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THE AHHS

ABOUT THE AHHS

The American Hackney Horse, its owners, breeders and trainers are represented by two key organizations — The American Hackney Horse Society and The AHHS Foundation — each with its own specific purpose:

 

Organization

The incorporation of the American Hackney Horse Society took place early in 1891. The idea occurred to owners of Hackney horses throughout the western states and indeed, residents of several parts of the country had actually taken steps to form a similar society some months prior to the organization of the AHHS. It was not until advances were made to the Council of the English Hackney Society by the directors of this association that action in the United States was formally ratified by the authorities of the parent society, and assurance of affiliation obtained.


photo of woman driving Hackney Pony in show ring
photo of woman driving Hackney Pony

The Society Today

The headquarters of the American Hackney Horse Society is located in Versailles, Kentucky. It exists to maintain a current registry of the Hackney; to compile and publish a stud book of the Hackney horse and Hackney pony; and to ensure the proper transfer of the certificate of registration. It endeavors to promote the breeding of quality Hackney horses and Hackney ponies; to create interest in the breed; and encourages exhibitors to support horse shows by showing their Hackneys in classes offered. The Society offers several programs for exhibitors to participate in which encompass all ages. A 15-member board of directors from across the country oversees the operation of the Society.

 

Mission

  • To maintain an accurate and current registry of the Hackney breed
  • To compile and publish a Stud Book of the Hackney Horse and Hackney Pony
  • To ensure the prompt and proper transfer of the Certificate of Registration
  • To promote the breeding of quality Hackney Horses and Hackney Ponies
  • To further the interest of the Hackney breed and encourage breeders to register their Hackney Horses and Hackney Ponies
  • To encourage exhibitors to support horse shows by showing their Hackney Horses and Hackney Ponies
  • To encourage fair and horse show managers throughout the country to incorporate sufficient Hackney classes to justify the increased showing of Hackneys


photo of Hackney Horse having winning picture taken at Devon Country Fair & Horse Show

AMERICAN HACKNEY HORSE SOCIETY FOUNDATION (AHHSF)


The American Hackney Horse Society Foundation, Inc., (AHHSF) was established in 1994 with contributions from the American Hackney Horse Society and a group of Hackney enthusiasts, their focus being; to preserve the past, promote the future and improve the breed of the American Hackney.

 

  • With this in mind, the outlined goals of the AHHSF are:
  • To inform the general public about the exhibition, use, and history of the American Hackney
  • Work toward the general improvement of the breed
  • To encourage safe equestrian activities and educate youth with respect to safe and proper horsemanship
  • To promote the formation of youth organizations
  • To disseminate educational materials and award scholarships to participants in youth programs

 

Making A Difference

In the following you will find endowments currently established with the AHHSF. Should you wish to support the Foundation in a monetary fashion, please remember that the AHHS Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit corporation; therefore, all donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. We encourage you to participate in the support of the breed by making a donation to the Foundation or the fund that interests you the most.


The National Day of the Hackney  — October 3rd

Mark your calendars and make plans to celebrate National Day of the Hackney!! While we believe the Hackney should be celebrated each and every day, we join together to collectively celebrate the breed we all know and love, annually on October 3rd. The National Day of the Hackney is an official United States Holiday, which was applied for by the AHHS Foundation. The holiday was given the seal of approval in 2022 and since then we have enjoyed celebrating this amazing breed on a national scale.


photo of man driving Hackney Harness Pony in show ring

The 'DRIVING SPIRIT" Joe Crawford Harrod" Memorial Grant

photo of Joe Crawford Harrod driving Hackney Roadster Pony at the World's Championship Horse Show

2025 Joe Crawford Harrod Memorial Grant

Open to Hackney, Saddlebred, Morgan & Road Horse Enthusiasts


Driving Spirit, the Joe Crawford Harrod Memorial Grant, has been established to support active members of the American Hackney Horse Society, aged 21-30, with a desire to develop their career or personal interest in Horsemanship and Showmanship. Funds may be used for equine industry educational programs, internships or any Show Horse Industry program/career endeavor.

