Exhibits
Upcoming Events
Sat, Jun 01The StableJun 01, 2024, 8:30 AM – Jun 30, 2024, 4:30 PMThe Stable, 259 N Maple Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA
Sat, Jun 08The Stable Art GalleryJun 08, 2024, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PMThe Stable Art Gallery , 259 N Maple Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA
Exhibit Brochure (outer)
Exhibit Brochure (outer)
Horses of Sable Island, Nova Scotia
The Sable Island horse, a small feral breed located off the coast of Nova Scotia (Canada) has a rich history but faces ongoing conservation challenges such as genetic erosion, low numbers, inbreeding, and climate-related issues.
Introduced to the island in the late 1700s, descending from horses seized by the British during the expulsion of the Acadians, these horses became feral and later faced extinction due to private use, sale for slaughter, and habitat limitations. In 1960, the Canadian government legally protected these horses in their feral state, and subsequent long-term studies revealed their genetic distinctiveness. Recognized as the official horse of Nova Scotia in 2008, the Sable Island horses reside on the island.
Studies have revealed their genetic uniqueness, emphasizing the importance of their conservation in maintaining overall genetic diversity in the Canadian horse population. Characterized by their small stature, dark coloration, and distinct physical features resembling Iberian horses, they remain unmanaged and legally shielded from human interference. Their population, estimated at 500 in 2018, has fluctuated over the years.
Horses of Iceland
The Icelandic horses are descendants of Vikings’ companions. Their ancestors were probably taken to Iceland by Viking Age Scandinavians between 860 and 935 AD. The Norse settlers were followed by immigrants from Norse colonies in Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Western Isles of Scotland.
The Icelandic horse is a breed developed in Iceland and highly protected. Icelandic law prevents horses from being imported into the country and exported animals are not allowed to return.
Although the horses are small, at times pony-sized, most registries for the Icelandic refer to it as a horse. It is a "five-gaited" breed (walk, trot, and canter/gallop, many Icelandic horses can also do the tölt and the flying pace), known for its sure-footedness and ability to cross rough terrain. They are small, long-lived and hardy with very few disease, and a sweet yet resilient temperament.
Horses of Assateague, Maryland/Virginia
Assateague's feral horses are descendants of domestic animals that have reverted to a wild state. Local folklore describes the Assateague horses as survivors of a shipwreck off the Virginia coast. There are no records yet that confirm it. Others believe they are the descendants of horses brought to barrier islands like Assateague in the late 17th century by mainland owners to avoid fencing laws and taxation of livestock.
Horses of Camargue, France
The Camargue horse is a traditional French breed of working horse. Its origins are unknown. For centuries these small horses have lived wild in the harsh environment of the marshes and wetlands of the Rhône delta. They developed the stamina, hardiness and agility for which they are known today.
Horses of Arizona
There are less than 500 wild horses left in Arizona. Known as mustangs, from the Spanish word mustango, which means, "wild, stray, or feral animal," they are thought to be descendants of Spanish Colonial or Iberian horses brought to the Southwest by explorers in the 16th century.
Horses of BCHR, NJ
BCHR began as a boarding facility, Mahrapo Farm Stables, in 1981. Today, the mission of BCHR is to ensure the integrity of the 17 acres farm, provide a sanctuary for neglected and abused horses, as well as a forever home for horses too old or not fit for adoption.
Staff and volunteers (of which there are many) are dedicated to provide the proper nourishment for each horse according to the each individual condition and needs, along with the direction of veterinarians, farriers and other equine professionals. Specific health plans and reconditioning programs are implemented to strengthen and elevate the mind, body and soul of every horse.
The motto of BCHR 'Caring for Horses Mind, Body & Soul' shows that the staff and volunteers understand horses need more than just physical care. They need love, a healthy environment, interaction with their herd and the knowledge that they are safe.
Every donation made to BCHR is directed to the wellbeing of the horses and the proper functioning of the farm.