Byron publishes memories of the Central Kentucky Horse Show Circuit

Bath County native, Tom Byron has spent the last nine years gathering information and conducting interviews for the book he recently had published titled, It’s Hoss Show Time.

From his own personal recollections to interviews with showmen and women who were part of the Central Kentucky Horse Show Circuit, Byron’s book tells the story of those who shared his passion for the sport of showing horses.

“A horse show was the first sporting event I attended, and I’ve been fascinated ever since. The annual shows at the Lions Club Park, and later the ones at Flemingsburg and the Lexington Junior League were my window to a fascinating world. Little did I know then, at the age of 15, I would join that exciting life. Several years ago, at an Association banquet, it was suggested that I write a book about the history of the Central Kentucky Horse Show Association, an effort I have labored on for some time”, Byron said.

It’s Hoss Show Time is the result of that labor and covers the years from the very first show in Owingsville through the years to 1970.

“I have limited the history, with a few exceptions, to the time from the start of the Association in 1947 to the show season of 1970, a period of 24 years. To go further would be a massive undertaking due to the explosion of shows and people showing in the 70s and 80s. I also have written about the true amateurs showing in that time. The exhibitors, who in many cases, kept their show stock in their back yards, are included as well”, Byron noted and went on to add, “Covered also, are the mid-level trainers who diligently took a load of horses to the next CKHSA show week after week.”

The book not only relates the stories of those who were in the show ring but also such notables as Rex Moore, a Mt. Sterling leather craftsman whose halters and tail sets adorned many of the circuits champion horses and the talents of farriers like Burt Carl, Bud Claxton and Lonnie Goodin.

The material in Byron’s book will also appeal to those who have never attended a horse show as many of the memories relate to past family histories as well as the history of many great stallions.

With hundreds of names mentioned, there are sure to be many family connections to be made.

For example, Fleming County citizens, Billy Calvert, Carolyn Johnson, Martha Money or Nicholas Countians such as the DeAtley’s or Bethels most noted horseman, Jim Blount Robertson are highlighted in the book.

In Montgomery County there was Montgomery Mc, known as the county’s great stallion and is buried near another great breeding stallion, Bourbon Chief. Both are buried on a farm on Hinkston Creek owned by George Stone.

An example of interesting stories is those of Nat Young and Ben Wilson. Byron writes, “Of all the regular characters that came to the show in those early days, none were more unique than these two, Nat Young who was a chain smoking, wizened hunchback from Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, an intimate of the well-bred and well-heeled and was a virtual encyclopedia of standardbred and saddlebred pedigrees. Nat would ride the morning train to Lexington, then try to find someone from Mt. Sterling to give him a ride home after the show. Nat, with his shopworn suit and tie and equally-tired fedora, was in great contrast to Ben Wilson sporting a massive white beard and bib overalls and walking staff. Ben would be on the rail ever night of the show. Much lore has surrounded his mode of transportation to the show”, Byron said.

An article in the 50th Anniversary Program is included in the chapter and goes on to tell more about the notorious character of one Ben Wilson.

Byron also talks about the first time he saw a man with blue skin who attended a horse show and relates tales of some murder and mayhem.

The book also includes snippets and photographs of former judges, photographers and ring announcers that make up the history of the Central Kentucky Horse Show Association during those early years.

Although many suggestions came to mind for the books title, it was Byron’s wife Judy who decided the perfect name should be, It’s Hoss Show Time, which is attributed to Jimmy Richardson’s memorable show ring call.

When it came time to select a printing company for his book, Byron chose to go with a local company 24-Hours Books, Inc., an on-demand publishing company in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky.

“Judy and I both are very happy with the printing company 24 Hour Books Inc., they have Been a great help and very patient and have done an outstanding job printing our book”.

It’s Hoss Show Time can be purchased in hardback or soft cover, by contacting the author at 606-674-6096.

Phil Meehan, owner of Sharp Farms Market and Deli, talks with author Tom Byron about some of the stories included in Byron’s book, notably the chapter about Sharpsburg native Julian Cunningham.