Covertside Winter 2014 by Emily Esterson

ANNUAL GIFT GUIDE • LIVE OAK CHARTER’S JOURNEY • ENGLISH BLOODLINES IN US PACKS

THE MAGAZINE OF MOUNTED FOXHUNTING

WINTER 2014 • $5.00

s J o h n C o l e s 2 0 14 s spRiNG hiLL

houND hALL

Comparable to exquisite Kentucky Horse Farms, the gently rolling fields are lined with white board fencing. Features include a gracious 6 bedroom manor home, pool with house, 8 barns, large machine shop, 2 ponds, 9 tenant homes and at one of the entrances, the owner’s handsome office inclusive of conference and impressive trophy room. $7,500,000

Custom Built English style stone/stucco 3-story home s5 Bedrooms, Large Master, In-law suite with separate entrance sSlate Roof, Game Room, Theatre, Study, Custom Kitchen, 4 Stone Fireplaces sExtensive Horse Facilities s18 Stall Barn s2 Stall Barn s14 Paddocks sLarge Ring. $6,500,000

MeRRYchAse

wiNDRush

Magnificent 155 Acre Atoka Road Estate with gated entry opening into the private drive lined with mature trees. The charming historic manor home, c. 1827 backs to expansive views of fields and ponds. 4 tenant homes, 3 barns, indoor and outdoor riding arenas. Gently rolling pasture land with fenced paddocks and fields. $3,950,000

Magnificent country retreat on 30 acres with incredible privacy & beautiful views. The c.1850 manor home has been graciously expanded into a 7 bedroom home with separate entertaining venue & two-story office w/T-1 capability. Pool, tennis court, gardens, greenhouse, 5 car garage. $3,495,000

RuTLeDGe

The stately 128+ Acre Middleburg Virginia Country Estate offers a genteel lifestyle and majestic views. Handsome stone and clapboard manor home, 3 additional homes, 2 apartments, farm office, 6 barns, 45 stalls, indoor arena, all beautifully maintained and surrounded by the meticulously groomed grounds. $6,000,000

NoRTh hiLL

c. 1774, Sited high on a knoll, the 16 room Manor Home and “Garden Tea House” enjoy expansive views of mountains, rolling hills and the property’s wonderful Shenandoah River frontage. Once a thoroughbred breeding farm, it offers 20+ stalls and numerous paddocks. North Hill’s rich history provides potential for Historic Preservation Tax Credits. $3,300,000

ALessio

GosLiNG

whiTe Rock

Overlooking a serene pond, this magnificent European style manor home is on 115 acres surrounded by thousands of protected acres and the Bull Run Mountains. Custom built in 2001 using Olde World craftsmanship and materials this stunning home offers five bedrooms, 6 baths, 10’ ceilings, wide plank flooring, pool and geo-thermal heating and cooling. $2,395,000

18+ acres of mostly open and rolling land with the home sited perfectly with vast views from both front and back overlooking the pond, gardens and front fields. Cathedral ceilings, Master on the main floor, huge library/living room, private guest rooms, apartment on lower level w/own kitchen/entrance, sprawling deck w/awning. In OCH territory; VOF conservation easement. $2,095,000

18 acres in the heart of OCH Territory with a lovely 5.5 Bedroom Italianate Style home in a beautiful setting. Formal and informal spaces, high ceilings, wonderful kitchen, expansive rec room, full basement, private pool, extensive landscaping and more. Property is in a VOF Open-Space easement. $1,495,000

LAND

MAGNoLiA FARM

oAk ThoRpe

POTTS MILL - on 137+ acres with frontage on Little River, Open Space Easement, rolling fields with mature hardwood forest, Orange County Hunt Territory, great ride out, very private, within 5 miles of the village of Middleburg, views in all directions. $2,800,000

A stunning 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath stucco home on 13.77 acres in prime location on a quiet lane only minutes to Middleburg. Exceptional quality and attention to detail throughout this lovely home. Mostly open with fencing, 3 stall barn, detached 1 car garage and more. Burrland Lane, Orange County Hunt Territory. $1,480,000

OLD CARTERS MILL ROAD - Rare find. Just over 53 acres of prime Orange County Hunt country land with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains on one side and gently rolling, open hills on the other. All of the adjacent land is protected by conservation easements. The access to potential ride-out is exceptional. A potential home site has been studied including an engineers report verifying a certified 5 bedroom septic site and potential well site. $1,400,000

Beautiful 4 bedroom, 5 bath home on over 50 acres with incredible views in all directions. Perfect for horse enthusiasts or great for enjoying country living. Elegant living spaces. Fencing, convertible barn, water features, lush gardens, covered porches and decks for outdoor entertaining and much more. ODH Territory. $1,345,000

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

(540) 270-0094 THOMAS AND TALBOT REAL ESTATE (540) 687-6500

Middleburg, Virginia 20118

www.Thomas-Talbot.com

WINTER 2014 • VOLUME 5, NUMBER 4

Learning from the experts in the Professional Development Program.

18 ENGLISH INFLUENCE BY GLENYE CAIN OAKFORD An in-depth look at some of the most interesting English sires of American hounds.

22 ROUNDING THE BASES BY ADAM TOWNSEND Teamwork is key to successful hunting.

30 ADRIAN JENNINGS

ANNUAL FOXHUNTER’S GIFT GUIDE A round-up of the best of this season’s gift ideas.

IN EACH ISSUE:

THE FIXTURE Building relationships with landowners who live in a different world. EDUCATION A PDP student reflects on kennel visits.

e re i en p.2

b i er p.4

p.6

ASK THE HUNTSMAN How one huntsman masters new territory.

FARE & FLASK Coconut cake at Fairfield’s opening hunt.

HOUNDS & HORSES Rehoming hounds successfully and the epic story of Live Oak Charter.

THE LIBRARY The Babbling Bibliophiles provide a poem.

p.56

ON OUR COVER: Anne Litz shot this photo last winter of the Green Spring Valley hound exercise with Huntsman Sam Clifton. WINTER 2014 | 1

e i

2 | COVERTSIDE

www.mfha.com

OFFICERS

Dr. John R. van Nagell, MFH • President Patrick A. Leahy, MFH • First Vice-President Leslie Crosby, MFH • Second Vice-President Joseph Kent, MFH • Secretary-Treasurer Lt. Col. Dennis J. Foster, ex-MFH • Executive Director

MFHA FOUNDATION

Dr. John R. van Nagell, MFH • Chairman PO Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 (540) 955-5680

HUNT STAFF BENEFIT FOUNDATION Nancy Stahl, MFH • Chairman PO Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 (540) 955-5680

DAVE TRAXLER

his past summer, the executive committee of the MFHA met to strategize about the goals of the association, and how it can best meet the needs of the sport. Many ideas were discussed, and several themes emerged. First, the MFHA must be as responsive as possible to the needs of individual hunts. The association exists for its member hunts, and there should be an ease of communication such that every hunt feels free to contact the association and their MFHA district representative as soon as a problem arises. Likewise, it is our responsibility to reply in a supportive and timely manner. Second, the MFHA should offer information and guidance to those who wish to start a new hunt. This is a way our sport can grow and expand hunting into new territory. Recently, some of you have requested that faculty of the MFHA Professional Development Program visit your hunt to provide input on a variety of issues. These visits have been beneficial and positive for hunting. We welcome your requests and hope we can continue to be of help. Finally, we need your ideas as to how we can introduce more people to foxhunting through the MFHA Subscribing Membership program. Please explain to your friends and hunt supporters the advantages of becoming an MFHA subscribing member, and ask them to join. Hunting is now in full swing, and everyone is enjoying being out and seeing their hounds work. Every day brings particular joys and challenges, but some days are truly special. Perhaps you were able to see the light go on in a particular

MASTERS OF FOXHOUNDS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

e ee in o o r rien n n or er e n e o be o in n A b ribin e ber n e o oin young hound who led the pack for the first time on a difficult line. Or perhaps your new horse gave you a perfect ride, allowing you to be in the right place for a great day of hunting. You never want to miss a hunt, because it may be your special day! Here’s hoping you have many such special days this season. All the best,

Dr. Jack van Nagell President, MFHA

COVERTSIDE EDITORIAL BOARD Emily Esterson • Editor-in-Chief Dennis J. Foster, ex-MFH Dr. John R. van Nagell, MFH Patrick A. Leahy, MFH Leslie Crosby, MFH

DIRECTORS

Canada • Laurel Byrne, MFH Carolinas • Linda Knox McLean, MFH Central • Arlene Taylor, MFH Great Plains • Dr. Luke Matranga, MFH Maryland-Delaware • Sheila Brown, MFH Midsouth • Orrin Ingram, MFH Midwest • Keith Gray, MFH New England • Dr. Terence Hook, MFH New York-New Jersey • Marion Thorne, MFH Northern Virginia-West Virginia • Tad Zimmerman, MFH Pacific • Paul McEnroe, MFH Pennsylvania • Russell B. Jones, Jr., ex-MFH Rocky Mountain • Mary Ewing, MFH Southern • Mercer Fearington, MFH Virginia • Bob Ferrer, MFH Western • John P. Dorrier Jr., MFH At Large • Daphne Wood, MFH At Large • Mason H. Lampton, MFH At Large • Dr. G. Marvin Beeman, MFH At Large •Ed Kelly, MFH

COVERTSIDE (ISSN 1547-4216) is published quarterly (February, June, August and November) by the Masters of Foxhounds Association 675 Lime Marl Lane, Berryville, VA 22611. Periodical Postage Paid at Winchester, VA 22601 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MFHA, PO Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646. COVERTSIDE READERS: Direct all correspondence to the same address. Tel: (540)955-5680. Website: www.mfha.com

Setting the

Standard

Velvet H2000 Helmet

BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN PROTECTIVE HEADWEAR MANUFACTURERS WREXHAM

Kitemarked to AS015 and PAS015 P BSEN1384

Certified by SEI to ASTM F1163

www.charlesowen.com

WINTER 2014

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER EMILY ESTERSON publisher@covertside.net 505-553-2671

EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR KATY CARTER katy@covertside.net

JOANN DELANEY

ith holiday celebrations about to ramp up and the season in full swing, it’s time to remind ourselves of all the blessings in our lives. We are fortunate to have great horses, game hounds, and perhaps most importantly, the fellowship of our fellow hunters, both near and far. I’m reminded of this every time I travel, or every time someone from afar lands in the wilds of New Mexico, where I live. It happened recently, when a family from Cedar Knob Hounds in Tennessee came to compete at the National Polocrosse Championships. That event was held on the same property as our kennels, and the family ended up joining us for a delightfully long hunt breakfast after we returned from cubbing. They instantly became family, as we sat in the early autumn sun and talked hounds, horses, and hunting. We’ve all had experiences like that — where we encounter the strength of this community. Another stunning example is the effort to capture Live Oak Charter, whose story is detailed on page 45. If you recall, Charter and Perfect went missing during the Virginia Hound Show, and it took five months and the efforts of many individuals to finally trap and save Charter. In this issue we also celebrate the learning community. The Professional Development Program has had an impact on many hunts and huntsman throughout North

4 | COVERTSIDE

ART DIRECTOR GLENNA STOCKS production@covertside.net

America. The PDP participants encounter many “teachers” — the huntsmen, masters, staff and members of the hunts they visit. It does, indeed, take a village and this village of foxhunters is ever-helpful (see the story on page 37). Foxhunting is often compared to team sports, where each individual has a role to play for the greater whole. Huntsman Adam Townsend has lately been thinking about baseball teams and foxhunting. The two bear striking similarities — each taking a team of people to execute successfully. Read Townsend’s story on page 22. So this winter, consider your community — whether landowners and townspeople or your foxhunting friends. I, for one, am grateful for all their different-ness, which together makes up the sport we call foxhunting. Kick on!

