LEXINGTON, KY - February 16, 2009 - The American Saddlebred Museum is featuring highlights
from the collection in a special exhibit, Moments of Merit: Select Pieces of Saddlebred History.
During the recent relocation and expansion of the Museum's archives numerous objects of interest
came to light. The time seemed right to expose many of these rediscovered items, along with the
stories behind them, to the public. On view will be an eclectic grouping of art, sculpture,
photographs and memorabilia - many never before offered for public display. In addition we
have honored those who recently donated items to us and placed many of the recently acquired
books, scrapbooks and artwork on display.
The exhibit opening was celebrated with a party at the Museum on Friday, February 13, 2009,
during the 2009 ASHA Annual Convention. Over 300 guests enjoyed complimentary bourbon
tasting by Woodford Reserve, a dine-around among the Museum's displays, the screening
of Saddlebred Stars II and a select live auction, which grossed $37,200.00. Located
on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park, admission to the American Saddlebred Museum
is included with every Horse Park ticket purchase. The Museum is open daily 9-5 from
March 15-October 31 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays November 1-March 14). For more
information contact Museum curator Kim Skipton at
either 859/ 259-2746 or Kim@asbmuseum.org.
LEXINGTON, KY -- Excitement is building as March 2, 2009 marks the mobilization
date for construction of the Showplace for Saddlebreds - the7,000 sq ft addition
onto the American Saddlebred Museum at the Kentucky Horse Park. "This is the day
we have been working toward for the past four years," says Museum President, Laurel
Nelson. "Building design is completed, interior design is well under way and the
capital campaign is almost funded. The addition will be open by the ASHA convention
in February 2010 and ready for WEG when the world arrives in September 2010!"
The addition will divide the Museum into two wings - the John & Dorothy Lenore
Gallery Wing and the Elisabeth M. Goth History Wing. The contemporary style
Gallery wing will feature three new elements that will add both substance and
dimension to the visitor experience at the Museum. The Gaylord Family Changing
Exhibit Gallery will house the Museum's special exhibits; a George Ford Morris
Art Gallery will showcase the Museum's Saddlebred collection by the noted artist,
as well as occasional pieces loaned by members; and a Pathway to the Kentucky
Horse Park's courtyard will allow visitors to enter and exit our facility
inside the Horse Park.
The History Wing will house a newly renovated, state-of-the-art theater, generously
sponsored by James and Misdee Miller. The theater will boast electric glass walls
that are clear when the movie is not running, but turn dark during the run time.
Information regarding a host of additional new features will be released in the
coming weeks as the interior design planning proceeds. Eventually, the newly
relocated archives on the building's lower level will be upgraded, compliments
of Peter and Lynn Via.
"The Saddlebred community has been extremely supportive of this project," says
Tolley Graves, Executive Director of the Museum. "$3.4M has been pledged to-date.
We would like to add several more interactive and entertainment-oriented exhibits,
and, therefore, are still seeking additional funding of $150,000" said Graves.
"It is important that we provide a superlative showcase for our breed during
the upcoming World Games."
Pledges at any level are both welcomed and solicited. For more information,
contact Tolley Graves at 859-259-2746 ext. 304, or visit the Museum's
website at www.asbmuseum.org.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2009 ART AUCTION CATALOG
