hounds', to be succeeded by Captain Monro then Admiral Parker-Delamore.

1875 1st May – the first 'Rules of Polo,' had been drawn up and published by Committee. Many alterations were made as the years went by.

By 1875 the Ebor Handicap was a great 'betting race.' it was won by Lily Agnes, (the daughter of Polly Agnes) and dam of , 'Triple Crown' winner of 1886. First run in 1843 its name was a shortened form of Eboracum, the Roman name for York, and it's first winner a horse called Pagan.

In France, the Saumur School included jumping in its Haute Ecole display.

Elizabeth Thompson (later Elizabeth Butler), exhibited at the Royal Academy, a painting of, 'The 28th (North Gloucestershire) Regiment at Quatre Bras,' on the 16th June 1815. It was her ambition to show what an 'English Square,' (battle formation), looked like during a prolonged period of action. Great care was taken over the preparation for this painting gathering all possible information to assure authenticity.

1876 The first polo pavilion was built at Hurlingham and later enlarged, (stabling for ponies and general facilities were often criticized) and the annual match for the, 'Champion Cup,' was inaugurated.

'Show jumping,' was first officially recorded in England at the five day Agricultural Show at Islington, points were awarded for style by a Master of Fox Hounds.

The 'grey squirrel,' was loose in the park at Henbury, in Cheshire, (having come from Europe), and already its appearance seems to have reduced the population of the native 'red squirrel.'

After the, 'Battle of the Little Bighorn' (Custer's last stand), the only living thing left was Comanche, a cavalry horse belonging to Captain Myles Keogh, he was badly wounded but survived another seventeen years, being allowed to wander about the forts where he was posted, his only duties were ceremonial. He died in 1893 and his stuffed body was put on display at the University of Kansas.

1877 'The Suffolk Stud Book Association,' later to become the 'Suffolk Horse Society,' was founded. Also known as the 'Suffolk Punch,' the horse is always chestnut in colour and said to date as far back as 1506. The Society's first volume of the, 'Stud Book,' was published in 1880.

'The Clydesdale Horse Society of Great Britain and Ireland,' was formed, (publishing its first Stud Book in 1878), a native of the former county of Lanarkshire, this splendid, 'draught horse,' was known for the, 'wearing qualities,' of it's feet and the acceptance of, 'white,' in it's colouring.

Anna Sewell wrote 'Black Beauty,' 100,000 copies sold before a new edition in 1894

The New Forest Act or Commons Charter was passed. By virtue of The New Forest Act the Verderers were given power to make bye-laws on various matters including complete control of all stallions turned out on The Forest. (Verderers' were people appointed to protect the , 'rights and privileges' of the Commoners.)

1878 'The Horse in Motion,' was published by Edward Muybridge who had started his photographic experiments in 1872. The leg movements of a 'galloping horse,' was a much debated topic at the time, (the conventional, 'gallop of the past,' with all legs stretched out and off the ground is familiar from paintings), and later Edward Muybridge helped to bring to life the fluid motion of, 'the trotter,' in the series of still photographs forerunners of the motion picture.

The Inter-regimental and County Cup Tournaments, (polo) were started at Hurlingham. The annual match between Oxford and Cambridge was also inaugurated.

In honour of The Prince and Princess of Wales an astonishing crowd of 2,000 – 3,000 riders turned out to a, 'Meet', of Lord Portman's Hounds at Crichel, Dorset.

Alfred James Munnings was born at Mendham, Suffolk and Lionel Dalhousie Robertson Edwards was born at Clifton, both were later to become well known painters of horses.

1879 The whole of the Mulgrave estate of about thirteen acres was leased by the Hurlingham Club from Lord Ranelagh as a residence for the ,'polo manager', and accommodation for visiting Polo Players.

Jockeys in Britain had to be licensed from 1879 on.

Elizabeth Butler lost, 'election to the Royal Academy,' by two votes. By the autumn she had already begun work on, 'Scotland For Ever !,' another well known painting.

The ancient Tarpan, (either the Forest or Steppe of North East Europe), was small mouse coloured with an, 'eel stripe,' down its back and upright mane. The Tarpans were hunted almost to extinction and later a few were kept in reserves such as that of Count Zamoyski in Poland. It is said that the last, 'free living' Tarpan died in 1879 having escaped from a reserve.

1880 Hunting started in New Zealand about this time when 'harriers,' were brought out by some prominent landowners. Harriers were hounds used originally for hunting hares.

From 1880 onwards at Hurlingham, Polo Pony races, and pony and hack shows became annual events with the Club giving the prizes.

It was still possible to buy a good sound young horse, (too slow for flat racing), for anything between £50 and £300. as yet there was no foreign market worth mentioning and flat racing was in its infancy.

In the country from 1880 onwards, ladies frequently rode out alone when they were particularly good horsewomen but would not ride to hounds unaccompanied or unattended.

1881 The Great Snow Storm, began on 8th January and did not break until 26th January 1881.

The army reorganised the regiments. The numerical titles were dropped and County Titles introduced, (two regiments of Foot, combined to form the First and Second battalions of County Regiments) After 1881 The Devonshire regiment came into being.

A 'New Section,' of The General Stud Book, was introduced for the inclusion of Arabs. Original Arab Horses were imported by Mr. Blunt, a great advocate of the best Arabian blood lines.

A Russian explorer (Przewalski), discovered unknown wild Mongolian horses in the Tachin Schara Nuru Mountains at the edge of the Gobi desert. These horses are the only truly wild horses still alive, however it is probable they may only be found in Zoo's and Park's today.

1882 Lord Manners, riding his own horse, 'Seaman,' won The Grand National. Fred Archer a leading jockey, won the St. Leger on, 'Dutch Oven,' at 40-1 in the same year.

The number of polo players in a game was reduced to, 'four players,' on each side.

'Coaching,' was beginning to speed up with the introduction of a lighter build of horse imported from Spain. The Spanish Jennet, (or Ginete famous in earlier days for its looks and obedience), was imported in numbers. Travelling by coach was often an indifferent experience and luggage often went missing.

It was noted that in 1882 a 'Turkish Sultan', with over three hundred horses in his stables had only four pure bred Arabians.

1883 Prince Batthyany, a very well known sportsman, died on 25th April, and the sale of his extensive blood stock was held in July, by Tattersalls at Newmarket. The Duke of Portland bought St. Simon who as a two year old astonished the public, he was never beaten in a race.

Lord Arthur Cecil believed the way to improve Mountain and Moorland ponies was to introduce blood of similar breeds. He began to bring stallions into the New Forest from the Isle of Rhum, the Fells of Cumberland, from Dartmoor and Exmoor and later The Mountains of Wales – however over time little change seems to have taken place.

Since 1790 when The Compte de Sivran took to the streets of Paris on a wooden horse fitted with two small wheels, cycling had been developing apace. In 1883 The Bicycle Touring Club became, The Cyclists touring Club.

Great Western Railway acquired its own horses, having previously used contractors.

1884 The nucleus of the present Shire Horse Society was founded under the title of the,' English Cart Horse Society', on March 20th. The Cleveland Bay Horse Society was also formed.

The Hackney Horse Society founded in 1884, had been serving the interests of both the Hackney Horse and the Hackney Pony since 1883.

The Grand National Hunt Committee was reformed to become more aligned to the Jockey Club and construct inclusive rules for the sport, ( the early sport of Steeplechasing had taken many twists and turns before The Great Steeplechase of 1839, the fore runner of the Grand National, and the formation in 1866 of The Grand National Steeplechase Committee.)

Three Household Cavalry Regiments and The Royals made up the Heavy Camel Regiment, (part of the Nile Expedition), in an abortive attempt to rescue General Gordon who was trapped in Khartoum and later killed in the violent uprising.

1885 'The Hunters' Improvement Society,' was formed and produced nine volumes, generally referred to as 'Records,' (Volume 1 was a 'Record of Prize Mares', later volumes included sires), before becoming The Hunters' Improvement and National Light Horse Breeding Society.

The first show of The Hunter' Improvement Society was held in conjunction with The Hackney Horse Society's show at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington, North .

Cairo 1885/6 "Witness the suffering horses bitted up with tight bearing-reins standing for hours outside shops and smart houses where, "at homes" are going on, when a word from the fair owners to their ignorant coachman might procure ease for their miserable beasts." (Shades of Black Beauty.) From 'Sketch Book and Diary' by Elizabeth Butler

Mr E. P. Wilson rode two, 'Grand National,' winners in succession Voluptuary in 1884 and Roquefort in 1885.