Emily Esterson Editor-in-Chief/Publisher

CONTRIBUTING

WRITERS

GLENYE CAIN OAKFORD CHRISTOPHER OAKFORD SUSAN HOFFMAN

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/ SOUTH CHERYL MICROUTSICOS sales@covertside.net 434-664-7057 PENNSYLVANIA/MID-ATLANTIC KATHY DRESS kdress@ptd.net NORTHEAST SPENCER MOORE spencer@covertside.net EVENTS HOPE LYNNE GRAVES events@covertside.net Covertside is the official publication of the Masters of Foxhounds Association Published by E-Squared Editorial Services LLC 2329 Lakeview Rd. SW Albuquerque, NM 87105 Telephone: 505-553-2671 Web Address: www.ecovertside.net www.mfha.com

LIVING IN VIRGINIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HUNT COUNTRY

LOCUST HILL Built in 1826, "Locust Hill" is a 3,210 Ft2, elegant Flemish bond brick house. Unique oversized tripartite windows, high ceilings, and gracious central hall with Federal style stairway with mahogany handrail all make for distinguished and light filled interiors. Tucked more than three-quarters of a mile from the road on 323 acres of improved pastureland studded with small woodlots. Truly spectacular Blue Ridge views. Less than 15 minutes from Rockbridge Hunt, historic Lexington and the Virginia Horse Center. $1,900,000

For more information please contact: Don Skelly (540) 406-1370

PIEDMONT OFFICE 132A East Main Street, Orange, VA 22960

(540) 672-3903

Fax: (540) 672-3906

www.farmandestate.net

 THE MFHA BOARD OF DIREC-

 THE PROFESSIONAL

and will receive on-the-job train-

smooth transition to the position

TORS held its October meeting

DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

ing by one of the top huntsmen

of whipper-in. For information

in Lexington, Kentucky; the Iro-

continues to seek candidates for

in North America. They will also

and to apply, contact Andrew

quois Hunt and Board President

its young huntsman apprentice-

participate in a rigorous study

Barclay, Andrew@mfha.com.

Jack van Nagell hosted the

ship program. This is a unique

program put forth by the MFHA,

meeting. During the proceedings,

(paid) opportunity for one or two

supplemented by hunt and ken-

 DON’T FORGET TO BOOK

the board voted to accept the

individuals to apprentice with

nel visits and by attending hound

YOUR RESERVATIONS for the

following into membership: Harry

one of the nation’s top profes-

shows. They will work exten-

Annual Meeting and Masters’ Ball

Attick, De La Brooke Foxhounds

sional huntsmen. To be consid-

sively with a representative of

in New York City. The Union Club

W (MD-DE); Catherine Baxter,

ered for an apprenticeship, the

the MFHA, who will mentor the

will host the Master’s Dinner and

Rolling Rock Hunt (CE); William

candidate must be rated a pony

apprentice and oversee the study

Annual Membership Meeting.

Haggard, Mells Fox Hounds (MS);

club C3 traditional level or bet-

program. The mentor will make

All other events will be held at

West Hamryka, Shakerag Hounds

ter, be 18 years old or older, and

periodic visits and will communi-

The Pierre, one of the classiest

(S); Mrs. David Herr, Radnor Hunt

have the recommendation of the

cate with the huntsmen and Mas-

and most elegant hotels in New

(PA); Patricia Hunter, Guilford

local DC or Master of Foxhounds.

ters of the hosting hunt as well as

York. The MFHA has reserved a

Hounds (NE); Richard Kidwell,

Young people not involved in

the apprentice. At the success-

block of rooms at The Pierre, the

Misty River Hounds (W); Howard

pony club are also welcome to

ful completion of the year-long

same location that will host the

Millman, Windy Hollow Hunt (NY-

apply with the recommendation

apprenticeship, the mentor and

Masters’ Ball and MFHA board

NJ); Mr. Leslie Moeller, Chagrin

of a Master of Foxhounds. The

the MFHA will aid the apprentice

meetings. Guest rooms are $360

Valley Hunt (CE); Georgia Storm,

first year-long apprenticeship will

in finding a job in the business.

(standard)/$420 (city view) per

Santa Fe West Hills Hunt (PC);

begin May 1, 2015. During that

The mentor will continue to be

night. Please call (800) 743-7734

and Nicholas White, Myopia Hunt

year the apprentice(s) will be

available for as long as necessary

to make your reservations by

(NE).

employed by the hosting hunts

to help the candidate make a

December 29 and be sure to ask

6 | COVERTSIDE

tricountyfeeds.com

I GOT IT AT THE FEED STORE Fashionable looks that fit your style. Riding and sporting apparel. Quality feeds, pet supplies, tack and unique gifts. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much more than a feed store.

7408 John Marshall Hwy > Marshall, VA 20115 540.364.1891

Support Foxhunting Become an MFHA Subscribing Member!

Join today for just $35 and receive all the benefits of an MFHA membership. Junior memberships are only $10 for those under the age of 18!

CoyoTe invasion• Phoenix Rising • foxhunTeRs Take on Mongolia

MFHA Subscribing Member Benefits Include: • Covertside magazine - 4 issues per year • Monthly eCovertside subscription • Members only events, contests, seminars, and Ball • Bumper Sticker • Eligible to receive a variety of discounts from MFHA sponsors

The Magazine of MounTed foxhunTing

To join, make check payable to the MFHA and mail to: Masters of Foxhounds Association of America, PO Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646. To pay by credit card, call 540-955-5680. Call (540) 955-5680 or visit www.mfha.com to join today!

fall 2014 • $5.00

Your valuable support of the MFHA and its foundations helps to promote and preserve foxhunting and countryside values.

for the Master of Foxhounds block of rooms. To receive the MFHA discounted rate, reservations must be made directly with The Pierre, not through a travel agent.  THE INTERNATIONAL UNION OF HUNTING WITH HOUNDS (IUHH)

met in October in Brussels, Belgium, to share information and coordinate efforts against animal rights organizations. Eight countries participated in the meeting (the United States, Canada, France, Belgium, England, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand). IUHH meetings were held in conjunction with the Federation of Associations for Hunting & Con-

Equestrian Style...

servation of Europe (FACE), and the European Union. One of the most gratifying meetings included other animal rights targets (leaders in animal agriculture — beef, dairy, pig, chickens), pharmaceutical industries, zoos, dog and cat industries, medical research using animals and the fur industry) that attended a special gathering with IUHH and FACE hunting organizations to come together against a common enemy — the international animal rights movement. Dennis Foster presented an overall assessment of how to identify the AR organizations that are operating in Europe and across the globe, their strategies, coordination and money trails. He was also asked to do a presentation to a similar group of industries in Paris, France. The animal rights organizations the Humane Society and the World Animal Protection have considerable influence in the European Union with full-time lobbyists and booths to distribute their propaganda right in the European parliament main buildings. All meetings went exceptionally well with the other AR target industries agreeing that all the AR targets must work together and support each other if we are to expose the animal rights agenda.  MORE THAN 250 YOUNG PEOPLE

received their Fairly Hunted awards during the period of October 2, 2013, to October 1, 2014. To apply for the Fairly Hunted award, a young person must have hunted five times in a season and have the recommendation of an MFH. Below are the names of the recipients. OLIVIA ADAMS ..........................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds LILY ADAMS.................................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds CAROLINA ALVAREZ .............................Lowcountry Hunt MISS SHEA ANDERSON ........................Arapahoe Hunt GRAHAM ARMS .........................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds HAVEN ARMS .............................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds COLE ATTICK..............................................De La Brooke Foxhounds W ISABEL BAGGETTE..................................Caroline Hunt LILY BAILEY ................................................Lowcountry Hunt SARAH BAILEY..........................................Shakerag Hounds BRYNNA BARTLETT ...............................Oak Grove Hunt MISS MADELEINE BATTLE ..................Mooreland Hunt KENLEY BATTS ..........................................Red Mountain Foxhounds Inc COOPER BATTS.........................................Red Mountain Foxhounds Inc TREY BATTS ................................................Red Mountain Foxhounds Inc MISS ALIE BELGER ..................................Camden Hunt TREY BENNETT ........................................Chula Homa Hunt MS. MADDIE BENNETT..........................Chula Homa Hunt VICTORIA BIRD .........................................Ottawa Valley Hunt SIMON BISSONNETTE ...........................Ottawa Valley Hunt

from subway to saddle.

WINTER 2014 | 9

COURTESY MILL CREEK

Ellie Jane Sherman, 14, had the honor of riding as assistant whip to Mill Creek Master Keith Gray. This is her third season hunting.

ANTOINE BISSONNETTE......................Ottawa Valley Hunt ALEXIS BISSONNETTE ..........................Ottawa Valley Hunt EMMA BITTLE .............................................Farmington Hunt CONNOR BLACK.......................................Woodbrook Hunt RYDER BLACK ...........................................Woodbrook Hunt CECCILIA BLACK......................................Woodbrook Hunt ALI BLACK ...................................................Woodbrook Hunt SUSANNAH BRISTOW BLOUNT .......Midland Fox Hounds MISS LORNA BOHNENSTIEHL...........Arapahoe Hunt MASTER KRIS BOHNENSTIEHL ........Arapahoe Hunt INDIA BRADFORD ...................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds WILLIAM BRANNON ..............................Chula Homa Hunt TIM BRICKEN ..............................................Green Spring Valley Hounds ALLEN BROMM ..........................................Huntingdon Valley Hunt ELLA BROPHY ...........................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds JOHN BROPHY ..........................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds MISS VIVIAN BROUSE ...........................Mooreland Hunt HATTIE BROWN ........................................Rappahannock Hunt MAGGIE BUCHANAN..............................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds AUDREY BUCHANAN.............................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds MISS RANDI BYRD ...................................Bedford County Hunt MISS ELIZA CARR ....................................Caroline Hunt UNA MAY CARROLL ...............................Myopia Hunt HARRISON CARTER................................Deep Run Hunt CAROLINE CHALMERS .........................Green Spring Valley Hounds ANNE CHALMERS ....................................Green Spring Valley Hounds JULIETTE CHALMERS ............................Green Spring Valley Hounds JILL CHAMBERLAIN ...............................Ottawa Valley Hunt ELLERY CHANCELLOR..........................Chula Homa Hunt RUTH ANN CHIERICHELLA .................Rappahannock Hunt KATHERINE CHRISTOPHER ................Red Mountain Foxhounds Inc NATHAN CHURCH....................................Rappahannock Hunt SHAY CLANCY ...........................................Ottawa Valley Hunt CAMERON CLORE ...................................Bull Run Hunt JULIA CONLEY ..........................................Myopia Hunt PIPPA COOK................................................Farmington Hunt MASTER JOSEPH COORS ....................Arapahoe Hunt MISS CECILY COORS ..............................Arapahoe Hunt MEGHAN COPENHAVER.......................Deep Run Hunt

10 | COVERTSIDE

ALI CORKRAN ............................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds MAX CORKRAN .........................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds ALIVIA COTTER.........................................Green Creek Hounds TARYN COWLES .......................................Farmington Hunt TURNER CREWS .......................................Chula Homa Hunt MISS HATTIE CROSBY ...........................Mooreland Hunt MR. JACOB CROTTS ...............................Camden Hunt BRADY CULLY ............................................Blue Mountain Hunt MISS CAROLINE CURRAN ...................Mooreland Hunt BROOKLYN CURRIER .............................Green Mountain Hounds MISS HOPE CUSHMAN...........................Myopia Hunt TEDDY DAVIES...........................................Elkridge-Harford Hunt SCARLETT DAVIES ..................................Elkridge-Harford Hunt AARON DAVIS............................................Green Spring Valley Hounds KELSEY DECKER ......................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds BAILEY DOLOFF .......................................Green Spring Valley Hounds MS. ASHLEIGH DOVE .............................Middleburg Hunt MISS ERIN DRISCOLL .............................Arapahoe Hunt WILLIAM S DRISKILL..............................Orange County Hounds KELLY DYESS ..............................................Chula Homa Hunt JACK EDDOWES.......................................Deep Run Hunt FINLEY EICHLER.......................................Deep Run Hunt LYDIA EIFLER .............................................Long Run Hounds JESSICA ELKINS .......................................Lowcountry Hunt MISS CAROLINE ELLIS ..........................Myopia Hunt ASHLEY EVANS .........................................Oak Grove Hunt JAMIE EWING.............................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds JADEN FEAIRS ..........................................Eglinton and Caledon Hunt TOMMY FENWICK....................................Green Spring Valley Hounds DAISY FENWICK .......................................Green Spring Valley Hounds ELLEN FERRIS............................................Eglinton and Caledon Hunt PHOEBE FISHER .......................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds BUSBY FISHER ...........................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds LYDIA FISHER.............................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds CHANDLER FOX .......................................Princess Anne Hunt WESTON M. FRANK ................................Mission Valley Hunt Club WILLIAM FRASIER...................................Green Spring Valley Hounds MISS KIRI FREEMAN ...............................Mooreland Hunt MR. THOMAS FREEMAN .......................Mooreland Hunt MISS RORY GEARHARDT .....................Arapahoe Hunt MISS HALLIE GEDDINGS ......................Camden Hunt HUNTER GERLING ...................................Shakerag Hounds MISS SAVANNAH GILLMOR ................Arapahoe Hunt NOLAN GIVLIN ..........................................Eglinton and Caledon Hunt CLAIRE GOFF .............................................Woodford Hounds DAVID GOODALL .....................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds MORGAN GRACEY...................................Eglinton and Caledon Hunt LEAH GRANGER .......................................Red Mountain Foxhounds Inc HADLEY GREEN ........................................North Country Hounds JANINE GVOZDANOVIC .......................Ottawa Valley Hunt KATHERINE HALL ....................................Lowcountry Hunt LOGAN HALL ..............................................Lowcountry Hunt MADELINE HALL ......................................Chula Homa Hunt HUGH HALSEY ...........................................Deep Run Hunt FLORA HANNUM ......................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds CHLOE HANNUM ......................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds JACK HANNUM ..........................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds ELLIS HARGADON ...................................Myopia Hunt MADELINE HARTWELL.........................Bridlespur Hunt MADISON HARTWIG ..............................Mill Creek Hunt CORBIN HAYES ........................................Fort Leavenworth Hunt KATIE HEATH ..............................................Green Mountain Hounds

Continued on page 48

PENNSYLVANIA’S FAMED HUNT COUNTRY

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

A rare large tract of unimproved farmland offering multiple private house sites with great views in a wonderful fox hunting location. Mainly open, there is some woodlands and is also offered in smaller parcels. $2,850,000

NEW PRICE!