 

Potential use, within the spirit of the grant, is unlimited and may include:

  • Instructor — Riding, Driving
  • Farrier
  • Harness Saddlery Maker
  • Internships — Industry Related
  • Judge — Learner & Ongoing Education
  • Photographer/Videographer
  • Reporter/Writer — Industry Media
  • Show Announcer
  • Show Steward
  • Show Manager
  • Show Secretary
  • Horse Transportation
  • Horse Trainer /Assistant Trainer
  • Veterinary / Equine Therapy
  • Equine Dentistry

 

Intention:

Recognize and support an individual who portrays the characteristics and traits that Joe Crawford Harrod strived for and pursued.


Applicant must demonstrate:

  • Excellent Sportsmanship.
  • Value of Camaraderie & Friendship.
  • Value of Teamwork & Confidence-Building.
  • Care and Compassion for Ponies/Horses.


Requirements:

  • Must be an active member of the American Hackney Horse Society.
  • May be an amateur or professional.
  • Must participate in the Show Horse Industry.
  • Limited to 2 lifetime grant awards.

 

To apply for the 2025 Grant:

Along with at least 2 recommendations from active participants in the Show Horse Industry, the applicant must submit a written essay and/or a short video outlining:

  1. Purpose of application, including program, school, internship, work-study, or other endeavor for which the applicant will use the Grant Funds
  2. Goals the applicant will achieve by the use of the Grant Funds.
  3. Amount the applicant is requesting (up to $5,000*)
  4. Contact Information (address, phone, e-mail)
  5. Submit to sueharrod90@gmail.com

      * May vary based on applications

 

Contributions:

If you would like to contribute to the Joe Crawford Harrod Memorial Grant Fund with a gift of any size, you may donate online by clicking here or via check to the American Hackney Horse Society Foundation/Harrod Grant. Please specify Joe Crawford Harrod Memorial Grant Fund as the program to which you would like to donate. Your contribution is fully tax-deductible.



The AHHS Foundation Scholarship

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE $2,500 AHHS FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP


The American Hackney Horse Society Foundation Scholarship will be awarded to high school graduates on the basis of submitted evidence of academic success, financial need, extracurricular activities (including community service), involvement with Hackney Horses and/or Ponies and personal references. An interview may also be required.


Completed application, reference letters and a photo suitable for publication must be received by July 15th of the year in which the applicant will be an incoming freshman college student.


Note: See checklist on application. The $2,500 scholarship money administered by the American Hackney Horse Society Foundation will be paid directly to the institution, university, or college for educational expenses.


A scholarship will be awarded one time only to any individual. All information submitted with the application will be held in strict confidence. No application will be returned and the decision of the Scholarship Selection Committee shall be final.


The scholarship application can be found by using this link:

https://irp.cdn-website.com/3d005c6f/files/uploaded/app-AHHSFscholarship.pdf


All applications should be sent to:

American Hackney Horse Society Foundation, Inc.

c/o Mindy Preston

mpreston19@msn.com

Call Mindy at (317) 408-5614 with any questions.

 

The AHHSF Youth Medallion National Winners Educational Scholarship Fund

Youth Medallion National Champions receive an educational scholarship to the accredited college or university of their choice upon winning their respective divisions at their national finals.

 

AHHS FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS


Mindy Preston, President

Noblesville, IN


Matthew Schuckert, Vice President

Upton, KY


Heather Boodey, Treasurer

Franklinton, NC


Denise Trethaway, Secretary

Gastonia, NC


Sheila Clouse

Mazon, IL


Nicole Laver Freedman

Midway, KY


Roger Sims

Harrodsburg, KY


Mark Wahl

Linwood, MI


Sue Harrod

Enfield, CT


Stacey Swalla

Columbia, MO


Lynne Trenery

Chino, AZ

photo of Hackney Ponies in pasture

REGIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Michigan Hackney/ASPC/AMHR Association