1886 The first Westchester Cup 'International Polo Matches' were played between Britain and the United States of America . The Westchester Cup was presented by the Westchester Polo Club of Newport, Rhode Island U.S.A.

Fred Archer who was considered the, 'greatest of all jockeys' in 1886, became ill with typhoid fever and at the young age of twenty nine shot himself. His recorded 'wins,' include five Derby's, four Oaks and six wins in the St. Leger.

The abolition of races known as 'Queen's Plates', released certain moneys which enabled grants to be made to assist breeders.

Undergraduates at Oxford still drove about in dog-carts.

1887 An Act of 1887 gave 'Inspectors' the right to visit mines and check on the treatment horses received, but it proved to be insufficient to prevent cases of cruelty and neglect.

Mr Robert J. Goff of Newbridge, County of Kildare, was appointed Auctioneer to The Turf Club and in 1887 conducted his first sale of yearlings at Ballsbridge. The history of Goff's is inevitably linked with the history of bloodstock in Ireland.

A 'Remount Commission' was formed in 1887 to purchase horses for the Military centrally.

On 21st June 1887 for Queen Victoria's first Jubilee, a Torchlight procession up to Windsor Castle was organised by Doctor Warre, Eton's Headmaster, (one of the few Eton Headmasters ever to have be seen on horseback.)

1888 A Royal Commission was set up to distribute modest Annual Grants to the owners of good stallions in order to advance the breeding of horses suitable for military purposes.

The Hunters' Improvement Society printed its second,'Record', not only were its own results catalogued but also those of the Royal Agricultural Society of England's Spring show at Newcastle- on-Tyne.

The 'Yeomanry Regiments' became liable for service anywhere in the country in the event of invasion.

A French Colonel whose interest was the Arabian Horse stayed for some time, during 1888 with the Sbaas and Fadaan Bedouin Tribes.

1889 The Grand National Hunt Committee, (formerly The Grand National Steeplechase Committee), became the National Hunt Committee.

The totaliser was first used in New Zealand in 1880 but it was not until 1889 that it was legalized by the New Zealand Government. (Totalisator or totaliser, a machine which registers bets and calculates winnings in proportion to the amount of money staked.)

1889 was the greatest show of the Hunters' Improvement Society so far, there were ninety four Thoroughbred Stallions on show.

Frederick Remington an American painter and sculptor, specializing in the 'Old West' had his dramatic engraving, 'The Ambushed Picket,' published on the front page of Harper's Weekly on 8th June. (Harper's Weekly was an American Political Magazine based in New York.)

1890 Between 1880 and 1890 the big Commercial "Park," race meetings had come into being, Sandown, Kempton, Hurst, Lingfield and now in 1890 Alexandra Park, London's racecourse.

At Hampton Court, there was, 'a bit of a tussle' as to who should buy La Fleche, (a filly foaled in 1889 and in the yearling sale),would it be Lord Marcus Beresford or Baron Hirsch. Baron Hirsch purchased her and she won for him, the One Thousand Guineas, the Oaks and the St Leger.

C.A. Smith rode from London to Brighton on a bicycle with pneumatic tyres in seven hours, one hour faster than the coach.

Horses, (in any numbers), first arrived in Southern Rhodesia in September 1890 when a mounted force of pioneers and police arrived to claim the territory for the Empire.

1891 On 10th February, the Association for the Improvement of the Breed of New Forest Ponies was inaugurated at Lyndhurst, to award each year prizes and premiums to stallions after they had been passed by the Verderers to run in the Forest.

The 'Great Blizzard of 9th March,', caused much damage, travel disruption and heartache for days, sadly a prediction of bad weather in 'Old Moore's Almanac', had not been heeded.

In the field for the 'National,' were four previous winners, Voluptuary 1884, Roquefort 1885, Gamecock 1887 and Ilex1890. The race was won by Come Away.

To a pony called Polly. "Polly".. has died. It seems such a break with the past. ..bought by Sir Robert for himself but he was too heavy for her.....she was about 14 hands a pony of great character and beauty. We vainly wished that she would consent to draw a little cart. ... I have had some lovely rides on her..... she had eyes in her feet and was a regular little devil ..... Farewell wicked but faithful friend. Lady Mary Monkswell, 1891

1892 Mule breeding became more profitable than donkey breeding and was centred in the New Forest, young mules were shipped from Southampton Docks to America. By 1892 there were several million 'mules,' in the United States. A 'Mule' is the offspring of a male Donkey and female Horse.

The Mashonaland Turf Club, was founded in Rhodesia and five years later a Carnival Meeting was held at Salisbury.

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle published, 'The Adventure of Silver Blaze,' a racehorse who disappeared a week before a race. Sherlock Holmes solved the mystery.

The 'Broad Gauge' railway line, (to be found in the West Country), was finally abolished, and the first corridor train with a gangway throughout and steam heating first appeared on 7th March on a train from Paddington to Birkenhead.

1893 On 20th June, at the Chester Royal Show, The Polo Pony Stud Book was first discussed and rules were drawn up. The hope being to 'fix a type of breed', of high-class "Riding" pony.

Field-Marshal Earl Roberts, V.C., after forty-one years in India brought his decorated white Arab Charger "Vonolel," home with him. His medals were the, 'Afghan War medal' and the special bronze star. Vonolel had been purchased as a four-year-old from an Arab Horse Dealer in Bombay in 1877.

The Champion Cup of Argentina was founded when Argentinian polo players began to visit England.

In November, when Lord Lonsdale (known as The Yellow Earl), met his field at his Opening Meet of the Quorn, the showmanship was astonishing. His whole cavalcade was dressed in yellow and scarlet, all mounted on his famous evenly matched thoroughbred chestnuts and even the hounds arrived in a yellow hound van. Four or five hundred horsemen were there to meet him.

1894 Volume 1 of The Polo Pony Stud Book was printed, (stallions 1-57 and mares 1-316. 'No animal is scarcer or worth more money as a pony, than one which will carry a heavy man safely and easily as a 'hack'.) Volume II of the Polo Pony Stud Book, stallions 58-87 and mares 317-474.

Frank Calderon painter, exhibited 'Horse Fair' at the Royal Academy. He also set up and was Principal of 'The School of Animal Painting', in Baker Street (1894-1916.)

Mr. Meuric Lloyd bred an 11.2 hands, champion pony called Dyoll Starlight. He was to put an indelible stamp on the Welsh Pony Breed.

The Military Show at Aldershot attended by many thousands of spectators on 11th July, 1894 was a Torchlight Tattoo, (beginning at 10 p.m.) arranged for the visit of Queen Victoria.

1895 The first horse race to be recorded on film was, 'The Derby at Epsom on 29th May. The race was won by Sir Visto.

'The Polo Pony Society' produced a Supplement for Volume III of their Stud Book, (in which may be recorded without numbers, the pedigrees and performances of foals, yearlings, two and three year olds, all conforming to strict breeding conditions usually the sire or dam must be registered with the society, however honours at 'Polo Pony' classes at Associated Shows were acceptable.) The society's first show at Ranelagh on Wednesday 5th June was very poorly attended.

The Duke of Portland purchased the stallion 'Carbine'. He was shipped aboard the Orizata from Australia, having been given a great send off from Melbourne.

An outbreak of 'mange,' (an awful disease leading to death in foxes and sometimes badgers), had been sweeping the for about three years, and had now arrived in the New Forest.

1896 A very popular winner 'of a close run race' was Persimmon in the Derby at Epsom on 3rd June. A bronze statue of Persimmon, (bred by The Prince of Wales) is at the Royal Stud at Sandringham.

The second annual show of 'The Polo Pony Society' was held at Hurlingham, this was again poorly attended. Some changes to the schedule had been made and prizes were offered to Exmoor, Dartmoor (sadly no entries were received), New Forest and Welsh or Border County Ponies. Volume III of the Stud Book was published, stallions 88-113 and mares 475-598.

The matter of doping was just beginning to raise its ugly head. With the arrival of some Americans who found no laws against it, cocaine seemed a good 'pick up' for the jaded horse, a few stories began to circulate, sweating horses and unusual race results began to proliferate.

'Sidney's Book of The Horse' was published. It dealt with the technical or professional aspects of horse management.