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

On 63+ park-like acres, Fineskinde Farm is like owning your own preserve! 4BR, 2.1BA main house (c.1700 with later additions), great stone barn and several rental units. $1,259,999

NEW LISTING!

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

Set on 74 acre, the charming c.1806, 5BR, 4.1BA home retains an antique patina but has an addition with new Kitchen, Family Room & Master Suite. Great 6 stall barn. $2,485,000

NEW LISTING!

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

Deerhaven Farm offers exceptional privacy, great location in “Tuesday Country” and surrounded by large, protected estates. On 30 acres, there is a 4BR, 2.1 BA home, 6 stall barn, a lighted ring and easement allows for an indoor. $1,220,000

NEW PRICE!

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

Newlin Homes will build this 5,300 sq. ft. home on a 20.5 acre parcel surrounded by large estates in hunt country! Other floor plans available at variety of prices. $1,749,000

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

Situated adjacent to 800 ac. Laurels Preserve sits this 25 acre parcel w/ mature woods, small stream, & open pasture. Located just a short hack to the kennels & in Unionville Schools. $1,025,000

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

Taylor Made Farm sits on 31 acres in a great hunt location. The 4 BR, 3.2 BA main home has dramatic spaces & a stellar Master Suite. There is also a small barn, tennis court, and in-ground pool plus Unionville Schools! $2,389,900

NEW PRICE!

RADNOR HUNT COUNTRY

Private 20.28 acres & down a long lane is this 12 yr. old 5BR, 4.1BA home featuring grand Foyer, stunning Kitchen & fully finished lwr. lvl. Wonderful 5 stall barn/several pastures - hacking is boundless. Located near Marshallton. $1,099,500

NEW PRICE!

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

Greenmore Farm enjoys one of the most phenomenal views in the county! Current living quarters is over the 6 stall barn consisting of 3BR, BA and high end spaces! Build your dream home and enjoy the view! $925,000

NEW LISTING!

UPPER UWCHLAN TOWNSHIP

You MUST SEE this stunning antique stone farmhouse, tenant house and stone barn on 28.4 acres near Marsh Creek State Park and Brandywine Creek! On 2 parcels. $875,000

NEAR FAIR HILL TRAINING CENTER

Super 18.36 acre farm with a 4BR, 3.1BA home with Great Room, 1st and 2nd floor Master Suites. Well maintained. 5 stall barn with pastures. Low taxes! $849,000

NORTHERN CHESTER COUNTY

Looking for a wonderful & affordable horse farm? You must see this 10.93 acre farm with a spacious 4BR, 2.1BA home, a great 6 stall barn, and a 100' x 200' lighted ring! Located in an area of similar properties. $749,900

one A

DOUGLAS LEES

e e berin

e in oe

The story of a ravine, a fox and serious determination. BY TOMMY LEE JONES

12 | COVERTSIDE

with the famous contract hunter Buffalo Jones — no relation to myself. Daydreaming, I thought that if a few of these trees were swapped out for pinyons, this steep valley could have been one those cuts off of the Grand Canyon where Zane Gray was following Jones’ hounds. How cool would it be if Melvin’s hounds were running a cougar? Virginia has the Eastern cougar, but they were supposed to be only in the Dismal Swamp. This could be a cougar. “Where are they?” Melvin jolted me out of my musing. “Coming up the split, about three-quarters up,” I said. “Headed right at us.” We sat there, listening to the hounds draw nearer. Their tone changed slightly, a little more urgent, and then we both said simultaneously, “He’s gone in.” Melvin turned abruptly, slalom-

ing through the trees at a trot, ducking branches and cheering his hounds to stay there as we started over the edge. We came upon the pack surrounding a small cluster of various sizes of rocks that were holding their own against gravity’s pull down the mountain. Melvin leapt off his horse and half-slid, half-ran down the slope to his pack. Hounds were all around this little hummock of boulders that was slightly taller than he was, and maybe twice as big around. Some hounds were on top, baying down into the openings between rocks, while others were digging at the sides. Finally, there was 80-plus-year-

Melvin Poe and hounds on a run near Middleburg, Virginia.

old Melvin cheering and peering into the cracks. I had taken hold of Melvin’s horse on the off-side and had moved him next to a big rock that could be used as a mount-

DOUGLAS LEES

THERE IS A SPOT along the power line in Bath County’s hunt country that drops off abruptly, going down 300 or 400 feet to a narrow valley and narrower stream. It rises up nearly as steeply on the other side. The stumps of trees cut off near the ground dot both sides of this steep cut. Thick cables span the chasm and I ask myself the same question every time I come here: “How the heck did they get those big cables over to the other side?” I’m whipping-in to Melvin Poe on a cool morning in late August on his annual birthday trip. His pack is coming my way. I first heard them down near the floor of the valley. They were slowly making their way up the wall on my side of the cut. The day before, I had listened to a book on tape. “Last of the Plainsmen” is Zane Gray’s firsthand account of a cougar hunt

Melvin Poe was huntsman for Orange County Hounds from 1964 to 1991 when he retired. He continued hunting until almost his last days. Below, Melvin and wife Peggy enjoy a laugh together.

ing block. “He’s in here,” Melvin called up to me. He reached down, got a stick and then got all his hounds behind him. He began poking his stick into the pile of rocks, and out of the other side jumped a huge red fox. In an instant, the hounds were off, screaming along the ridge opposite the direction we had come down. Melvin, running tree-to-tree up the slope, jumped on the rock and then on to his horse and was off after his hounds. After another twenty minutes, the fox took refuge in a small clump of trees overlooking the Jackson River. It had been a great morning. Melvin’s pack of the lame, the halt and the blind had accounted for their fox twice. He had taken several other hunts’ culls and cripples and forged them into a hard-working pack. His enthusiasm never waned.

He was still hunting and jumping at 93. Melvin was a man completely comfortable in his skin, who loved hunting. He understood that foxhunting was an entertainment industry and often said that he preferred playing to a full house, but sometimes he didn’t need an audience. I delivered a bucket of grapes to Melvin for his famous homemade wine. His wife, Peggy, was sitting in the front yard looking across the road. I sat the bucket beside the back door and walked around to the front. “Whatcha looking at?” I asked. “Mel’s hunting over there,” she said. Melvin had been told a zillion times that he should not jump. I asked, “Who’s with him?” “No one,” she said. “But who’s going to keep him from jumping?” “He’s on the tractor.” Melvin Poe actively hunted hounds on horseback almost until the day of his death. He passed away on September 13 at his farm in Hume, Virginia. He was 94.

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o r o n o n in n ON SEPT. 13, 2014, Howard County Iron Bridge Hounds celebrated the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the hounds Mountain and Muse to America, which just happened to coincide with the bombing of Fort McHenry. The club held the Mountain & Muse Star-Spangled Gala ball aboard the ship, the Catherine Marie, in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. They sailed among the historic tall ships and watched

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the spectacular fireworks display put on by the state of Maryland to commemorate the night that gave birth to our national anthem. There were 120 guests and ten hunt clubs represented, including: Green Spring Valley; Elkridge-Harford; New MarketMiddletown Valley; Marlborough; Potomac; De La Brooke; Wicomico; Deep Run and Bull Run “So nice of the state of Maryland to do this in honor

of Mountain and Muse,” Roger Scullin, MFH, said, of the spectacular fireworks display. Howard County commissioned an oil painting in Howard County Iron Bridge Hounds commissioned limited edition oil painting of Mountain and Muse. honor of the bicen- aPrints are available for sale. tennial of the arrival to the United States of the great foundation hounds offering limited edition prints for Mountain and Muse. They are sale to the general public.

served two terms on the Webster Groves (Missouri) City Council, initially inspired by his opposition to a local ordinance banning the stabling of horses. Bruce became an avid foxhunter in the 1960s as a member of the Bridlespur Hunt. In 1981, he became a charter member and Joint Master of the Meramec Valley Hunt and was the Great Plains Representative for the Masters of Foxhounds Association Board of Directors for five years.

and Dentistry before serving as an officer in World War II and the Korean War. He was a surgeon in the Cincinnati area and served on the faculty of the University of Cincinnati until his retirement in 1985. For most of his adult life, he rode regularly with the Camargo Hunt Club, as whipper-in and, later, as Master. In his spare time, he built tables, desks, and shelves in his basement shop and gave his creations away as gifts, often carving the recipient’s initials into the wood.

HARRY SEMMES JR., R. BRUCE MCCLOSKEY, MD,

ex-MFH, Meramec Valley Hunt On August 23, R. Bruce McCloskey, MD., passed away at the age of 94. Bruce McCloskey served in the U.S. Army in World War II and, upon his return to the United States, became a prominent member of the medical community. He 14 | COVERTSIDE

o o

ex-MFH, Potomac Hunt

Harry H. Semmes Jr., former Master of Potomac Hunt, died July 6. He was 94. Harry served in the U.S. Army in the Pacific during World War II and his decorations included the Distinguished Service Cross and the Purple Heart. An active pointto-point rider in the 1960s, Harry and his horse, Suncastle, won the Martini & Rossi Trophy for Best

Horse and Best Rider in 1966. He was Master of the Potomac Hunt from 1973-1979, then continued hunting actively with Old Dominion (of which his brother, David, was Master) until he was 80.

JOHN H. WULSIN, MD, ex-MFH, Camargo Hunt

Dr. John H. Wulsin, 94, died at his home in the company of his family on July 20. John was educated at Harvard College and the University of Rochester School of Medicine

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i eren

Building relationships with landowners vastly different from ourselves. BY SUSAN HOFFMAN

COURTESY BETSY HARRIS

ime and again, Covertside articles have focused on landowner relationships. To be quite honest, it’s a bit of a challenge to find something new to say about the topic. So we flipped it upside down! Even though developing and maintaining landowner relationships isn’t unique, some of the landowners definitely are. One in particular — the Amish who farm the fertile southeastern Pennsylvania land in Andrews Bridge Foxhounds’ home country — represent an

16 | COVERTSIDE

out-of-the-ordinary lifestyle, requiring extraordinary relationship-building. HUNT THEE AMONG US

It’s fair to say we are fascinated by the Amish, and at times, vice versa. The “plain people” believe in living a life separated from the English (that’s what they call us) and are reluctant to adopt the conveniences of modern technology, including electricity. Horsedrawn buggies are their means of transport; draft horses and mules provide the genuine horsepower that muscles agricultural equipment around their farms. Over the years, Andrews Bridge Foxhounds has successfully made inroads with this extremely closed society. MFH Betsy Harris says, “Our pack has been here for 87 years, so the Amish are used to seeing us hunting through the countryside. The entire idea of hunting fox on horseback for sheer sport and pleasure is difficult Amish-approved entertainment: Jim The Balloon Man entertains the next generation of landowners.

for them to comprehend. With a smile, they call us ‘the crazy English.’ To them, hunting is only a means of putting food on the table. But, the Andrews Bridge hounds are welcome to hunt on their farms because we respect their religious lifestyle, crops and livestock.” The 2006 school shooting in nearby Nickel Mines provided a window for bringing the two lifestyles together as one community. Harris explains, “The Amish were overwhelmed with the support they received from the English. This greater sense of community helped get everyone through that terrible time.” Keeping the benefits of being neighborly in mind, Harris thought it would be a good idea to build on the positives. The simple idea of hosting an Amish picnic, where hunt members and Amish could mingle and get to know each other better, was perfect. “The Amish traditionally have extremely large families. It’s critical for those children to get to know us because the farms will be passed down through the families, and these kids are our future

landowners, even though they’re not going to be future foxhunters. You can’t ‘buy’ their respect, but root beer floats, chicken barbecue, pig roast, and Amishapproved kids’ activities go a very long way!” remarks Harris. The first community event, in 2013, was well-attended and enjoyed by all. The 2014 get-together was even larger, with approximately 350 people. “This community event is now ‘THE’ event the local Amish families look forward to,” claims Harris. “It’s opening up communications and relationships that would otherwise be impossible, considering we can’t communicate with them via phone, email, social media or internet.” Harris comments, “What we have here is unique to any place else. Our outreach to this community has gone much further than just inviting them to a picnic or delivering holiday hams. It has transcended into something much larger, and much more precious.” Susan Hoffman is a frequent Covertside contributor. She lives and hunts in Pennsylvania.