James Bruggink, President


Lambert Junior Schut, contact

6108 64th Avenue

Hudsonville, MI 49426

Office/Home: (616) 875-7151

 

Mid-American Hackney Association

Brad Kinsinger, President

(319) 541-2404


Melvin Jennings, Vice President

(515) 681-7246


Mardi Griffith, Secretary

(515) 371-3885


Roger Griffith, Treasurer


Kevin Ireland, Board Member

(319) 310-9762


Mike Herron, Michelle Herron, Sue Kinsinger, Board Members

 

Mid-West Hackney Association

Andrew Lamps, President

Peru, IL (815) 712-7702


Scott Sells, 1st Vice President

Clinton, IA (563) 242-2226


Rick Medd, 2nd Vice President

Brooklyn, WI (608) 455-1661


Sheila Clouse, Secretary


Vern Houston

Columbus, MI (586) 727-1151

www.midwesthackney.com

New York Hackney Association

Maureen Quackenbush

2858 State Route 12

Sauquoit, New York 13456

Home: (315) 737-8210

 

Northeastern Hackney Association

Page Champion, President

Braeburn Equestrian Center

75 Harris Rd.

Valatie, NY 12184

(518) 392-0503


Courtney Cahill, Secretary/Treasurer

 

Ohio Hackney Association

David Estis, President


Amber Estis, Secretary

2336 Burnside Rd N.W.

Pataskala, OH 43062

Home: (740) 739-5400

www.ohiohackneyassociation.com

 

South Central Hackney Association

Charlotte Carter, President

Norman Bray, Vice President

Colleen Bray, Treasurer

Dawn Kelsch, Secretary


Directors, Term Ending 2026: Heath Schmidt, Jim Davis, Charlotte Carter, Roger Sims

Directors, Term Ending 2027: Laura Schmidt, Roy Hershberger, Blair Cecil, Colleen Bray

Directors, Term Ending 2028: Beth Jenkins, Dawn Kelsch, Mandy Bray-Ferreby


www.southcentralhackney.com

Southeastern Hackney Association

Denise Trethaway, President

3300 Randolph Park Circle

Gastonia, NC 28056

(912) 399-1766


Ryan Barlowe, Vice President

4346 W. Church Street

Farmville, NC 27342

(252) 258-1251


Lynsey Parker, Treasurer

415 Mather Green Ave., Unit K

Charlotte, NC 28203

(843) 906-0256


Megan Whitby, Secretary
19238 Stone Brk.

Chapel Hill, NC 27517

(919) 389-2624


www.southeasternhackney.com


Wisconsin Hackney Association

John Owens, President

5976 Courtney Plummer Road

Winneconne, WI 54986

Home: (920) 582-4468

Cell: (320) 260-5112

Regional Association Contact Form

BECOME AN AHHS VOLUNTEER

YOU CAN HELP!

 

There are many ways you can help the American Hackney Horse Society by volunteering your time and expertise. Opportunities vary from time to time, but you may be able to assist by serving key roles at horse shows and other events, or by becoming involved with your local and regional associations. Contact us to learn more.


Become an AHHS Volunteer
photo of woman driving Hackney Horse in competition

AHHS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 Current Officers:

President—Maureen Quackenbush

Vice President—Tom Lowry

Secretary—Rose Marie Wheeler

Treasurer—Alex Curry

Term Expiring March 2027

 

Randy Harper

3784 Shelbyville Road

Shelbyville, KY 40065

502-633-9090

 

Andrew Wood

14 Summer Street

Swanzey, NH 03446

603-352-8357

 

Amanda Simpson

10599 NW 78th Ave.

Johnston, IA 50131

515-490-1240

 

Karen Waldron

290 Boners Run Road

Shawsville, VA 24162

540-268-5359

 





Term Expiring March 2028

 