1897 For The Queen's Diamond Jubilee on 22nd June, the main Military Tattoo was held at Windsor, (a full rehearsal had taken place two weeks earlier at Aldershot.) In London, Lady Elizabeth Butler observed, ".... I think in the way of perfect dress and of superfine, thoroughbred horse flesh, Lord Lonsdale's troop of Cumberland Hussars was as memorable a group as any that day."

The Polo Pony Society was approached by The Royal Agricultural Society of England to see if they could have 'a complete,' show of ponies in Manchester, whilst this was very satisfactory from a financial point of view, certain problems arose with the judging of Polo Ponies.

"Tod" Sloane, the young American jockey, much despised and ridiculed for his style of riding kept on winning races, during his short stay, (in 1897 the style of riding we see today was a revelation.)

Plans were completed to buy a tract of land at Newbury in Berkshire with a view to constructing a race course.

1898 "Tod" Sloan returned to England and became first jockey to Lord William Beresford. On being asked what he thought of Sloan, jockey Fred Rickaby said, ".... If I were an owner I should not run a horse unless Sloan rode it." Men and Horses I have Known by Hon. George Lambton.

Lord Polo, won First Prize in the,' Polo Pony Stallions, not exceeding 13.2 Class,' at The Royal Agricultural Society of England Show at Birmingham, (bred by Sir Humphrey de Trafford Bart.) Lord Polo was later brought to Devon to the Tavistock area where he ran on the moor, with his own herd of mares.

Alfred Munnings first exhibited at The Royal Academy, (he submitted three pictures two were accepted). Neither of the pictures hung was a horse subject.

Volume IV of the Polo Pony Society was published, (stallions 114-124, mares 599-687.) Offices, at 12 Hanover Square, allowed the Society to be in touch with other large Breed Societies.

1899 Trotting Horses and Racing died out in England in about 1899, (the 'Trotting Union of Great Britain and Ireland' had been trying to raise standards and the Trotting Stud Book was being compiled), however the sport had sunk to a very low point and did not survive.

All Boer ponies, (small and sturdy and used to travelling about 35-40 miles a day), were taught to stand when the reins were drawn over their heads and left on the ground, "ground-hitched" thus removing the need for anyone to hold them and making small groups of men very effective. (President Kruger of the Transvaal wanted independence and on 11th October, declared war.)

On 18th December, the British Government appealed for 'Volunteers', (special legislation was passed enabling 'Volunteer Units' to operate overseas,) within weeks battalions of Imperial Yeomanry were embarked and sailing for South Africa. Many horses did not survive the sea voyage.

Volume V of, 'The Polo Pony Society,' was published stallions 125-168, mares 688-920.

1900 At the second modern, 'Olympic Games' in Paris, three horse-jumping events were included, high, long and prize. The Belgian riders were prominent competitors.

By 1900 the 'Polo Pony Society' were in negotiations with 'The Hunters' Improvement Society,' and co-operating with the Royal Agricultural Society of England, (to whom they were indebted for three successful shows), also in talks with the Crystal Palace Horse Show and Richmond Horse Show. Volume VI of The Polo Pony Society1899/1900, (stallions 169-210, mares 921-1147.)

The Royal 1st Devon Yeomanry provided the 26th Company of the 7th Battalion. Imperial Yeomanry for the South African War, (Boer War).

The Prince of Wales, with his horse Diamond Jubilee won the, Two Thousand Guineas, the Derby, the St. Leger and the , and he also won the Grand National with Ambush II.

1901 On Tuesday 22nd January, Queen Victoria died and her funeral was on the 2nd of February. (.....The Queen's coffin stood high on the gun carriage drawn by the eight cream coloured ponies. It was covered by a magnificent white satin pall, edged with gold and embroidered with the Crown and Arms of England...... ) Lady Mary Monkswell.

The first officially recorded, 'International show-jumping' was recorded in Turin between German and Italian Army Officers.

The,'Welsh Pony and Cob Society Stud Book,' was inaugurated.

Volume VII of, 'The Polo and Riding Pony Stud Book', (stallions 211-283 mares 1148-1357), now present the entries in a new way. 'Annual Supplements,' are introduced for young ponies. Horses four years old and upwards are registered for life in the Stud Book and sections for Mountain and Moorland Breeds are retained, (the, '1901 Supplement,' is included in the present volume.)

1902 Volume IX of 'The Hunters' Improvement Society,' Record of Mares and Sires, (sires 21-22, mares 2245-2653), was the last under this title. The title would now be 'The Hunters' Improvement and National Light Horse Breeding Society' and the Volumes would commence from Volume 1.

The South African War ended, by the signing of the, 'Peace of Pretoria,' on May 31st. After the return of peace horse reserves were increased to 25,000 and more generous grants made to the horse-breeding industry.

The Coronation of Edward the VII was fixed for 25th June, however he became ill and the day was postponed until August 9th, "in his gilded coach,made for the Coronation of George III and drawn by eight Cream Hanoverian horses, he made his way to Westminster."

On September 9th a 'Resolution' was passed saying that a 'Dartmoor Pony' shall not have more than one quarter thoroughbred blood.

1903 A strong campaign by the The Hon. George Lambton, (trainer) saw the Jockey Club ban doping, which had proliferated to the extent it had become a national scandal. ( Rule 176 -If any person shall be proved to have administered for the purpose of affecting the speed of a horse drugs or stimulants internally by hypodermic or other methods every person so offending shall be warned off Newmarket Heath and other places where these rules are enforced.)

Captain Caprilli an Italian Cavalry Officer devised our present system of riding with short stirrups, (based on Tod Sloan) his mantra, was to always be in perfect balance with your horse.

'Hackney Pony Harness Championships,' were introduced following 'Hackney Harness Championships,' in 1900.

Hurlingham, Ranelagh and Roehampton agreed, to open their classes, at their Annual Shows, to ponies the property of ,'Members' of the 'Polo and Riding Pony Society' in 1904.

1904 The Public Accounts Committee of the House of Commons asked the War Office to investigate how some 6.5 million pounds had been squandered, in the wake of the South African War. Lt. General Butler, who had previously led an enquiry, (1901, into the operation of the Remount Department that had ceased to function effectively because of the demands placed upon it 129,000 horses shipped to South Africa to name but one), was asked to chair the committee.

Volume I of, 'The Hunters' Improvement and Light Horse Breeding Society,' Stud Book and Supplement was ready for distribution in January, (18 stallions & 229 mares and fillies were noted).

By 1904 'doping' was made a Criminal Offence.

The London Show of ,'The Polo and Riding Pony Society,' issued its own catalogue, and reclassified Mountain and Moorland Breeds. Local Committees were granted the power to appoint their own 'Judges.'

1905 The governing body of Polo, now known as the 'Hurlingham Polo Association,' became representative of all polo interests throughout the British Empire. The 'Medals,' offered by 'The Polo and Riding Pony Society,' were struck from the new dies which the Council had specially made, in view of their new and registered title.

September 23rd – the height of 'Dartmoor Pony Mares,' was amended down to 13 hands high.

The comprehensive 'Butler Report' published in June, pushed the responsibility for the, 'army stores' scandal firmly to the highest levels, at the War office.

"Captain Luis Azpeitia de Moros', Spanish Classic ... an account of The Cria Caballar's journey and arduous trek on horseback through the Syrian desert ..... into the world of the Turks, Kurds and Bedouin nomads, searching for quality oriental breeding stock...... " In Search of the Arabian Horse, translated and annotated by Andrew K. Steen ISBN-84-607-2460-3

1906 " Riding Off" a first sculpture by Herbert Haseltine, was awarded the 'Mention Honorable' at the Paris Salon. In the same year a statue of 'Spearmint winner of the , with Bernard Dillon up', was commissioned, shown at the Paris Salon and later at the Royal Academy.

A meeting was held in the autumn to launch a new project, The International Horse Show, Hugh Lonsdale, (The Yellow Earl) was invited to be President.

The 'Burley and District New Forest Pony and Cattle Society,' was formed, with the object of holding an annual show on August Bank Holiday.

"Tuesday April 17th ... San Francisco was the glittering and worldly "first city" of America's West. Then one warm April morning ..... a vast crack in the earth's surface darted out from the sea-bed at more than 7,000 miles an hour, dooming 28,000 buildings and countless lives ...." Earthquake : The Destruction of San Francisco by Gordon Thomas and Max Morgan-Witts

1907 The 'International Horse Show,' took place at Olympia from Friday 7th June to the 14th, many were the attractions including the 'Hackney Harness Championship' and jumping competitions. The Italian Cavalry Team won the, 'show jumping' with such ease that every other rider was forced to wonder. Why?. The forward seat pioneered by Federico Caprilli had arrived.