BETSY HARRIS

Parking for the annual Amish landowner picnic has to accomodate both cars and buggies—350 people attend.

“Christy Hannum has created a truly remarkable film that isn’t just about one of the most famous, admired and knowledgeable foxhunters in modern times, but a treatise on the sport of foxhunting.” — Dennis Foster, Ex. Dir., MFHA

A Swim Pictures Production

Goodnight Ladies A DOCUMENTARY FILM

BY CHRISTIANNA HANNUM MILLER

Cinematographer, DAVID W. LEITNER • Editor, RAY HUBLEY

Animation, EMILY HUBLEY

Soundtrack includes music by ALISON KRAUSS and NICKEL CREEK Goodnight Ladies is a 37-minute film that tells the story of Nancy Penn Smith Hannum, world renown Master of Foxhounds and legendary equestrienne. The cost of the film is $40.00 (includes shipping). Please mail a check c/o Swim Pictures, 500 West Linden Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348

WINTER 2014 | 17

n i

Some English bloodlines are standouts in American packs. BY GLENYE OAKFORD

Jerry Miller, Joint MFH, Iroquois, became a fan of English hounds for their biddability and coyotehunting prowess.

en e

MERICAN FOXHUNTERS have been using English bloodlines since at least 1650, when Sir Robert Brooke sailed to America’s eastern shore with his wife, Mary, their children, a group of servants, and a pack of hounds. Brooke — who went on to serve as Maryland’s colonial governor and is the inspiration for today’s De La Brooke hunt — is generally credited with being the first person to import English foxhounds to America, but he was by no means the last, and that’s helped spread English bloodlines throughout North America.

DAVE TRAXLER

Iroquois Halo ’12 won Unentered English Doghound at the Virginia Hound Show in 2012.

Today, 56 of the MFHA’s 149 active, registered packs have at least half a couple of English hounds, and packs with Crossbreds still see strong English influence in their bloodlines. Over time, some of these hunts have pinpointed certain bloodlines or individual hounds that perform especially well for them. FROM EXMOOR TO FLORIDA

DAVE TRAXLER

Marty and Daphne Wood of the Live Oak Hounds in Monticello, Florida, got their first English hounds from Ben Hardaway’s Midland pack. Those hounds, bred by Martin Letts at Northern England’s College Valley Hunt, proved useful, recalls Daphne Wood. But the main English

influence at Live Oak comes from Exmoor, which Wood calls “the foundation of our pack.” “The reason the Exmoor works so well for us is that they hunt incredibly wild, thick country,” Wood explains. “They have one professional whipper-in and lots of red deer, so they’ve got to have a hound that hunts on its own and is naturally not tempted to run deer. It was interesting that, when Ronnie Wallace came here for the first time, he looked at our country and he said, ‘I can see why my hounds work well here.’ Not that Exmoor looks like here, but the wildness and the thickness of it and the number of deer were things that were similar.” It was Exmoor that provided what Daphne Wood called a game-changing hound: Landseer ’86, a son of Exmoor Dunster ’82 and Exmoor Lawful ’82, now memorialized in a painting in the Woods’ private library — and in the bloodlines of a number of Live Oak hounds. “We imported a couple-anda-half of Exmoor hounds that included Exmoor Landseer,” says Wood. “Prior to that, we had not been able to catch any coyotes. Landseer was so big and so wellmade that he just had the power and the stride, and we started catching coyotes. It was remarkable.” Wood points to other

influential English dog hounds at Live Oak, too, including Exmoor’s Nailer ’87 (Exmoor Farley ’80, out of Exmoor Spangle ’85) and Limecombe ’91 (Exmoor Daresbury ’87, out of Exmoor Linnet ’88), and Live Oak Mounsey ’94 (Exmoor Pewter ’89, out of Exmoor Merit ’90). What has that English blood added to the Live Oak pack? “Biddability,” Wood says. “They have this incredible drive when they’re hunting, but they’re so easy to control, and they are very easy in the kennel. I would just say that they make the huntsman and staff’s job so easy, because you don’t have to mess with them. They just do their job without correction, and they’re very intelligent. Most of them don’t ever have to be admonished on deer. If you do have to, they understand. They’re very quick to learn what you want them to do and what you want them not to do.” Wood adds that the Exmoor hounds often produced entire litters of good animals, too, a fact she attributed to Wallace’s decadeslong course of careful breeding. “They didn’t have a lot of outcrosses, so the result was more predictable,” she says. “They were a tighter gene pool, so you could better tell what you were going to get. That really made a change in terms of how many in the litter worked out for us.” FROM COTTESMORE TO LEXINGTON

Jerry Miller, Joint Master of the Iroquois Hunt in Lexington, WINTER 2014 | 19

Kentucky, grew up hunting Walker hounds but considers himself a convert to English hounds for pack hunting, thanks to their the biddability and coyote-hunting prowess. “I like their attitudes, their biddability, their intensity, their loyalty to the huntsman,” he says. “They’re smart, they’re loyal, and they want to hunt as a pack, and you can control them. That’s an English hound.” As for specific bloodlines, Miller found exactly what he was looking for in ST Carlowline hounds at the Cottesmore and North Cotswold. He first encountered the bloodline at the Cottesmore, then hunted by Capt. Brian Fanshawe and later by Neil Coleman, and was struck by how biddable and engaged the hounds were. In a forthcoming history of the Iroquois Hunt, to be published by History Press, Miller recalled his first impression of them — “They handled almost like pet dogs, really” — and described a particularly memorable Cottesmore hunt day that illustrated why he wanted the ST Carlow bloodline. The pack hunted all day and Fanshawe only brought them in as night was falling. “As we were riding in, every one of his hounds was with him, heads up, sterns wagging,” Miller says. “They looked so happy. They’d given everything, and they wanted to be with him.” Fanshawe and Coleman at the Cottesmore and Nigel Peel at North Cotswold have all contributed to the English (and ST Carlow) lines in the Iroquois kennel, resulting in a spate of very good hounds and sires and 20 | COVERTSIDE

dams in their own right, among them Iroquois Statesman ’92 (by Cottesmore Faction ’87, out of Cottesmore Storage ’89) and Iroquois Stamina ’97 (by Cottesmore Fallguy ’93, out of Cottesmore Stubborn ’92). Among the imports was a dog from the ST Carlow line that Miller considers one of the Iroquois Hunt’s most influential and talented hounds: Iroquois Grundy ’98 (by Cotswold Patron ’94, out of North Cotswold Grapefruit ’95), whom Miller imported as a puppy. “Grundy was just a different hound, not only in his size but in his demeanor in the kennel,” Miller says of the large, badgerpie dog, who is memorialized with a life-sized statue near the Iroquois kennel. “I never knew him to start a fight or get in a fight. It just seemed like the other hounds respected him. He was so biddable that you could be riding on one side of a creek and he’d be on the other side, and you’d say, ‘Grundy, over,’ and he’d just dive in. He didn’t wait for a shallow spot or pick his way across; he’d just come. “In his second season, we noticed that he wouldn’t get off game,” Miller continued. “If he picked a certain coyote, he’d stay on that coyote. At the time, he wasn’t the fastest, because he was young. But we said, ‘We’ve got something special here.’ Later, we found out that his offspring didn’t switch, either. We bred him five or six times. It really made the hunt, when it came to the point of accounting for game. When we first got in this, we just had a lot of switching

KAREN L. MYERS

Live Oak Maximus ’09 shows the grace and fine lines of the English hound.

on coyotes, and, as a huntsman, there’s nothing more frustrating. “He wasn’t the only great hound that was in the pack, and he had a huge supporting cast of very good hounds that could run right with him,” adds Miller. “But his big advantage was his intelligence.” ACROSS THE POND AND BACK

In recent decades, American hunts have benefitted from an increased willingness among prominent English hunts to share their best-performing bloodlines, not just nice-looking castoffs. “I think, at one time, a lot of fairly good-looking hounds went to America and Canada which weren’t necessarily great performers in the field,” says Fanshawe. “What we tried to do was to change the attitude about drafting hounds, especially abroad, that it’s no good sending people rubbish, but it’s great fun sending something that you’re proud of and which the recipient also is proud to receive. It may be that there was a bit too much emphasis on English hounds going over there

and producing show hounds, rather than producing great hounds in the field. I think that’s the wrong way to do it.” Among the visitors Fanshawe had when he was hunting the North Cotswold hounds in the 1970s was Ben Hardaway. “I’d have hated to send him a bad hound,” Fanshawe says, recalling how he showed Hardaway some of his best first-season hounds. “I put them all, about four couple, on the yard, and there was one outstanding-looking one. I said, ‘You can have which one you like.’ He picked the best-looking hound, and I said, ‘Fine, you can have him.’ He said: ‘Why have you given me your best-looking dog?’ I said, ‘I’ve used the daylights out of his father,’ which was a dog called Stanway and was the first really good stallion hound I bred from my Carlow female line.” That dog, North Cotswold Ladder ’78, was a success story. “Ben took him, and he said he was always a very good dog out hunting, and he won the championship at Virginia,” says Fanshawe. “So did his son Midland Lead ’81,

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and I think he had quite a lot of influence in America.” That kind of success, Fanshawe believes, helped encourage English hunts to offer quality hunting hounds to North America. Fanshawe later received an excellent hound from Hardaway, a dog by Midland Watchman ’82, out of Midland Nectar ’83, that Fanshawe named after Hardaway. Cottesmore Hardaway ’89 “worked brilliantly,” Fanshawe says, adding that the canine Hardaway’s influence lives on through such sires as the Duke of Beaufort’s Halifax ’06, a great-grandson. The United States can be a good source of outcrosses for English packs at a time when some English hunts are concerned about an over-reliance on particular sires, narrowing the gene pool. Certainly, hound traffic is heading both ways over the Atlantic, to the benefit of both England and America. “We took a pure Potomac bitch and crossed her to a pure English hound of ours, and two of those puppies are going to Nigel Peel of the North

Cotswold,” says Wood. “He was interested because on the dam’s side, it’s pure American, and the sire is a full littermate to two grand champions of Virginia. He’s looking for a good outcross. We sent an unentered dog puppy by our Live Oak Drummer ’89 to Exmoor, and he has been extensively bred to and is valued in England.” For American hunts considering going English, Iroquois Joint Master Miller advises not to obsess solely over bloodlines. “I would suggest hunting with them and seeing what traits you like in what hound, and don’t even look at the breeding,” says Miller, who in the 1980s and ’90s undertook a thorough study of English bloodlines and their traits both on the hunt field and in the kennel, before importing any. “Don’t look at anything except what hounds you like and what you like about them. And then sit down and see if there’s a common denominator.” There are also opportunities to find good English bloodlines in the United States, Wood points out, noting that Live Oak just received a pure College Valley dog from Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds. “The modern English hound is just so beautiful,” said Wood. “They look like the Thoroughbred. And they move so well. They’re ladies and gentlemen. They are just exactly what we want.” Glenye Cain Oakford is a freelance writer, frequent Covertside contributor, and a member of the Iroquois.

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“The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don’t play together, the club won’t be worth a dime.” —BABE RUTH.

o n in e A look into sports teams, hunting, and long-term achievement. BY ADAM TOWNSEND

he similarity between professional sports teams and foxhunting packs is uncanny. Foxhunting has seasons just as athletics do. There is a pre-season, when the hounds and staff learn to work together as a team and practice their skills; there is a regular season, where spectators are invited to enjoy the show; and there is a post-season, where the teams assess the past season and make changes accordingly. Each takes preparation by both Masters and hunt staff. And the similarites don’t end there: As of 2013, the MFHA is a legally designated sports organization, just like the National Football League and Major League Baseball. CONSISTENCY AND LONGEVITY

Sheila Brown, MFH, Green Spring Valley, leads the field with quiet efficiency.

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Professional sports have their share of turnover at the management levels, just as foxhunting clubs see turnover of Masters and hunt staff. This isn’t always good for the team. As Larry Pitts, huntsman to the Potomac Hunt for 34 seasons, says, “If you want longevity in the profession, you have to be willing to work long days.” This can be said for both professional athletics and foxhunting. Pitts continues, “It has taken 34 years to develop what I have here at Potomac. In the late summer and fall I work 12 to 16 hours many days a week during the hunt season. Hunt days are long and then even longer if you happen to have a hound out. Friends and family don’t always understand why I stay in a job that doesn’t pay much and you work liter-

WINTER 2014 | 23

Townsend and staff on hound exercise, showing the power of teamwork.