Bryan Earehart

7831 Alcorn Road

Oak Ridge, NC 27310

734-564-7069


Chris Gantley

6007 Lonetree Way

Maysville, KY 41056

859-221-7079


Amber Kildow

1412 W. County Road 800

N. Springport, IN 47386

765-631-3701


Melissa Moore

P.O. Box 55

Versailles, KY 40383
859-533-6225


Maureen Quackenbush — President

2858 State Route 12
Saquoit, NY 13456

315-542-2974






Term Expiring March 2029

 

Kristen Cater

1201 Montalona Road

Dunbarton, NH 03046

(603) 566-2264

 

Alex Curry — Treasurer

3005 Camp Ernst Lane

Burlington, KY 41005

859-462-7562

 

Rodney Hicks

95 Old Richmond Road

Pittsfield, MA 01201

413-281-2658

 

Tom Lowry — Vice President

5635 Shelbyville Road

Simpsonville, KY 40067

502-664-5078

 

Rose Marie Wheeler — Secretary

12304 Ridge Road

Anchorage, KY 40223

502-938-7650



AHHS COMMITTEES

ANNUAL AWARDS

Steve Kildow, Chair

Alex Curry, Stacey Wright


ANNUAL FINCIAL REVIEW

Alex Curry


BUDGET

Andrew Wood, Chair

Alex Curry


BY-LAWS

Maureen Quackenbush, Chair

Andy Freseth, Randy Harper


UPHA LIAISON/CONVENTION

Maureen Quackenbush, Andy Freseth


ETHICS

Cindy Mugnier, Chair

Candi Aversenti, Vern Houston, Chris Long Schubert, Karen Waldron


EXECUTIVE

Maureen Quackenbush, Randy Harper, Chris Gantley


OPEN COMPETITION/DRESSAGE

Karen Waldron, Chair


NATIONAL BREEDERS' FUTURITY

Amber Kildow, Chair

Vern Houston, Steve Kildow, Melissa Moore

LIMITED BREEDERS' STAKES & AUCTION

Chris Gantley, Chair

Tom Lowry, Vice-Chair

Katy Earehart, Taylor Gregory, Sue Harrod, Rodney Hicks, Steve Kildow, David Yoder, Andy Freseth, Maureen Quackenbush, Hannah Sette, Amber Kildow, Elizabeth Scoggin, Anne-Marie Overstreet, Alyssa Curry


REGIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Andrew Wood, Chair

Tom Lowry


REGISTRY REVIEW/STUD BOOK

Randy Harper, Chair

Tom Lowry


USEF COMMITTEE (appointed by USEF)*

Andy Freseth, Chair

Bob Funkhouser, Randy Harper, Rodney Hicks, Karen Waldron, Maureen Quackenbush, Rose Marie Wheeler, Melissa Wahl, John Wrather


The criteria for athlete appointment to the USEF Committee is set forth below:

"To be considered for a position on the Committee as an Appointed Athlete, the member must have exhibited a Hackney at either the Kentucky State Fair World's Championship Horse Show or the UPHA American Royal National Championship at least one time in the prior 10 years."

NOMINATING

Rodney Hicks, Chair

Steve Kildow, Bryan Earehart, Rose Marie Wheeler


YOUTH MEDALLION

Rose Marie Wheeler, Chair

Amanda Simpson, Kristen Cater


HELPING HACKNEYS EMERGENCY RELIEF FUND

Randy Harper, Chair

Josh Greer, Steve Kildow, Travis Smith


YOUTH/PROMOTIONAL/EDUCATIONAL

Katy Earehart, Chair

Hannah Sette, Paula Harris, Katie Hicks, Karen Waldron


MEMBERSHIP SERVICES & DEVELOPMENT

Amber Kildow, Chair


USEF NATIONAL BREEDS & DISCIPLINES COUNCIL NATIONAL AFFILIATES ADVISORY GROUP

Maureen Quackenbush, Hackney


AHHS BROODMARE HALL OF FAME

Anne Marie Overstreet, Chair

Carl Nichols, Amber Kildow, Tom Lowry, Rose Marie Wheeler

AHHS Board Member Contact Form