The first races 'on ice' were originated in St. Moritz. The course was generally laid out on a frozen lake and required the surface to be 'a foot, to a foot and a half thick'. The horses, (wearing special shoes), were often upset at first, by the crunch of the snow followed by a sight crack in the ice.

Mr. Alfred Vanderbilt an American enthusiast was credited with a, 'Second Revival' of coaching when he put on the 'Venture' to run between London and Brighton. He used fifty-eight horses.

The 'Masters of Foxhounds Association of America' was organised along similar lines to the Masters of Foxhounds Association, (of England).

1908 During the Opening Ceremony of the, 'Olympic Games', the first 'Parade of Nations,' took place and the 'Hurlingham Club' donated a Perpetual Challenge Cup for polo at, 'International Olympiads.'

Shocks in racing!. St Simon, foaled in 1881 dropped dead while returning from exercise. (Owned by the Duke of Portland he was one of the most famous sires of all time.) 'Persimmon' owned by the King had to be put down following an accident and 'Signorinetta' at odds of 100-1 won the Derby and later the Oaks.

Mr. Vanderbilt following his success in 1907, put on a second coach, the 'Viking,' from London to Brighton each day and another daily from Brighton to London, he increased his stud to over 100 horses all greys and this continued until 1910.

Viscount Knutsford whilst out hunting recalls, "I actually mentioned having come across some wire at Aylesbury ....." (wire was to change the hunting scene completely.)

1909 Horse-breeding in England was in decline owing to the motor car and mechanical traction in general. The Council of the, 'Hunters' Improvement and Light Horse Breeding Society' decided to absorb a smaller society the, 'Brood Mare Society,' (formed about 1903) to address the situation.

A letter was sent to Polo Players, by 'The Polo and Riding Pony Society,' asking if they would present to the Society, any of their Polo Pony Mares which were no longer able to go into the game and which the Editing Committee would put out with Members for breeding purposes.

Central to the newly organised Territorial Force, were the Yeomanry and Volunteer Regiments, Colours were presented by King Edward VII to representative parties from Regiments in the Force.

At the International Horse Show, improved and more severe jumping events took place, to the delight of spectators some of whom were still there at two o'clock in the morning, (an Italian owned horse won clearing,7 foot 4 inches.)

1910 King Edward VII died on May 6th casting a long shadow over sporting events such as Ascot.

Herbert Haseltine completed one of his most celebrated commissions, a group sculpture of the famous, 'Meadowbrook Polo Team,' the 'Big Four,' consisting of Whitney, the captain, at back riding Cotton Tail, a weight-carrying Irish pony with a docked tail ; Devereux Milburn at No.1, on a good- looking roan mare, (The Roan Mare); Larry and Monte Waterbury Numbers 2 and 3 on Little Mary and Cobnut respectively.

'William 'Buffalo Bill,' Cody was a showman who dazzled America and Europe with his famous 'Wild West Show,' (at its height there were 700 performers and 500 horses). It was designed to spread the appeal of professional horsemanship from cultures around the world. In fact, it was an equestrian showcase on the eve of the horse's decline as a work animal.

'The Burley and District New Forest Pony and Cattle Society,' started to publish a Stud Book.

1911 22nd June – The Coronation of King George V and Queen Mary. Legislation known as, 'The Pit Ponies Charter,' was passed, to improve the lot of pit ponies.

For Saving Animal Life, "During the recent Colliery strikes in Wales, .....A number of enraged miners endeavoured to flood a mine which they had abandoned, in which were imprisoned some three hundred pit ponies. At great peril, two men resisted, and finally frustrated this object, and so succeeded in averting a tragedy...... Mr Leonard Llewellyn and Mr. Hedley Clarke, the two heroes, were presented with, ('The Polo and Riding Pony Society's), gold and silver medals respectively."

"Freddy" died he embarked in 1899, with a composite Household Cavalry regiment to South Africa, and took part in every action in which the regiment was engaged. He was the only horse to return.

Fifteen Siberian ponies were taken to Antarctica as part of Scott's ill fated expedition to the South Pole. By the 21st November it had become obvious that, 'the going' was too hard for the ponies.

1912 17th March, 'an almost total eclipse of the sun,' and on 14th and 15th April, 'The Titanic' sank.

The President of the, 'Board of Agriculture and Fisheries,' appointed on 10th February, a committee to advise him as to whether and, if so, what measures can be adopted for the improvement of Mountain and Moorland Breeds of Ponies. (The report 'Improvement of the Mountain and Moorland Breeds,' was presented later in the year.)

'The Hunters' Improvement and Light Horse Breeding Society,' made an important alteration to their regulations. No stallion was to be accepted, (for the thoroughbred stallion classes), unless it had been registered for the current year as sound and suitable for breeding purposes.

International Horse Show at Olympia - two interesting 'Pack Horses' were paraded. Olympics, Stockholm, Sweden – First Three-day equestrian event, (exclusively for the military.) Grand National – Jerry M, trained by Robert Gore, jumped 40 feet carrying 12 stone 7 pounds.

1913 During the Derby, Miss Emily Wilding Davison, dashed out in front of the The King's horse Anmer, as the field started to round Tattenham Corner, bringing down Anmer and his jockey Herbert Jones. The horse scrambled up, Herbert Jones was injured and Miss Davison died in hospital later.

"No horse or mare can be considered as eligible for admission unless it can be traced without flaw on both sire's and dam's sides of its pedigree to horses and mares themselves already accepted in earlier volumes of the Book," so instructed the compilers of, ' The General Stud Book' in an act of revision, generally known as the "Jersey Act," after Lord Jersey (then Viscount Villiers).

'The Masters of Hounds Point-to-Point Association,' was formed and set up a committee to regularise the position of Point-to-Point racing and frame a new set of rules.

Great numbers of Suffolk Stallions were exported, to the United States, Canada, Austria and Russia. The Tetrarch, unbeaten as a two year old, injured his fetlock and never ran as a three year old.

1914 The Archduke Francis Ferdinand, heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary and his wife Sophie, the Duchess of Hohenberg were murdered in Sarajevo the Bosnian capital by Gavrilo Princip a schoolboy of nineteen, on Sunday June 28th. Later within the space of three days Germany had attacked or driven into war four, "Powers." She declared war on Russia on Saturday evening, upon France on Monday night, and invaded Belgium. The British Government then declared war on Germany at 11p.m. on 4th August.

The Veterinary Manual (war), was ready for issue in August. In 1903 two Veterinary Hospitals had been sanctioned. Major General R. Pringle was Head of the Service, with 160 officers and 113 staff.

Within 12 days from 3rd August, 165,000 horses were impressed by the mobilization programme. 'The Polo and Riding Pony Society' now became 'The National Pony Stud Book.'

1850 – 1914 was considered, "The Golden Age of Hunting."

1915 22nd April –The Second Battle of Ypres, 'poison chlorine gas' attack, the first on the Western Front. 7th May 2.10pm – the Lusitania, (left New York 1st May), sunk by U boat, off Ireland's south coast. 20th May – all racing in Great Britain suspended for the duration of the war, (except at Newmarket.) 12th October at 7a.m.- Edith Cavell, a British nurse, shot for assisting Allied prisoners to escape.

The coldest winter for thirty years.

"Ladies became more skilled at riding difficult and strong horses, whereas before the war they rode only well mannered horses. Then of course riding astride became socially acceptable. ...." A Hunting Pageant," by Mary S. Lovell

"Affairs are still very black. The mange caught I suppose from some of our ramshackle old stables, has taken firm root and can't be suppressed, ....." (from the diary of, Second Lieutenant Pilditch), 'The London Gunners come to Town' by Bertha and Chris Reynolds

1916 6th January – Compulsory Conscription Bill passed. October – Formation of the 'Food Department,' later the 'First Ministry of Food', First official importation of, 'Pure Bred Percherons,' into England.

Colonel Hall Walker, (afterwards Lord Wavertree), gifted to the nation, 'The National Stud', consisting originally of his stud farm, and every animal on it, at Tully, Co. Kildare.