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“Two things are imperative: respect and communication. This goes both ways; you must have both between Masters and staff to work out any issues.” —SHEILA JACKSON BROWN

ally 24/7. Well, it’s because I love my hounds and the hunting.” It is the same love of the game that keeps many a professional athlete or coach working long days for the good of the team. Comparing statistics of the management position turnover to the success of a sports team on the field may offer a glimpse into consistency and longevity as being keys to success. The Oakland Athletics, a Major League Baseball team, for example, have had one general manager (the equivalent to the Master of a hunt) for 16 seasons. The Oakland A’s have had four losing seasons and 10 winning seasons in the past 14 years. Liz McKnight, who was Master of the ElkridgeHarford Hunt for 20 years before retiring to Master Emeritus after the 2013 season, says, “Consistency in a hunt and the longevity in the time that a Master and huntsman work together is really important. It cannot be every few years new staff and/or new Masters come into the job. You never get a chance to work on the ever-changing circumstances and learn to adjust to them and there are so many nuances that need to be dealt with on a day-to-day basis. Conflicts are very important to teach both Master and huntsman how they can work out each personal opinion and make the hunt better! Geoff [huntsman of Elkridge Harford for 23 seasons] and I have had plenty of conflicts along the way, but we both wanted the best for hunting!” Consider how consistency may play a role in your success on the field. The Kansas City Royals accumulated 12 losing seasons during the same time span as the Oakland A’s. The Royals had seven coaching changes; five coaches served less than three years. Generally, a new huntsman takes three to five years to develop a breeding program that suits the country’s needs if not already established, as well as learn the Master’s vision, the nuances of the country and the pack, and to develop his own style according to all of those variables. COMMUNICATION AND TEAMWORK

Andrew Barclay, whose professional career spanned 27 seasons with Green Spring Valley Hounds, notes that it takes a long time to develop a pack. “Huntsman success is dependent on having good hounds. If there is a constant turnover, then a breeding program can’t get established,” he says. “I have seen some huntsmen get that feel

and develop the ‘invisible thread’ in a season’s time and others never get it. It does depend on how ‘doggy’ they really are. I told someone once that it took me ten seasons. Guess I was just a bit slow!” Developing the hounds takes time, energy, and patience before the finished product can be evaluated. Sheila Jackson Brown, Joint Master of the Green Spring Valley Hounds for the last 18 seasons and current Maryland District Representative to the MFHA, explains, “Every huntsman differs in personality and that will affect how quickly he bonds with his pack and how quickly they trust him, so snap judgments should not be made. I think it will take a season of different scenting conditions for a new huntsman to really know what he’s got, what he likes and what he wants to move on, aside from the obvious. It will be three seasons before he has any of his own.” This can be especially difficult because both professional sports teams and foxhunting are performance-based jobs. Players and hounds get drafted; managers (for comparison) and huntsmen change jobs, seek better opportunities, or are terminated for a variety of reasons. Masters, too, come and go. “When I became Joint Master in 1996, we’d had two huntsmen since WWII,” Brown says. “In the last 18 years there have been two huntsman changes; the first one was easy and convenient, but we knew there would be issues. The second change was a departure from the old fashioned GSVH ‘way,’ but has proved to be very positive. Change, in itself, is not a bad thing — the old way is not always the best way. But frequent change can ruin a pack. It takes a long time to build a good pack, but it can be destroyed in no time at all. Nothing should be done in a hurry. Constant change is not only unsettling to the pack, but your members and landowners as well.” As with any team, conflicts arise, but Brown is adamant that working well together requires vigilance. “Two things are imperative: respect and communication. This goes both ways; you must have both between Masters and staff to work out any issues. “Teamwork, respect, communication, discipline. If you look at successful sports teams, talk to players or coaches, these are the tools that make things work. The same is true for a successful hunt, whether it

WINTER 2014 | 25

Cubbing is a bit like pre-season baseball â&#x20AC;&#x201D; players learn how to efficiently work together.

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be between huntsman and hounds, staff and Master, the hunt and its membership, or the hunt and the landowners,” Brown says. Barclay adds that, just like any professional sports team, management must remember that this is sports entertainment. “While we need to produce a polished product and maintain the highest levels of excellence that we can, we must entertain our members; they are the ticket holders. If they are happy, then all parties should be able to hang onto their jobs and the hounds can be refined and tweaked over time to make a better team all the time.” Liz McKnight, who was elected Master at Elkridge Harford and inherited Huntsman Geoff Hyde three years into Geoff’s ongoing 23year tenure as huntsman, says relationships have not always been easy. “I was not always proud of how we handled our differences of opinion, but, in the end, it seemed to always work out.” Both Masters and huntsmen have the same theory on what it takes to have continuity and success on the field: teamwork, respect, communication and discipline are tools that make for valued working relationships and continuity in the kennel for the best sport. A quote from Basketball Hall of Fame inductee Bob Cousy says it all: “Sports creates a bond between contemporaries that lasts a lifetime. It also gives your life structure, discipline and a genuine, sincere, pure fulfillment that few other areas of endeavor provide.” Is the pursuit of the chase any different? Adam Townsend is huntsman for Andrews Bridge Foxhounds in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He is a graduate of the MFHA Professional Development Program, class of 2008-2009.

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Learning by trying new methods is the only way to advance veterinary medicine. BY STEVEN ALLDAY, DVM

hroughout life we learn that all actions have reactions. Sometimes those reactions are good and sometimes not so good. The consequences and how we respond to them determine the direction we will take in the future and ultimately are a large part of our learning curve. This applies to how we care for our horses and figure out how we will continue to improve all aspects of handling and maintaining their health, nutrition, soundness and training in their respective disciplines. Whether you are a professional training racehorses, show hunters and jumpers or cow horses, or the caretaker of your backyard pleasure horses, basic horsemanship skills are pretty much the same. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A horse is a horseâ&#x20AC;? applies to all of these disciplines and should serve as a common-sense guide to how you care for and manage your horses. 28 | COVERTSIDE

The horse stays the same! Always has, always will. Yes, trends change and new preferences come along but the same tried and true principles and horsemanship skills are maintained generation to generation and serve to remind us that these are valuable tools for the training and handling of the horse. However, what does change is the science surrounding several aspects of the horse. This area is forever dynamic and changes rapidly. Just as the horse has adapted in just 150 years in western civilization from being the primary mode of transportation to the primary farm tool from plowing fields to hauling logs to being used primarily for recreation and entertainment, the science and advancements in all aspects of feeding, worming and treating diseases and problems encountered with horses have changed significantly. Certain ailments that were

career-ending in horses years ago, are today remedied quite simply with routine procedures. Several examples of this are vaccines for previously life-threatening diseases like tetanus and encephalitis-causing viruses and the application of internal screws and plates for fractures, that allow horses to continue productive careers where in the past they would have been euthanized. I like to consider myself a horseman first and veterinarian second. The reason why is because I rely on my horsemanship skills first and application of my veterinary skills next. I feel like my greatest skill as a horseman is my ability to recognize lameness issues in the horse. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the one thing I have focused on the most during my time around horses. I have had the good fortune of learning lameness diagnostics and treatment from some of the pioneers of veterinary medicine. I am

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constantly trying to improve my skills and abilities to recognize and diagnose problems prior to their causing setbacks and possibly the demise of a horse. I remember Dr. Edwin A. Churchill telling me 35 years ago that if we needed to wait until a horse limps in order to determine where a problem is going to occur then we probably haven’t advanced very far in the last 150 years. So my goal is to constantly stay on the preventive side of lameness issues however or whenever possible. Developing my skills to reach this goal is a never-ending task but it’s why I get up and work on horses every day. Dr. Kenneth P. Seeber was my very good friend and mentor early in my career. He once told me that the only thing that would ever stop me from advancing my skills and techniques for treating lameness would be a lack of imagination. I have found myself using a lot of imagination since I heard those prophetic words. Sometimes my imagination gave me a new way of dealing with an old problem and I was able to develop a new tool to add to my arsenal. Sometimes I learned what wouldn’t work and I vowed not to go down that path again. Either occurrence helped me learn. The definition of insanity is to continue to do the same thing over and over and expect a different result. When I do the same thing over and over I expect the same result. When I do things differently I expect to get different results. That’s what keeps me evolving as a scientist. Whether it’s developing LubriSynHA and Re-Borne for use in some of the elite equine athletes I examine or trying to determine a new way to have horses shod, my career is dynamic and the possibilities endless. The search will go on for me until I find the next best way to help a horse.

www.lubrisyn.com

Kindest Regards, Steven C. Allday DVM Dr. Steven C. Allday, DVM, is vet to top equine athletes around the globe. He is also an entrepreneur, founding the company that manufactures LubriSynHA, a widely used natural equine joint supplements, and Re-Borne, a whole, concentrated liquid bovine colostrum-based feed supplement that helps horses develop lean muscle mass and bounce back quicker from adversity. For information, visit www.lubrisyn.com or www.re-borne.com.

Promotes Total Equine Health Immune • Gut • Muscle WINTER 2014 | 29

Annual GIFT GUIDE 2014

LEATHERMAN LEAP

Price: $54.00 Wow your children and grandchildren with this specially made “Leatherman Leap,” the first Leatherman multi-tool created for younger users. The Leap, designed with safety as the No. 1 priority, includes safety locks that keep fingers from the path of the tools, a two-hand opening knife blade for safer deployment, and a secure grip designed to train users to properly operate tools. The Leap also comes with a user-installed knife blade that can be added by a parent when the user is ready for more responsibility. For ages 9 and up. www.leatherman.com

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ONTYTE MAGNETIC STIRRUP SYSTEM

Price: varies “Hold Hard!” The OnTyte Magnetic Stirrup System lets you focus on the chase, not on your feet! OnTyte composite stirrups are proudly made in the United States, look professional and sleek, and have a wide, comfortable footpad. Classic Fillis and Flex styles are also available with the magnetic system. Tall boots can be easily modified for the OnTyte system. Feel confident and secure in your stirrups. These make the perfect gift for foxhunters. www.ontyte.com

HEADLAMP EX550

Price: $69.99 This is the ideal gift for managing those pre-dawn hunt mornings. Use this waterproof headlamp when you need maximum light output. It features a CREE XM-L2 LED that produces a powerful 550 lumens of brightness with beam range of 135 meters. It is built to withstand some of the wettest conditions and accidental drops, while maintaining optimal functionality. A must-have during hunt season! www.olympiaproducts.com

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BRAIDEEZ

Price: $24.00 Braideez braiding wires are the best tool for opening day or any formal hunting occasion. The wires make braiding a cinch and will even stay in overnight! The colors of the wires match your horse’s mane or tail, are reusable and will not hurt your horse. Braideez comes in black, white, brown or rainbow colors. Each pack is 25 wires (32” long, each). www.braideez.com

CORDLESS WAHL CLIPPERS

Price: $145.95 Perfect for quick trims in the trailer! These exceptionally lightweight, Wahl Arco SE cordless/ battery clippers feature a superior quick-change, 5-in-1 adjustable blade that easily glides through fetlocks, bridle paths, ears, face and whiskers. They are quiet enough for problem ears and head-shy horses, yet strong enough for stubborn areas. Both clipper and blade stay cool. Comes with a durable storage case, four attachment guide combs, blade oil, cleaning brush and blade guard. www.wahlanimalstore.com

Fine Oilskin Fashions & More

CLIFTON HUNT CROP

$275.00 (Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) $295.00 (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Look and hunt your best with this quality hunt crop made in England. Handle is made with real stag horn. Color is brown (thong not included). shop.shiresequestrian.com

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WINTER 2014 | 31

Annual GIFT GUIDE 2014

REFRESHMENT TOTE

Price: $54.95 This refreshment tote is the perfect way to carry your sustenance of choice. It is padded with a center divider to ensure safe delivery of contents. Adjustable strap with attached lid guarantees nothing is left behind! Made of 24-oz. cotton canvas and available in both black and tan. www.outbacktrading.com

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SNOOTY FOX WELCOME FLAG

Price: $18.00 - $32.00 This decorative flag makes a wonderful gift for the fox lovers in your life! This snooty fellow is regally welcoming all who enter your garden or your home. The flag is double-sided applique, durable heavy nylon with sewn rod pocket on top. Available in two sizes; does not include metal stand. www.horseandhound.com

FOX MASK WINE COASTER

Price: $72.00 This handmade fox mask wine coaster by Horse Lady Gifts is a perfect addition to your foxhunting holiday place settings. Lovely and functional, this coaster is hand-cast in certified food-safe pewter; the engraving is protected by clear resin and foam-backed to protect your fine table. Set of 4. www.etsy.com/shop/horseladygifts

WASMUND’S BARREL KIT

$96.50 Wasmund’s Barrel Kit is a Copper Fox exclusive that provides the casual or professional mixologist, creative chef, or true whisky connoisseur the opportunity to create his or her own beverage masterpiece! Barrels are intended to be used multiple times, with the layers of flavors evolving with each use. Savor the journey; age and season your spirits to your personal taste preference. Includes two-liter charred American White Oak mini-barrel, two 750ml bottles of spirits, detailed instructions and Barrelhead Club registration card. Ships everywhere in Virginia and some DC area stores ship all over. www.copperfox.biz

BOOKS & VIDEOS

WHERE TO GET IT

“A FOX IN THE FAMILY” by Jane King www.amazon.com/A-Fox-FamilyJane-King/dp/1499037678

“HEALTHY STABLES BY DESIGN” by John Blackburn blackburnarch.com/about/ healthy-stables-by-design

“GOODNIGHT LADIES” a documentary film by Christianna Hannum Miller swimpics@aol.com

“THE PROPHET OF PARADISE” by J. Harris Anderson bluecardinalpress.com

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“THE RED FOX IN ART” by John Orrelle www.skagitriverpress.com

EVERYTHING HORSE & HOUND www.everythinghorseandhound.com

HORSE COUNTRY, www.horsecountrylife.com

THE FOXHUNTING SHOP foxhuntingshop.com

MANHATTAN SADDLERY www.manhattansaddlery.com

HORSE & HOUND www.horseandhound.com

TRI-COUNTY FEEDS, FASHIONS, FINDS www.tricountyfeeds.com

PEWTER ORNAMENTS

Price: $18.00 - $25.00 Adorable and a must-have! These lovely pewter ornaments make perfect gifts and are sure to touch the heart of anyone who receives one. The simple red ribbon embellishment is functional and sets off the lovely pewter color. Buy several and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be left unprepared this holiday season! www.loriece.com

Grey Horse Saddlery Hunt Button Bracelet Authentic Hunt Logo button on hunt color leather band HAZEL VILLAGE DOLLS

Price: $39.00 - $72.00 Manhattan Saddlery offers two special Hazel Village dolls for the foxhunting crowd. Meet Reginald the Fox and Clover the Horse. Each animal is handmade from organic cotton, ready to become a lifelong friend. With many beautiful dress-up outfits to share, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fun for big kids, too! Reginald shows off a fancy scarlet jacket and Clover has the traditional Melton jacket (she could use a size adjustment)! Visit hazelvillage.com to read about all the personalities and adventures that these adorable animals take! www.manhattansaddlery.com

- Available in brass, silver or black - Large or small button

Order at greyhorsesaddlery@gmail.com or call 301.305.2832

Find us on Facebook at

Grey Horse Saddlery WINTER 2014 | 33

Annual GIFT GUIDE 2014

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KNITTED HATS

MIDDY N’ ME

Price: $28.00 - $50.00 Could these be any cuter? Brighten someone’s world with these affordable, colorful and lovely chenille or wool hats! There are several design choices: horses, horse and rider, hounds, snowflakes, flowers, bits, horns, or request a custom design! These hats and headbands make the perfect stocking stuffer. www.ouisha.com

Price: $395.00 Sly Reynard looks dapper on this fabulous shirt! Perfectly cut, tailored and American-made. The unique and colorful signature design is structured with luxurious and crisp premium weight cotton and detailed with eye-catching fabric. This stunning shirt is perfect for foxhunting social occasions. www.middynme.com

  

LADIES’ ROWAN TWEED UTILITY JACKET

Price: $699.00 Meld together tweed, utility and style and you have “stunning,” by Dubarry. The pure, new wool belted jacket is Teflon coated, creating a jacket with hourglass seam detail and fleece-lined hand warmer pockets. The look is sleek, feminine and the feel is warm — a must-have for the equestrian in your family! www.dubarry.us

Timeless Jewelry for the Horse Enthusiast Custom Hunt Pieces available by Commission

    



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www.michelmcnabb.com

CUFFLINKS

LITTLE FOX BRACELET Price: $80.00 A gift for you! Picture this adorable bracelet adorning your wrist. It will make a lovely addition to your jewelry collection, or buy two and give one as a gift. Michelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jewelry is inspired by her love of horses, and she is currently working on custom hunt button designs. Her design style is unique, clean and life-like. This bracelet will make the perfect gift for you or for the foxhunter in your life. www.michelmcnabb.com

Price: $1650.00 These 14-kt., Essex crystal, reverse-carved, and painted cufflinks depicting a scarletcoated hunter jumping a fence are the perfect touch to finish off that foxhunting look. They have a vintage feel, but meet a very modern need. Wear these cufflinks and feel the excitement and innocence of a day on the hunt. Imagine the delight of any man or woman who receives these as a gift! Art Deco era, 1930s. www.thevintagefoxonline.com

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Deluxe edition of 100 copies in slip case. Signed and numbered.

The Red Fox in Art A masterful, comprehensive tribute to one of the great iconic animals of art and literature â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a must-have book for all readers, collectors, and lovers of wildlife. Authored and curated by John Orrelle, this opulent, full-color book features nearly 300 paintings and sculptures. 11 x 11 inches; 360 pages; $250 Hard cover trade edition also available. $75

Available only from www.skagitriverpress.com

Unique Handmade Heirloom Quality Jewelry

Experience Oregon wine country on a fabulous riding adventure! Enjoy all the Pacific Northwest has to offer on an easy-to-get-to, six day, six night English Riding Vacation! Ride in the mountains, on the beach and through scenic vineyard land on our well-trained, sturdy and talented mounts; inclusive of wonderful accommodations, meals and transfers throughout the ride. Booking 2015 now!

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Annual GIFT GUIDE 2014

SALAMANDER RESORT & SPA

GOODSTONE INN & RESTAURANT

Experience the good life at this luxury country inn and five-star French restaurant on a 265acre estate in Middleburg’s hunt country. Surprise your loved one with a romantic weekend getaway. With 18 luxurious guest rooms and suites, Goodstone is the perfect getaway from life’s hustle and bustle. While you are out hiking or riding, don’t forget to say “hi” to Oliver, the beloved rescue pig! www.goodstone.com

Create a tradition and visit America’s newest and most accessible luxury destination resort in the heart of hunt country. Salamander Resort and Spa in Middleburg brings together time-saving accessibility, authenticity of cultural and historical experiences, unique culinary and wine programming, and an innovative spa and wellness concept. In short, you and your horse will never want to leave this 340acre equestrian estate. www.salamanderresort.com

BLACKTHORN & BROOK ENGLAND

Discover England on horseback; there is no better way to discover the beauty of the English countryside! Pamper yourself and allow Blackthorn & Brook to arrange a luxury riding or foxhunting vacation. There are also many exciting and unusual adventures to be had out of the saddle, as well. Every leg of your journey will be smooth, stress-free, and truly special. Pack up the family and brace yourselves for the vacation of a lifetime. www.blackthornandbrook.com

Getaways

BLACKBERRY FARM

As the sun rises over the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the morning mist fades to unveil one of America’s greatest hidden treasures, Blackberry Farm. Escape modern-day frenzy and treat your loved one to one of America’s most celebrated intimate, luxury hotels. Rejuvenate your body and mind with fresh mountain air, organic meals, fine wines, and memorable family adventures. www.blackberryfarm.com

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PDP students working with Geoffrey Hyde, huntsman, Elkridige-Harford Hunt.

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A member of the Professional Development Program discovers many more questions. BY TOMMY GESELL his July, over the course of three days, four students, including myself, were given the opportunity to tour kennels in Maryland and Pennsylvania as part of the curriculum offered by the MFHA’s Professional Development Program. We were allowed to tour Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds, Green Spring Valley Hounds, the kennel of a true farmer’s pack, and the home of Andrews Bridge’s black and tan Penn-Marydels. It was quite a privilege to have these hunts-

men open their kennels to us and to spend valuable time sharing their knowledge. As a new huntsman (Wiggins Hounds, Ehrhardt, South Carolina), I was excited about the prospect of meeting true professionals and discussing hounds with them. I was also looking forward to the education I was going to receive on this tour; however, nothing really prepared me for the vast amount of material that was made available to me. One of the most important philosophies that I took away

from this tour was that the best possible practice in communicating with my pack was to relax and to give them space. Observing how each huntsman took his pack out in a relaxed manner was an education all on its own. I found it both encouraging and astonishing how there appeared to be little-to-no difference to these huntsmen whether walking 15 or 40 couple. Through the kennel visits and discussions, it also became clear to me that allowing young entries to make mistakes is an essential part of building your

pack. It would appear that in order to understand discipline and consequence, the young hounds must be allowed to make a mistake to correct in the first place. Lastly, trusting and having confidence in the instincts of your hounds helps instill their trust and confidence in you. All of these ideas and thoughts were immediately implemented upon my return to Ehrhardt. In doing so, I have noticed a tremendous change in the behavior of my hounds. They are more responsive to simple body language and take direction with quieter and less frequent cues. They are much more at ease. I feel that I’ve bonded with them more by allowing them to simply relax and be hounds. Their confidence in me has improved, WINTER 2014 | 37

DENNIS FOSTER

The author and fellow PDP students Andrew Daly and Mike Gottier visit Green Spring Valley’s kennels. Huntsman Sam Clifton led the tour (instructor Andrew Barclay is in the background).

evidenced by how in-tune they are and how we appear to have somewhat of a dialogue in the field. A lovely side effect of implementing these practices is that there has also been a noticeable change in my staff. They are more relaxed and we are able to communicate in a calm, efficient manner. I can tell them what I want and how I would like it done, quietly. While it shouldn’t have been, it was a bit of a revelation to realize how much more actually goes into hunting than one thinks at the outset. There are, of course, the horses, the hounds and the quarry. But to have an understanding of all that is required to make those three things connect and transmute into the sport is something else entirely. For example, how many members of the field will recognize that having an understanding of agriculture and crops (such as Adam Townsend at Andrews Bridge, when he spoke of knowing when it’s okay to let your hounds run through a soy bean field and when it isn’t) is as important to landowner relationships as a landowner picnic? 38 | COVERTSIDE

Sam Clifton (huntsman, GSV) talks hound care with the Professional Development Program students.

One of the comments that stuck with me was when Adam told us of a farmer who pointed out to a Master that there was a difference between farming with money and farming for money. To think that understanding the difference between farmers making a living versus landowners just planting is something that might never be a consideration to a new hunter or member of the field. The need for diplomacy and politics in dealing with not only Masters, staff and members of the field, but also with landowners, farmers and the uninformed isn’t something one really thinks about when starting out in this venture. Yet it is integral to keeping the sport alive. How many people who hunt actually think about whether or not it’s a time of season when there are mice in the field and fox to chase the mice? It’s more than just saying, “we’re going to hunt this land, this way, all the time.” It is understanding one’s environment — in a personal, political and ecological sense. It brought me to an understanding that there is so much more that goes into foxhunting than many

people — even people who hunt — will ever see. Lastly, the most heartening bit of information that I carried home with me — one that brought me a great deal of relief and released some wellchewed-over anxiety — was the question of the frequency of breeding. While I deeply appreciated all of the material given to us at the more prominent kennels, I felt that the information imparted by the huntsman at Mt. Carmel spoke directly to the heart of one of my biggest concerns. To hear of his practice of breeding only every other season gave me encouragement to stick to one of my original ambitions: to keep a small kennel. This practice will allow me, as a new huntsman, to focus on steadying hounds and observing their traits without having the distraction of so many new entries. Because of this, I will be able to understand and, hopefully, develop the type of hound that will work for me. As I was boarding the plane going over the things that I’d learned over the weekend — everything from the benefits of feeding flesh and the need for

routine and efficiency to sharing the issues and challenges we students in the program are confronting — I couldn’t stop myself from thinking just as much about the questions that I didn’t ask. There is a long list: questions about breeding, the huntsmen’s preferred styles of hunting, etc. The tour of the kennels and the trip to Maryland was an enriching experience that provided me with a great many answers, however, I can’t help but be enthused by the fact that it has brought about just as many questions. I look forward to learning the answers, while hopefully getting an opportunity to ride with some of the huntsmen that I’ve met. Tommy Gesell is the huntsman for Wiggins Hounds, established in 2013 at the gracious behest of Edmund Twining III, MFH, and recognized by the MFHA in May of 2014. Though an avid and professional horseman since a very early age, Gesell’s passion for hounds and hunting didn’t become apparent until his first hunt in 2010 – a hunt that was presented to him as a “trail ride,” to which he brought a mustang and rode in a Western saddle.