Lord Kitchener, The Secretary of State for War, ordered the appointment of a Committee to report on ways of reducing the numbers of horses, (the main object seemed to be the cavalry and the provision of Officers Chargers), bicycles and motor transport were now being used extensively.

" .. 'Desert Column Spring Meeting' which included the, 'Sinai Grand National' .... The races were held on the scene of recent battle and all the runners had a short time before been in action. The Yeomanry Regiments by P.J.R. Mileham.

1917 July 17th - a royal proclamation announced that the royal family would be known as, 'Windsor. February 3rd - still neutral America became more and more alarmed by the loss of shipping due to submarine attacks and the USA severed diplomatic relations with Germany. By April 2nd 'President Wilson' asked for a declaration of war on Germany.

November 8th– One of the last,'Cavalry Charges,' in British military history took place.(The Charge of the Warwickshire and Worcestershire Yeomanry at Huj, watercolour by Lady Elizabeth Butler.)

Of eight million men mobilised for Britain, almost three million came from the Commonwealth, to name but one, 'Khudadad Khan,' of The 129th Baluchis, (part of 7th Indian Brigade), who won the Victoria Cross in October 1914.

The Prince of Wales, set up the Duchy Stud, at Tor Royal, to improve riding horses and ponies. 'Thoroughbred Breeders' Association', founded by Lord d'Aberon. 'The Dales Society,' was formed.

1918 January – compulsory rationing was introduced, starting with sugar followed by meat and butter. November 11th – at 11.00a.m. Fighting officially stopped, (the armistice was signed at 5 a.m.)

The British Army now owned thousands of unwanted horses, mules and camels. Their disposal was a delicate issue as certain assurances had been given about animals who survived, being returned. The main source of horses had been the U.S.A., when at its height, (1914-17 around 1,000 were shipped each day) and Australian Stock Horses, (120,000) who made excellent Cavalry Chargers.

The ''National Pony Stud Book', had two new sections, 'Dales Ponies' and 'Riding Cob Mares.' The 'British Percheron Horse Society,' was formed some time during 1918 The, 'Arab Horse Society,' was founded, publishing their first, 'Volume,' in 1919.

'Motor Wagons' began to take over from the village 'carrier,' (usually the horseman with his horse and wagon), and the internal combustion engine proved its worth by giving the farmer the 'tractor'.

1919 Pandemic of 'septic influenza' broke out killing 27 million people. June 28th – 'Treaty of Versailles', (most important of the 'Peace Treaty Talks,' that ended the war.) December 1st -Lady Astor took up her seat in 'The House of Commons,' the first woman to do so. March 28th – 'The Grand National,' returned to Aintree and was won by Poethlyn.

'Gassed,' a huge canvas, about 7 feet by 20 feet, by John Singer Sargent, depicting poisoned soldiers struggling, (in 1918,) from the battlefield, shown at the Royal Academy's spring exhibition.

Horace Smith, a highly respected horsemen, (joined his father's business in 1894), realising by 1914 'the age of harness was over,' turned to 'riding horses and hunters' opening his first stables near Maidenhead and eventually, in Cadogan Lane.

The 'National Pony Stud Book' opened an 'Approved Mare Register,' (conditions in the Supplement) 'Height Limit,' for polo ponies abolished.

1920 November 11th – the 'Unknown Soldier,' buried at Westminster Abbey

Masters of Hounds Point-to-Point Association, was formed to update it's rules, (Point-to-Point had had a charter since 1913), and these new rules did not stop ladies from riding against men. "...rode side-saddle...but one who certainly did was Mrs Mabel Aitken, who was over seventy when she rode her horse Ware Wire into third place .. I am told ...she presented a splendid picture in a green habit and silk hat ..." The Continuing Story of Point-To-Point Racing by Michael Williams.

The, 'National Pony Show,' was back at Islington in the Royal Agricultural Hall, (21st Show). A new feature was the inclusion of seven classes for, 'Arabs,' provided by the, 'Arab Horse Society.' The first post-war, 'Devon County Show,' was held at Exeter

At the, 'Olympic Games,' in Antwerp, Belgium, the Olympic Flag was introduced for the first time and Vivian Lockett won a Gold Medal for the United Kingdom in a Polo Match against Spain

1921 The Society's Objects are to promote the breeding of Ponies for Polo, Riding, and Military purposes, and to encourage the Native Breeds, so restates The National Pony Society. The last 'Supplement,' to be published with the main Volume (16 and 17,) covers the year 1921. At the, 'Annual Show', 'The Mountain or Moorland Group Class,' was reinstated, (last, 'Class,' 1917)

An Index of Volumes XXX to LXVI (1921- 1965) of Entries, in the Shetland Pony Stud Book Society's, 'Stud Books,' was produced by Maurice Cox to help breeders who have not been able to obtain out of print volumes. Published in September, 1969 it was republished in January 1976.

The Schumann's, (descended from one of Europe's oldest 'Circus' families), famous for their horses trained in the classic tradition, were engaged by Bertram Mills for the 'Circus,' he had just founded.

The 'Exmoor Pony Society,' formed. 'The Arab-bred Register,' was printed, (Arab-bred stallions, mares, geldings and Eastern Stallions.)

1922 'The British Show Jumping Association,' was formed to oversee and encourage, 'show jumping.' The height for, 'Polo Pony Mares,' was raised to 15hh. Stallions had been raised to 15hh last year.

Protracted negotiations began between the, 'Irish Government and the British Government,' for possession of Tully, (finally settled in 1943), the site of Lord Wavertree's gift, 'of the National Stud'.

December - The 'National Horse Association of Great Britain,' was brought into being to further the welfare of the horse and pony and the interests of horse and pony owners and breeders. To publish 'Horse Owners' News Sheets,' quarterly and many books and leaflets. (This Association was absorbed by, 'The British Horse Society,' in 1947.)

The 'Cavalry School,' at Netheravon was amalgamated with the, 'Royal Artillery Establishment, at Weedon,' to form the, 'School of Equitation.' Sir Alfred Munnings P.R.A., exhibited, ' A drummer of the 1st Life Guards on a skewbald horse.'

1923 "...the earliest record I have of pony-racing is in 1923 when meetings under the National Pony Turf Club were held at Greenford (Middlesex), Wadebridge (Cornwall) and at Plymouth, Bideford, Bovey Tracy, Dawlish, Crediton, Lambert's Castle (Dorset ...), Glastonbury, Weymouth, Bude and Dartmoor. " ...... "Pony Racing including The Story of Northolt Park", by Leonard Jayne The 'Metropolitan Pony Racing Club,' also came under, 'National Pony Turf Club Rules'.

It was decided to replace the 'Royal Cream Ponies,' (dispose of the whole stud), and use the 'Ascot' Greys or Cleveland Bays for state ceremonies.

December 12th – 'Connemara Pony Breeders Society,' formed. In it's Supplement, 'The National Pony Society,' refers to the, 'Polo Stud Book,' it further mentions 'Mountain Breeds,' Connemara, Dales, Dartmoor, Exmoor, Fell, Highland, New Forest and Welsh.

The title, 'Royal' was restored to the Devon Yeomanry, it became, 'Royal Devon Yeomanry Artillery'

1924 'Master Robert,'(an Irish Hunter who worked in a plough before training,) won The Grand National. The 'Cheltenham Gold Cup,' was introduced. The 'Dartmoor Pony Society,' was formed. April 1st – 'Light Horse Breeding Scheme,' moved to the, 'War Office,' from the Min. of Agriculture.

The Council of the 'National Pony Society,' decide to delete the, 'Polo Gelding Section' 'Polo Jubilee 1874-1924', Hurlingham held a special programme of events, including a Polo Match. The 'National Pony Society,' held a, 'Show and Sale,' at 'Ranelagh,' by kind permission of the Club.

The attention of local councils all over the country was constantly being drawn to the state of the roads, numerous accidents some of them fatal were occurring, because of 'slippery surfaces,' cattle, livestock in general and valuable hunters all required better footholds.

The famous 'Tan-y-Bwlch,' foaled, (sire 'Sahara' N.P.S. stallion 847 and Arab-bred Register p.49)

1925 Britain returned to the Gold Standard. The decision did not bring financial stability as hoped, but led to increasing financial turbulence.