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18” x 18” Giclee on Fine 100% Cotton Rag Paper $250 24” x 24” Giclee on Canvass $450 Make checks payable & mail to: The Mountain & Muse Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 651 Lisbon, MD 21765 The Mountain and Muse Foundation Inc. is a charity organization; contributions are deductible to the extent allowed by law.

On September 13, 1814, legend has it that a ship rode at anchor in the Chesapeake Bay waiting to enter the Port of Baltimore. On it were two Irish hounds, Mountain and Muse. Fort McHenry was being bombarded, and the ship was in danger of running out of food and water or running the blockade. As dawn broke on September 14, Francis Scott Key (also held aboard a ship in the Inner Harbor) saw the Star-Spangled Banner flying over the fort’s ramparts. America had won the battle! Key then penned the poem “Defence of Fort M’Henry,” which would later become our national anthem, and Mountain and Muse forever changed the sport of American foxhunting. Original commissioned oil-on-board by Sara Renzulli.

The Pierre

Fox Hunters for Sale Cathy Carr Taber

(229) 403-4554

Carrdian.com

NEW MASTER’S LUNCH & SEMINAR (by invitation only) January 29, 2015 at 12pm at The Pierre A chance for new Masters to meet the MFHA Board of Directors. Seminar will begin immediately following lunch and will be led by past MFHA President Marty Wood, MFH Live Oak Hounds. MASTER’S DINNER January 29, 2015, Cocktails at 7pm, Dinner at 8pm at the Union Club Cost: $275/pp Masters and ex-Masters only

The Union Club

ANNUAL MEMBERS MEETING/SEMINAR January 30, 2015 at 9am at the Union Club Must be a current subscribing member (jacket & tie required) Keynote Speaker: Nigel Peel MASTERS’ BALL January 30, 2015, Cocktails at 7pm, Dinner at 8pm at The Pierre Cost: $275/pp Must be a current subscribing member For more information, please contact Yolanda Knowlton at (914) 393-9916

WINTER 2014 | 39

Alasdair Storer, huntsman for NMMV.

A KAREN L. MYERS

LASDAIR STORER and his family have been heavily involved in hunting hounds for generations. He held positions as professional whipper-in and huntsman with several foxhound packs in the United Kingdom, United States and Canada for ten years before becoming huntsman for New Market Middletown Valley (NMMV) in Middletown, Maryland, in 2014. New Marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s territory varies from the steep, wooded

in in

Alasdair Storer shares his strategies for mastering the intricacies of a new pack and territory. BY KATY CARTER

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Owner: Masters of Foxhounds Association, P.O. Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Securities Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None 12. Tax Status: 501(c)4 13. Publication Title: Covertside 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: Fall, 2014

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foothills of Sugarloaf Mountain to the ridges and slopes of Braddock and South mountains, as well as some open farmland within the watersheds of the Monocacy and Potomac rivers. How do you learn new country? ALASDAIR: I’m very fortunate

observation skills sharp. Twenty-

come an extension of you. You

or Master! It can get interest-

five miles into unknown territory

get to know the individual traits

ing when out hunting. And, like

with no cell phone reception

and characters of each one. I

anything, sometimes hounds

can be treacherous. You need to

usually start with a specific litter

from pack to pack are similar in looks or characteristics. We

i e on n in o n n o n or e in ere in en o

i on er! n n in

to have a great team of amateur staff and great farmers and landowners. Living, driving and working in our country enables me to learn our country quickly. Google Earth is a wonderful tool. Working on our country is

have a hound here called Virtue; she also reminds me of an old hound of mine called Vital from many years ago. Walking out one day, I was calling her Vital; my whipper-in stated,

know where the start point is in

and learn a litter at a time. My

“That’s not Vital, Sir, that’s

order to get home!

six-year-old daughter had the

Virtue.” I responded, “Well, no

NMMV pack names down in

wonder she acted deaf the last

three weeks from walking out

week.”

How do you learn hounds’ names?

imperative. In western Maryland,

ALASDAIR: Learning hound

we have a lot of potential to

names is like asking a farmer

grow our fixtures and, in time,

how he learns each individual

add new fixtures. Having grown

sheep out of a flock of 5,000.

up in hill and mountain country

As with livestock, it is with

has certainly helped me. It’s

hounds. As a huntsman, you’re

vital to have your bearings and

with hounds so much they be-

with me. My advice on naming hounds is don’t call any hounds Madam

Katy Carter is the associate editor for Covertside and the editor of ecovertside.net.

DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION FOR A HUNTSMAN? WRITE KATY@COVERTSIDE.NET

WINTER 2014 | 41

Aiken hounds relaxing by the pool at the home of Master Linda McLean.

A 401K FOR HO NDS

BY GLENYE CAIN OAKFORD

LINDA MCLEAN

o n

o e

Retired foxhounds can make it as house hounds with the right training. BY POLLY WILSON have a habit of bringing home strays. Therefore, it should not have come as a surprise that I brought Benny home. Benny was clearly becoming fond of hanging about with the second field rather than hunting, and, although we all loved to have him with us, it was time for Benny to retire. He was one of the original pack members from when the Few Hounds Hunt became the Green Mountain Hounds. Aptly named, there had been only three couple regularly hunted by Elaine Ittleman, MFH and huntsman, at the inception of Few Hounds Hunt. Three years before his retirement, Benny was nose to the ground and in the game. As the last few seasons progressed, he slowed down. By the time Benny was actually retired, he was beyond ready. I called his name and he hopped into the 42 | COVERTSIDE

truck. I told friends that he came with his golf shoes and a condo in Florida. Benny is an example of a retired foxhound who was ready to move from the kennel to the hearth and he did so with ease. Since then, I have taken three other hounds, all with equally big personalities and each with a different take on retirement. Last year, a hunt member who was considering retiring a hound from her hunt had asked Terry Hook, MFH, what he knew about re-homing a hound. Terry then referred her to me. It has occurred to me that fellow hunt members might (in secret) be calling me “the crazy hound lady.” After a couple of emails about what to expect from a hound in the house, she thanked me and sent a picture of her new family member. I began to wonder how often people take retired hounds home. Is it

common practice with hunts in general? How successful is the practice of letting members take on hounds? So, I put out the question to followers of Foxhunters on Facebook and to the huntsmen I knew, and this is what I found. WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT

Kate Selby, huntsman for Green Mountain Hounds, says that she believes that it becomes clear when to retire a hound. “An older hound who is slowing down is one thing, but when they can’t physically keep up they can become a danger to themselves. Exhaustion, increasing lameness issues, and inability to recover quickly from a day out are all clear signs that hunting days are coming to an end.” Ittleman has two retirees from her days

The Hound Welfare Fund in Lexington, Kentucky, is a 501(c)(3) charity that covers the costs of the Iroquois Hunt’s retired hounds, but is entirely separate from the hunt. It’s a win-win-win model, say HWF organizers: supporters’ donations are tax-deductible, the hunt can safely retire its hounds, and the money the charity raises for the retired hounds goes directly to those hounds, who are no longer covered by the hunt’s budget when they leave the pack due to age or injury. A group of foxhound lovers — both Iroquois members and non-members — founded the HWF in 2000. Iroquois Joint MFH Jerry Miller had long been retiring older pack members at his own expense. Inspired by his personal policy, HWF organizers wanted to develop a permanent funding solution for the future that could guarantee the retirees’ care beyond Miller’s mastership and share the cost among those who appreciated the hounds and the sport they gave. The HWF receives doGlowworm ’97 One of the Hound Welfare Fund’s retirees, Glowworm enjoys life in the kennels. continued on page 44

LISA READER

Welfare Fund, a nonprofit run separately from the hunt, which allows their venerable retirees to continue their lives in the kennels. The Hound Welfare Fund works hard to raise money to support the retired hounds (see sidebar). Deb Riley of Middlebrook Hounds is, whether by choice or by proxy, the staff for the retirement pack. Her farm, Finalea Farm, is aptly Retired hound Kisser introduces pony club kids to foxhunting. named for the hounds who get the pleasure of retiring there. She also confesses to keeping a couple of retired staff horses, as huntsman. She would rather and a few cats, too. see a hound in work for as long Riley says, “First, you must as it enjoys the hunt. When it is know that foxhounds are the time to retire a hound, however, most grateful of all the dogs I she prefers to see hounds go to a have ever had the honor of takhunt member who understands what kennel life has been like and ing care of ... or loving. They go will understand the personality of day-to-day having the love and affection of one person — the a foxhound. Lorraine Groneau of Limestone Creek Hunt has retired huntsman. They return his love by hunting and working hard to out many hounds. “Some just do find chase for him and the field of better to stay at the kennels and followers. They look at him with some have great second careers love and affection and then tiredly as house hounds,” Groneau says. return to the kennel awaiting When Limestone Creek hounds his next arrival. In the end, they are adopted, a formal agreement transfer that love and affection — is signed by the huntsman, MFH if only for a brief time — to the and the new owner. Terms are people that show them love until clear that the new owner is rethey leave us to go hunting with sponsible for the hound and will incur all expenses henceforth. For the ultimate huntsman above.” hounds who prefer the consistent life of a kennel, Lori lets them THE HOUND IN THE SINK stay on and employs them to Retiring a hound from its pack teach the puppies their manners. can be stressful. It’s a bit like what Some hunts have desigEliza Doolittle went through in nated retirement kennels. The “My Fair Lady.” Until you witness Iroquois Hunt has The Hound it, you have no idea how refined

a life house pets have in comparison to kenneled pack life. The good news is that, generally speaking, foxhounds are smart. They learn fast and they want to please. The bad news is that foxhounds like to run. They have a curiosity that makes great hunters, but can cause havoc when they decide to check out the new neighborhood. Hounds have a hard time figuring out what is okay and what is forbidden when it comes to countertops, tables, and other high places. Finding a hound in the sink is always a surprise. If you have other dogs, they may be stunned at how fast a hound can devour its own food

and then grab its companions’ dinners as well. Finally, I would be remiss if I did not mention that house-training an older hound is tricky and should be the number one priority to maintain peace in the house. Once again, the good news is that they do learn fast with firm instruction. It takes a bit of time and patience to retrain a hound. One key element to making the transition easier for everyone is making — and keeping — boundaries. If you love your white couch, then make that room off-limits. If you can’t get out for a walk for exercise, then fence in an area for your hound

WINTER 2014 | 43

Integrity. Craftsmanship. to move about. Expect holes. Digging is what dogs do; hounds do it really well. I find a large dog crate creates harmony for all the occupants of my house, including the hound himself. It is a cozy place to den up. It might be six months before you see the changes, but your hound will adapt. Or, as my friend and fellow hunter from Old North Bridge Hounds, Suzanne Adams, says, “I’ll never have another kind of dog but foxhounds. They are so devoted.”

As this season end approaches, you may notice a hound in your pack who has slowed down, and prefers to stay by the huntsman’s stirrup. Maybe the hound missed a few meets. This will be the hound that needs a retirement home. Step up and ask the huntsman or staff if there is a need for adoption. You will not be disappointed and neither will the hound. Polly Wilson hunts with Green Mountain Hounds, where members call her “The Hound Lady.”

Retirement Fund continued from page 42

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nations from both hunt members and from non-hunters who have met the hounds at the hunt’s public Blessing of the Hounds ceremony or seen media stories about them. Because the HWF is a separate charitable organization, the IroPancake ’99 quois Hunt can’t tap those funds for its own projects. However, the Another of HWF’s retirees is hunt has enjoyed real benefits from the popular Pancake, ambassador for the fund. its hounds’ association with HWF. The retired hounds remain kenneled alongside the hunting pack, and the retirement program has raised positive awareness of the hunt locally; opened the door for the club’s non-hunting social members to learn more about hunting through the retirees’ stories; and generated positive media attention for the hunt. The program also protects hunt members from any scandal that could stem from discarding healthy animals. In addition, it has endeared the hunt to the community, says Iroquois Joint Master and Huntsman Lilla S. Mason. “As local citizens participate in HWF fundraisers, they’re touched by how much the hounds are loved and see what a good example we’re setting for animal welfare,” she says. None of the HWF’s members receive any compensation, and they work hard to find sponsors to cover fundraising costs so that all donated money can go to the hounds. In return, the retired hounds are beloved ambassadors “When people visit our kennel, they leave remembering the retired hounds and how touching it is that they live out their days with the pack,” Mason says. “An old dog doesn’t need luxury, just warmth in the winter, a cool place in the summer, food and water, and loving care. And a chance to die naturally or be put down by a veterinarian when the natural process of aging ruins their quality of life.”