Volume 19 of the, 'National Pony Stud Book,' (covering the years 1925-1927) was rather reduced to save costs. The sections were, Polo and Riding Ponies, Dales, Dartmoors, (a Report of the 'Dartmoor Pony Society,' and detailed list of it's members was included), Exmoor, Fell, Highland, New Forest and Welsh. Missing were, Riding Cob Mares, Judge's Reports, Polo Geldings and Annual Supplements, (the last Annual Supplements were included in Volume 16 and 17 for the years 1919, 1920 and 1921.)

Britain joined the, 'Federation Equestre Internationale.'

'Perfection,' owned by Major J. Harrison, was 'Champion Heavyweight Polo Pony,' at Hurlingham and Ranelagh in 1922, 1923 and 1925.

1926 3rd May - 14th May – The General Strike, (the coal strike had already started.) 'The Devon County Show,' was put back until mid-June owing to the General Strike.

'Pony Racing,' conducted under the, 'Rules of the Pony Turf Club,' came into being. 2nd June – 'Swift and Sure,' (fourth, Derby), was nearly brought down when a dog ran into his path. 'Cannon Ball' No.1 stallion in the 'Connemara Stud Book,' died.

The Hunters' Improvement and National Light Horse Breeding Society,' held in conjunction with the War Office, (whose financial support was greatly appreciated), their annual Spring Show. An exhibition of the types of horses required by the Army was very successful, 'Gun Teams,' from the Royal Artillery and Newly purchased Remounts, Trained Troop Horses from the Cavalry and Newly purchased Remounts were shown in their, 'trained and raw state,' to 'breeders and the public.'

'Canadian Hunter and Light Horse Improvement Society,' founded.

1927 All women aged over 21 were to have the vote in 1928. For the first time, 'The Grand National, and the Derby' are broadcast over the radio. 29th June – A total eclipse of the sun is seen in Britain for the first time in 200 years. On Christmas day, 'The West,' is swept by a terrible blizzard, the worst since 1891.

Greyhound racing is taking Britain by storm, a new track has opened at Wembley Stadium. At Newmarket, the first horse race solely for 'women jockeys' takes place, and is won by Fay Toy owned and ridden by Miss D. Saunders. Britain failed to win the Westchester Cup (Polo), against America at Meadow Brook.

Rex was the first horse to star in his own Western. He was a black Morgan stallion who was the 'King of the Wild Horses,' in the film 'Black Cyclone,' by Hal Roach.

There was an epidemic of 'foot and mouth,' disease, its origins uncertain.

1928 Northolt Park, Middlesex opened, for Pony-racing. It had bars, restaurants, seating and betting facilities. It was not like anything seen before and offered some fifty or sixty days of racing in a season, sadly it seems centralisation led to the disappearance of all meetings in the West. Tattersalls achieved a, 'peak year' for sales, even with 'rises and falls,' in the value of bloodstock.

There was a catastrophe at Hurlingham when a spring-tide coincided with a heavy gale on the 7th of January, and the river burst its banks flooding roads, houses and almost completely covering the Club grounds, leaving almost everything under water.

For the first time horses and riders from, 'die Spanische Reitschule,' gave a brilliant performance during the International Horse Show at Olympia, unfortunately very few understood what they were seeing, and many showed their ignorance by applauding at the wrong time or even laughing.

Plymouth became a City.

1929 Thursday 24th October, (Black Thursday) – 'The Wall Street Crash' sees $15 billion, wiped off the Stock Market, heralding the depression, later President Roosevelt's, 'New Deal,' publicly funding building projects provided employment.

1st November – 'The Pony Club,' was inaugurated by, 'The Institute of the Horse,' (formed by a few retired cavalry officers), as it's Junior Branch, whose actual origin is a little vague. An exam for an Instructor's Certificate, in Equitation was introduced to improve knowledge and care for the horse.

A, 'Bill' to abolish, 'stag hunting,' sponsored by the R.S.P.C.A. Was "talked out," (run out of time.) 22nd March – a record 66 runners for the, 'National,' turned out, not all looked capable of competing. 2nd July – Newmarket, 'The Totalisator,' method of betting was inaugurated, see New Zealand 1889.

'The Masters of Hounds Association,' passed a new rule, 'forbidding ladies to ride against men,' rendering them ineligible to ride except in races confined to their own sex.

1930 Dorothy Brooke, wife of a distinguished cavalry officer, arrived in Cairo and began her search for by now, 'old horses and mules,' sold by the army after the 1914-18 war, (to the local population), and still working, often in the most desperate conditions. Interest was growing in, 'Decrepit Horse Traffic,' the exportation of old and unwanted horses. Ada Cole founded in 1927, 'The International League Against the Exportation of Horses for Butchery,' later renamed, 'International League for the Protection of Horses.'

Attacks on 'deer hunting,' in the West Country had been made so the 'British Field Sports Society,' was formed, some thought it only a matter of time before fox-hunting was targeted.

Interest in, 'show jumping,' began to wane, courses for competitors were always the same and improvements were not encouraged. The crowds were not coming and the 'Gate' was dwindling.

'Breeders throughout the country have intimated that it has been a very bad foaling year,' ( N.P.S.)

1931 Early in the year Austria's largest bank the, 'Credit-Anstalt', collapsed, this triggered the financial crisis in Europe, German banks felt the first shock, America and Britain were not immune and panic withdrawals from London led in September to abandonment of the, 'Gold Standard.'

3rd June – the Derby, (won by ), is watched by many in the their own homes as the, 'Baird Television Company,' in co-operation with the B.B.C., televised the race for the first time. The National Pony Society added a, 'Young Stock Register, 1-112' to it's Supplement for 1931.

'Easter Hero', twice Gold Cup winner, (owned by American millionaire Jock Whitney), was later transported to America, it took nine days. Hector Skyrme former National Hunt jockey and head lad tells in, 'Tales of the Old Horsemen ('by Jennifer Davis), the delightful story of Easter Hero.

15th July – Devon Airport, (at Roborough), was officially opened by H.R.H. The Prince of Wales.

1932 'Phar Lap,' bred in New Zealand, (sire English-bred 'Night Raid'), bought for 100 guineas by Mr. David Davis and later sent to Australia where he won every trophy possible. In America, where his prize money had now reached £66,450 he mysteriously died at 2.30 p.m. of colic, perhaps poisoned.

In a sale by auction, (following the death of Sir John Rutherford), 'Solario,' selling for 47,000 guineas became the property of several breeders a, 'Syndicated Stallion,' thus allowing the horse to be retained in this country when it might otherwise have been sold abroad.

Viscount Knutsford on, 'wire' .... "As late as Nineteen-thirty-two I can remember a glorious twenty minutes over a celebrated vale with no thought of wire at all......

'International Horse Show' -.... Commandant Wallon on Taime, this perfect combination, when they led the ride of the Cadre Noir, (a selected group of horsemen of the Cavalry School, Saumur, France who practice. 'High School Riding,' in accordance with the classical French tradition.)

1933 30th January – Hitler became Germany's Chancellor of the Exchequer. 27th February – the German parliament building in Berlin, the Reichstag, was set on fire. It has been said that this fire was an excuse for, 'the suspending of Civil Liberties,' in Germany.

At 'Olympia,' the 'International Horse Show,' various differences of opinion resulted in, 'no show in 1933'. It was still obligatory for ladies to ride side-saddle for showing purposes, in for instance Hunter Classes, this also applied to Richmond, the Royal Dublin Horse Show and many others.

Kipling Cotes Derby, a flat race held on the Wolds, in the East Riding of Yorkshire, on the third Thursday every March, (first held in 1519 it has an interesting history), the first lady to compete was Mrs. Burkinshaw in 1933, riding side-saddle and at nearly sixty years old, she came second.

"Hi–yo, Silver -Away!," the masked Lone Ranger and his horse, 'Silver,' created for the radio, was soon turned into comic strips, books, films and a television series

1934 1st July – in time for the 1935 season. Point-to-point came directly under the jurisdiction of the National Hunt Committee. Growing differences between, the Committee's of the, 'Masters of Hounds', and the National Hunt,' led to the formation of a, 'Joint Advisory Committee, (comprising three members from each group), to regularise Point-to-point racing and stop dubious practices.

The 'International Horse Show,' at Olympia staged a parade of twenty four, 'Old War Horses,' that had seen service in the Great War, Mrs Brooke, sent home a horse, (from Cairo), to represent the, 'five thousand,' rescued by her, and made possible by a donation of £1,000 from the Leamington and Warwickshire R.S.P.C.A. "Warrior," of 'My Horse Warrior,' fame was there.

Nothholt Park, (opened in 1928 for Pony-racing) added to its list of facilities, 'an artificial watering system all round the track,' installed because the ground was so hard in summer.

'Dressage Tests,' were introduced for British Riders to encourage better horsemanship.

1935 The pony Club Saddle was developed. Its deeper seat automatically ensured that the rider was brought forward into the correct sitting position. The pattern for the tree was filed at Pony Club Headquarters and all saddles built to this design were entitled to carry the words, 'Pony Club Approved Tree' stamped on the stirrup bar.

With the mechanisation of various army units in Egypt, the question of surplus 'cavalry and artillery horses,' arose again. And again it was decided to sell them to the local population. Fortunately, Mrs. Brooke was alerted and through her contacts was able to get the order rescinded.

Champion The Wonder Horse, was Gene Autry's chestnut, with a white blaze and four white stockings. 'Tumbling Tumbleweeds,' his first film started a career lasting some eighteen years.

National Velvet, based on Enid Bagnold's book, was an amazing horse with a natural ability to jump. He was won in a raffle by a young girl and she rode him to success in the Grand National.

1936 20th January - at 11.55p.m. King George V died 11th December – Edward VIII Abdicates and his brother King George VI succeeds to the throne. July – Outbreak of the Spanish Civil War.

Never before had so many first-class polo players been in London at the same time. The occasion was the defence of the Westchester Cup. The polo was of exceptional interest and the British Broadcasting Corporation, broadcast a running commentary on polo for the first time. England lost.

At the Olympic Games in Berlin, Germany the 'first torch relay,' which began in Greece and ended at the site of the Games took place. Lady Yule paid all the expenses for our competing Army Teams.

'Golden Miller,' won five consecutive Gold Cups from 1932-6, the Grand National in 1934 and it was hoped he would win again in 1935, but according to his jockey, (G. Wilson), at the fence after Valentine's, he stuck his toes in, made no effort to jump and threw his jockey over his head.

1937 12th May – King George VI, used 'Windsor Greys,' to draw the Coronation Coach.

Interest had been growing for some time in, 'Haute Ecole,' but it was not well understood. Only the 'Spanish Riding School,' at Vienna and the 'French Cavalry School,' at Saumur teach what could be termed an, 'art form.' Instructors devote their lives to the work. The 'test,' set for the, 'International Horse Show,' in 1935, 6, and 7 was much too advanced for its purpose.

Two 'Dressage and Best Trained Horse,' Competitions were introduced at the, 'International Horse Show,' giving people an opportunity to learn and test their horses against others.

Northolt Park introduced as an experiment, 'a running-commentary,' (with permission of the stewards), on pony-races. It proved very popular with the public, and received little opposition.

In August there was serious flooding and severe thunderstorms in South Devon. 'Jimmy Brown,' cleared, '7 foot 4 in. ,' to give Lady Wright, the record for a lady rider at, 'Olympia.'

1938 30th September – 'The Munich Agreement,' handed a large part of Czechoslovakia, (an independent state), to Germany. It was signed by Britain, France Italy and Germany. This policy was described by politicians as 'appeasement,' as it tried to satisfy the demands of Germany. It would not end well.

The Association for the Improvement of the Breed of New Forest Ponies and the Burley and District Pony and Cattle Society amalgamated under the title of, 'The New Forest Pony Breeding and Cattle Society.' The 'British Show Hack and Cob Association' was founded.

'Maharaj Prem Singh,' joined the Jodhpur Lancers in 1937 and in the following year played polo in Bombay for the, 'Rajpipla Cup,' so began the career of one of Polo's most gifted players. "If you gave him a donkey he'd sit on a donkey and play polo – he was that good," said Brigadier V.P. Singh. (Polo in India, a Tribute to Maharaj Prem Singh, Lustre Press Roli Books)

The Northolt Derby, (Pony-racing), was won by 'Flying Jib,' and televised by the B.B.C.

1939 31st March – in the wake of Germany's invasion of Czechoslovakia, the British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain abandoned the policy of, 'appeasement.' On 24th August, a guarantee of support for Poland was given by Britain and France, if her independence was threatened. Germany invaded Poland on 1st September and bombs fell on air and naval bases. Britain and France declared war on Germany on the 3rd September.

Britain was the largest consumer of tinned foods, depending on imports for more than 60% of its food supply and 80% of it's wheat. (Hurlingham, Ranelagh and Roehampton became allotments.)

With growing emphasis on mechanisation, Britain was the only power with a fully motorised Army. Jumping was forgotten, the B.S.J.A., carried on but decided not to make changes until after the war. A 'Riding Establishments Act,' was passed to protect horses but went largely unnoticed.

The cleaning of 'tack,' was considered essential after riding, but now had to be severely curtailed.

1940 9th April- Germany invaded Denmark, Norway, on 10th Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, and France. 27th May- 4th June, 'Dunkirk,' 350,000 British and French soldiers evacuated across the channel.

17th June - Monday at 3.48pm, the requisitioned Cunard cruise-liner, 'Lancastria,' came under fire from enemy aircraft, while embarking troops and civilians during the evacuation of France. Within 20 minutes she sank, taking with her an estimated 4,000 lives.

6th July – First enemy bombs fall on Plymouth. 7th July – the second serious attack. 10th July - 31st October, 'Battle of Britain,' was fought over the, 'Channel and South East England.'

Lord Rosebery succeeded Lord d'Aberon as President of the, 'Thoroughbred Breeders' Association,' and in this capacity, using his considerable knowledge and skills was able to ensure that, 'racing and breeding,' was carried on throughout the 1939-45 war. The army took some 10,000 horses, most went with Yeomanry Regiments to the Middle East.

1941 20th and 22nd March – Plymouth was subjected to devastating raids, laying waste to the eastern end of the city, some 20,000 properties were either destroyed or damaged. On April 22nd and 23rd and 24th there were more terrible raids leaving, 'more heavy casualties,' and Plymouth unrecognisable.

15th May – The Gloster E28/39 Britain's experimental single-seat, 'jet fighter,' made its first flight, and proved that the 'jet engine.' (Frank Whittle's new engine), was an alternative to the, 'piston engine'. Tests had begun as early as 1937, and the Air Ministry took up the project in 1940.

7th December – Japanese carrier-based planes attacked Pearl Harbor, (the American Naval Base in Hawaii), destroying half the American fleet, and bringing the United States into the conflict.

June - clothes rationing, each person was issued with, '66 coupons,' (food was rationed in January 1940 but was now more severe) and there was, 'conscription for unmarried women between 20-30'.

9th June -The last, 'mounted actions,' fought by British Cavalry, (Yorkshire Dragoons), in Lebanon.

1942 14th February – Army captain Patrick Heenan was executed in Singapore for being, 'a spy for the Japanese.' The next day Sunday 15th Lt-General Arthur Percival, (with a newly arrived contingent of men), marched out under a 'Union Jack,' to give up his force of 120,000 and surrender to Lt.- General Tomoyuki Yamashita. Singapore had only been prepared for an attack by sea, not land.

4th and 5th June – 'The Battle of Midway,' unbeknown to the Japanese, their navy's 'top secret', messages were being 'read,' by American intelligence, this ended their supremacy in the Pacific. 21st June – Whilst at a meeting with President Roosevelt, Churchill learnt of the, 'fall of Tobruk,' (later to be recaptured on 13th November), after the victory of, 'El Alamein.'

14th May – Anthony Eden, Secretary of State for War, in a broadcast asked for men between 15 and 65 to become, 'Local Defence Volunteers', in July these huge numbers became, 'The Home Guard'

'The Veterinary Education Trust', (an independent body), was formed starting valuable research.

1943 February – The siege of Stalingrad ended, (it had begun in August 1942), with 80% of the city in ruins and nearly 150,000 German troops dead. 14th June – after a respite from, 'air attack,' Plymouth and Plympton received a nasty reminder and 'Canadian fire-fighters,' stationed in the city were in action with the, 'National Fire Service.'

The Dickin Medal, for gallantry in war, (the animals Victoria Cross), awarded through the P.D.S.A. The Royal Windsor Horse Show started as a small, 'one day event,' to raise funds for the Red Cross. 4th April – Racing at,' Longchamp, occupied France,' despite a British bombing raid beforehand.

It was finally decided that the British Government should hand over possession of the land and buildings at Tully on 31st December, that the bloodstock be transferred to England and the British Government would pay the Irish Government an agreed sum in lieu of rent between 1922-1943.

The greatest threat to, 'hunting,' was the almost impossible task of continuing to feed hounds.

1944 6th June, D-Day – the long delayed, 'Operation Overlord,' (Anglo-American), was launched, 156,000 Allied Troops landed, largely undetected on the beaches of Normandy. 1st November –' The Home Guard,' were stood down.

A meeting of, 'The British Show Jumping Association,' (the members then numbering some 400), was held to reform and improve this, 'great sport.' It was obvious that, 'better horsemanship and type of horse,' should be encouraged and at the same time greater enjoyment for the rider and the public.

'Pharis,' foaled in 1936, ( had won all the classic races in France in 1940), was returned to his box in the, 'Fresnay le Buffard Stud,' he had been, 'a prize,' taken by the Germans. 'Tommy Hitchcock,' America's finest polo player was killed in England, in a flying accident.

Volume 24 of, 'The National Pony Society,' published including Supplements for 1940/41/42/43. 1st January – The Irish Government took possession of, 'Tully' later to form their own National Stud.

1945 February – 'The Yalta Conference, (in Crimea, Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin)', marked the high point of co-operation between Russia and America, in August a period termed the 'Cold War' began. February – 'Dresden', (in Germany), was the target for, 'incendiary raids', thousands were killed. 30th April – Hitler, (in Germany), realising victory was not possible committed suicide. April, (in Italy) – Mussolini while trying to escape to the mountains, was shot,

8th May– every street, village and town in the country, celebrated, 'Victory in Europe,' VE-Day.

6th August – the American bomber, 'Enola Gay,' dropped an, 'atomic bomb,' on Hiroshima, (Japan.) (9th Aug. 2nd atomic bomb on Nagasaki),15th August – World War II ends as the Japanese surrender.

Lady Wentworth published her book on the, 'Arabian Horse.' The horse has almost ceased to be used in the British Army, (earlier, in the Middle East and Italy.) 'The Kings Life Guard,' reintroduced horses, during the war they had been dismounted and in khaki.

1946 January – in a converted Methodist Church, an organisation known as the, United Nations was born. 5th July – Britain holds a, 'General Election,' 26th July - 'Clement Attlee,' becomes Prime Minister.

'British-American Air Services Ltd.', begin to think about, 'air transport for horses', a small fleet of planes built to the British Model, is ordered.

'The British Spotted Horse and Pony Society,' hoping to establish a pure breed, have a stud register. 'Eden Valley Pony Racing and Trotting Association,' formed to oversee the sport. There was a terrific rush to breed in Ireland, as demand outstripped supply.

Stainless steel bits, (no cleaning needed), have now become the norm, but there is a shortage of all forms of saddlery. Anything, 'made from nickel,' to be avoided as it may, 'break unexpectedly.' The Americans had occupied, 'Aintree,' but hard work allowed the, 'National,' to run smoothly. As 'Thank You,' for sanctuary Queen Wilhelmina, (Netherlands), gave the King, 'five grey geldings,'

1947 15th August – India gained its Independence. Winter one of the worst on record, freezing cold, raging blizzards, the Thames froze at Windsor.

For the first time horses were flown across the Atlantic, American Overseas Airways, adapted a 'Skymaster,' to carry them from Shannon to Burbank, California, (other horses left from Heath Row the journey took 29 and 30 hours respectively), the horses were not upset by this mode of travel.

'The National Horse Association of Great Britain,' and the 'Institute of the Horse and Pony Club Ltd.' amalgamated as one society to be called, 'The British Horse Society.' 'The Golden Horse Society of Great Britain,' was founded.

Volume 25 of The National Pony Society, (1945-47) stallions 2469- 2655, mares 7954-8474, also contains, 'Supplements for 1944,45,46 and 47, together with Young Stock 253-274.' Everything about, 'hunting,' costs about double what it did in 1938.

1948 1st January – 'Nationalisation,' of the railways came into effect. June – all traffic into, 'West Berlin,' was halted and the city's very survival was under threat, over time the Allies, 'airlifted in,' more than two and a quarter million tons of supplies.

Shows that have reappeared, 'International', now held at the White City, (was National Horse Show, 1947), Royal Richmond Horse Shows, The Hunters' Improvement Society's, ( Shrewsbury), and The Royal Agricultural Show at Lincoln, for the first time since 1939.

March – The Secretary for, 'The Abolition of Cruel Sports,' revealed that between three and four hundred members of 'The House of Commons,' were prepared to vote in favour of a, 'Private Bill to abolish hunting,' as soon as it could be introduced.

The Shetland Pony Stud Book Society, sponsored 'pedigree stallions,' for location to, 'The Isles.' 18th August - 'a twelve year old apprentice jockey,' won at Haydock, his name was Lester Piggott.

1949 The Government, 'devalued the pound sterling,' (the economy was weak), this led to distress.

February – 'The Protection of Animals, (Hunting and Coursing Prohibition) Bill', excluded fox hunting but called for the abolition of coursing, and deer, otter and badger hunting. 25th February – a procession of farmers mounted and on foot, dressed for the chase, paraded with banners in protest, (against the bill) trough the streets of the West End. The Bill was defeated.

With a view to encouraging our riders after the disappointing, 1948 Olympic Games, the Duke of Beaufort offered to stage a 'Three-Day-Event,' on his estate at Badminton. Newbury, one of the best courses in the country, re-opened after the war. 'British Heavy Horse,' population was being seriously depleted by slaughter for food consumption.

13th - 15th September – the new, 'Horse of the Year Show' at, 'Harringay Arena' (Haringey), was an indoor spectacle of International calibre, primarily, 'a show jumping festival.'

1950 'The Manual of Horsemanship,' edited by Colonel Cubitt was published. Historically it was a development of, 'Notes on Equitation and Horsemanship,' (added to and revised regularly over the years), written by Colonel Hurrell an Instructor at the Royal Artillery School of Weedon and presented by him to, 'The Institute of the Horse and Pony Club.' at the beginning of the war.

Polo in England has had a hard struggle, 'Ham Polo Club.' was the first to open after the war at a new ground in, ''. An English side was invited to the Argentine, in the winter of 1949-50 they were able to return with about 13 high-class Argentinian Polo Ponies, and later import more, other Polo Clubs were opening and some well-bred English ponies were being trained on.

The 'Basuto Pony,' (South African), is practically extinct as a breed, having been crossed with so many other types that he has lost most of his original characteristics.

'Best and Neatest Coster's turn-out,' there was, 'Black Billy 37 years,' and still game, (International).

1951 Miss Jane Drummond-Hay won at Badminton on 'Happy Knight' however in 1952, ladies were not eligible to compete in the, 'Three-day-Event,' at the Olympic Games. Wilfred White riding, 'Nizefella,' (amongst others), will once again represent G.B., at Helsinki.

For the first time at the, 'International Show,' the 'Juvenile Championship,' was judged under, 'International Rules,'and a longer and better course was provided.

The 'Grand National,' was extraordinary. Thirty-six horses started, only three finished and one of those had been re-mounted, 'Nickel Coin,' was the winner.

The Oxford v Cambridge, Polo Match took place for the first time since the war. London County Council compulsorily purchased Hurlingham for use as a 'public recreation ground.'

March - a census of the horse population published by the Ministry of Agriculture, showed a total of 361,000 horses, of which 252,000 including ordinary stock, were used for agricultural purposes.

1952 6th February - King George VI died.

3rd August – Olympic Games at Helsinki, our jumping team, (D.N. Stewart riding Aherlow, W.H. White riding Nizefella, and H.M. Llewellyn riding Foxhunter) won our only Gold Medal.

Interest in the harness horse has grown gradually since the 1950's, but in the years after the Second World War it seemed that the, 'road horse,' had indeed gone for ever. Then 'driving,' became a sport.

Maharaj Prem Singh was invited by L. Arthur Lucas to play with his team, 'Woolmers Park,' in the Gold Cup at Deauville, France. He made his first trip to England but because of injuries was unable to play in the World Cup, however his performances in England were much admired.

12th March – The Hunters' Improvement Society's, Spring Stallion Show, (on the, 'first fine day,' for many a year), had seventy seven thoroughbred stallions on show. The Animal Health Trust id now established with a research station at Newmarket.

Imogen Mary Muntz died on 7th August 1952