NANCY KLECK

Charter was elated to be in the hands of Piedmont Huntsman Spencer Allen.

i o

r i e

Live Oak Charter traveled many miles and lived to tell the tale. BY DAPHNE WOOD, MFH

n April 5, 2014, an unentered dog hound named Live Oak Charter won his class at the Southern Hound Show and went on to win Champion Crossbred Hound

of the show. There was great excitement about showing him at Virginia, as the competition at the Southern Hound Show is stiff and he had won under the expert eyes of judge Nigel Peel, MFH, and huntsman of

the North Cotswold in England, and Linda Armbrust, MFH, of the Blue Ridge Hunt. Memorial Day weekend arrived as did 19 couple of Live Oak hounds at Morven Park in Virginia.

In years past, the trailer parking has been near the kennels and on the same side of the road. This year however, parking was across the main driveway and beyond the parking lot. As usual, Huntsman Dale Barnett walked the hounds out for about half an hour after the long drive, fed them at the trailer and then headed up to kennels on the back side next to the woods. The older hounds know the drill, and walked past the hundreds of other hounds barking their heads off without turning a hair. When staff was sorting out which kennel hounds were to be in, Charter and an unentered bitch named Perfect got terribly frightened by all the chaos and bolted. Dale took the pack back out and walked around for two hours blowing the horn and calling, trying to find the totally spooked hounds with no success. The next four mornings Dale arrived before daylight and stayed around the kennel late each evening trying to find the missing puppies, to no avail. He was in despair when Monday morning arrived and it was time for the 14-hour drive home. Reward flyers, banners and posters produced by Nancy WINTER 2014 | 45

CATHY TABER

Live Oak Charter was crowned Champion Crossbred Hound at the 2014 Southern Hound Show. Spooked by the chaos at the kennels at Morven Park, she never got to show at the Virginia Hound Show. Instead, she wandered for a few months before being trapped near Middleburg.

Kleck were posted all around the neighborhood and the Morven Park staff could not have been more helpful and supportive. Piedmont Huntsman Spencer Allen made endless trips back to Morven Park trying to blow them in. Retired Fairfax Hunt Huntsman Kevin Palmer took over, leaving food in a dog trap that we had borrowed from Loudoun County Animal Control while Spencer went to the Bryn Mawr Hound Show. Finally, Perfect went into the trap and when Spencer went to pick her up, she got in the front seat of his truck and put her head on his leg as if to say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;What took you so long?â&#x20AC;? Charles Montgomery, now huntsman at Bull Run, was 46 | COVERTSIDE

anxious for Live Oak blood, so we gave Perfect to him and she was walking out at Bull Run in short order, as she had been at home all winter. We then got numerous reports that Charter was seen around the tennis club south of Middleburg on Zulla Rd. At first we discounted these reports because of the huge distance he would have had to cover, not to mention the busy roads he would have had to cross, but Spencer saw him at a distance and we knew he had indeed headed south toward home, so Spencer got the trap that had caught Perfect and started baiting it behind the tennis club. As Charter is bigger than Perfect, one morning Spencer found the

food gone, the trap door closed, but no Charter! We deduced that he crawled into the low trap, got the food, and triggered the door which fell on his back but did not catch him. Now we had a big problem because hounds are very smart and we knew that he would now be trap shy. Spencer, with the full support of Tad Zimmerman, MFH of Piedmont, continued to put food out and hope Charter would put hunger over fear of traps. He did not and this went on for weeks. I tried to find a bigger trap, but was unsuccessful in my quest. By now Charter had become quite the subject on Facebook and I was contacted by Nancy

Kleck who said she was determined not to give up. I bought a trail camera for her and we confirmed that he was staying in the area around Zulla Rd. and Route 50. Nancy enlisted the help of local residents around the farm where he was known to be living since June. She hung a bucket of food and got regular photos of him; he was emaciated, with every rib showing. He was tucked up like a greyhound. Nancy said she thought he had a jaw injury. I was in denial, but could not figure out why he was so thin with all the food Nancy was regularly leaving for him. Then Nancy came up with a brilliant plan to buy a hog trap. She researched it online and, $540 later, we had an eight foot

long trap that was four feet wide and three feet tall. With Spencer’s help, Nancy took the trap to farrier Wayne Van Sant to be modified for our purpose. He kindly did the work free of charge. The trap was put in place and then came the process of acclimating Charter to the idea of not being afraid of the trap by getting him accustomed to eating inside it. This was clearly our last chance to save his life! She fed him near it, then just inside the door with the doors tied up. Cooked organ meats, hot dogs, suet, burger, softened kibble, and a fresh bucket of water were on offer. The trail camera told all and we began to think we might get him. We emailed daily and Nancy always reminded me to “keep the faith!” The day of reckoning arrived, the doors were wired to fall, and the food and water were well to the back of the trap. Nancy and Wayne staged a “stakeout” several hundred yards from the trap, settling in and waiting for Charter to arrive on the scene. Just minutes after Nancy and Wayne set the trap for hopefully the final time, Charter walked all the way in and the doors came down perfectly and caught him! The eagle had landed! Charter was calm the entire time and let Spencer handle him without a hint of anxiety. Spencer took him to Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates where I had already, in an abundance of hope, sent his shot records. Elation was over the top and it seemed that it was time to

celebrate heartily, but I soon received a message to call the vet immediately. The information was chilling and horrifying. The vet said she could smell Charter before she even saw him and when she examined him, she found that his jaw was broken in four places, half his tongue had been cut off and the wound was old and horribly infected. Charter had to stay at the veterinary hospital for five days to strengthen before the vets felt he could withstand the surgery. He was terribly anemic due to tick disease and when the surgery was performed on Monday, September 22, Dr. Walker had to take out a lot of jawbone and dead teeth and rebuilt his lower jaw. When Dr. Walker called me following the surgery, he said that had Charter been a hyper or nervous dog he wouldn’t even have tried to save him. He described him as the perfect patient so we hope and pray he will make a full recovery even if he has to eat soft food for the rest of his life. Marty and I do not have children; our hounds are our children. We did not hesitate to make the decision to give him a chance to live even if his condition meant that he could only be a pet. We cannot thank enough the many people that helped with this and followed him on Facebook praying for his recovery and safe return to Live Oak. Daphne Wood is MFH of Live Oak Hounds, and board member-at-large of the MFHA.

WINTER 2014 | 47

Fairly Hunted continued from page 10

COURTESY MILL CREEK

Fabi Schlicht has hunted for the last three years (always first field) and is 14 years old. She loves to hunt, more then everthing else in the world, and she likes to jump high and to ride really fast.

It’s time to order your 2015 MFHA Foxhunting Calendar! A great gift for hunt members, landowners, friends and family. Profits from sales support the MFHA’s efforts to preserve, protect and promote foxhunting. PRICE:

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PHOTO: Running hard on the line BY ADRIAN JENNINGS

or 48 | COVERTSIDE

A eri n o

n in

OLIVIA HEATH ...........................................Green Mountain Hounds CELIA HEATH .............................................Green Mountain Hounds MISS SASHA HELLER .............................Arapahoe Hunt MISS SAMANTHA HELLER...................Arapahoe Hunt LIZA HENDRICKS .....................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds NATALIE HENDRICKS.............................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds PARKER HENDRICKS .............................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds ALLISON HERR ..........................................Radnor Hunt MIMI HERR....................................................Radnor Hunt BRADY HOFFMAN ...................................Elkridge-Harford Hunt OLIVIA HORNBECK.................................Elkridge-Harford Hunt EMILY HOVIS ...............................................Mission Valley Hunt Club ANASTASIA IGLIKOVA...........................Myopia Hunt KATE ILLEMSZKY .....................................Rappahannock Hunt EMILY IRWIN ...............................................Wellington Waterloo Hunt MIKENSEY JOHANSEN..........................Midland Fox Hounds ADDIE JOHNSON .....................................Deep Run Hunt CAROLINE KELLER .................................Andrews Bridge Foxhounds KYLIEE KELSEY .........................................Lowcountry Hunt EMMA KENNY ............................................Ottawa Valley Hunt MISS SARAH KERFOOT ........................Camden Hunt MATTHEW KERR.......................................Camargo Hunt MASTER J. P. KNEEN ..............................Arapahoe Hunt MISS CASSIE KNEEN ..............................Arapahoe Hunt LIAM KNIGHT..............................................Green Mountain Hounds BRYSON KNIGHT ......................................Green Mountain Hounds MISS CAROLINE KOMODORE ...........Arapahoe Hunt GRACE KOWIS ...........................................Rappahannock Hunt CAROLINE KRAEUTER ..........................Lowcountry Hunt JUSTINE KUHNLE .....................................Smithtown Hunt CLAIRE LACEY...........................................Lowcountry Hunt MISS RUBY LAKE ......................................Myopia Hunt SHELBY LANGLOIS .................................Green Spring Valley Hounds HUNTER LASKOWSKI ............................Wellington Waterloo Hunt LEXIE LEDYARD ........................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds MELISSA LEMPICKI .................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds

ELEANOR LIEDER ....................................Long Lake Hounds MORGAN LIMEHOUSE ...........................Lowcountry Hunt BARRY LIMEHOUSE ................................Lowcountry Hunt MR. ANDREW LOONEY.........................Middleburg Hunt HAILEY LOVETT ........................................Oak Grove Hunt STEPHANIE (MUFFY) LUNDY ............Eglinton and Caledon Hunt SOPHIA MARCINKIEWICZ...................Bridlespur Hunt SARAH “MAGEE” MARTIN ..................North Hills Hunt PAIGE MATHER..........................................Smithtown Hunt LUCY MATZ..................................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds ALEX MATZ..................................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds HANNAH MCCOWAN .............................Chula Homa Hunt EVELYN MCGEE.........................................Oak Grove Hunt SKYLAR MCKENNA .................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds NINA MCKENNA .......................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds MARSHAL WILLIAM MCKINLEY .......Beaver Meadow Foxhounds CAROLINE MCKNIGHT ..........................Elkridge-Harford Hunt ARAN MCMANUS .....................................Ottawa Valley Hunt LEE LEE MCNEIL .......................................Radnor Hunt ELIZA MUHAMMED MENKE ................Bridlespur Hunt CHELSEA MILEY .......................................Lowcountry Hunt VIRGINIA MILLER .....................................Woodbrook Hunt BRENNA MILLER ......................................Green Spring Valley Hounds WILLOW MILLER-RICHARDS.............Caroline Hunt GARRIT MOL ...............................................Lowcountry Hunt KATHLEEN MOLONEY ...........................Iroquois Hunt MARGARET MOLONEY .........................Iroquois Hunt MICHAELA MOORE .................................Caroline Hunt SAMANTHA MORAN...............................North Hills Hunt BROOKE MORFIT .....................................Caroline Hunt MISS MERCEDES MULDOON..............Arapahoe Hunt JACK MULQUEEN.....................................De La Brooke Foxhounds W ABBY MURPHY ..........................................Green Spring Valley Hounds KENNEDY NICHOLSON .........................Midland Fox Hounds ALMA NICHOLSON..................................Green Spring Valley Hounds TATE NORTHROP .....................................Long Run Hounds ASHLEY NOTTINGHAM .........................Huntingdon Valley Hunt HENRY NYLEN ...........................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds HANNAH O’BRIEN ...................................Green Spring Valley Hounds MS. SIOBHAN O’CONNOR ...................Middleburg Hunt MR. RORY O’CONNOR...........................Middleburg Hunt DELANEY O’NEIL .....................................Elkridge-Harford Hunt GIGI OLSEN .................................................Woodbrook Hunt ARMY OLSEN .............................................Woodbrook Hunt EMILY OUTERBRIDGE ............................Wellington Waterloo Hunt AIDEN OUTERBRIDGE...........................Wellington Waterloo Hunt GABRIELLE PASQUALE ........................Windy Hollow Hunt LAURA PASSANT......................................Wellington Waterloo Hunt MISS LAUREN PATOILE .........................Arapahoe Hunt MISS CARLY PAYNE.................................Mooreland Hunt JANE PEABODY ........................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds FRANCIS PEABODY ................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds CAITLIN PESSOLANO ............................Caroline Hunt MISS JESSICA PETERSON ...................Mooreland Hunt ADA PLUMB.................................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds ABBY POLANSKY.....................................Princess Anne Hunt CARMEN POWELL-SADIK ...................Ottawa Valley Hunt MARGARET PROFFITT ..........................Deep Run Hunt JOSEPHINE QUADE ................................Lowcountry Hunt HARRISON QUADE..................................Lowcountry Hunt WILLIAM QUADE......................................Lowcountry Hunt NOAH RATHJEN........................................Fraser Valley Hunt CHRIS REITHMEIER .................................Cloudline Hounds

WINTER 2014 | 49

HANNAH RHODERICK ...........................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds CAITLYN RIDGEWAY ..............................Shakerag Hounds ANNABEL RIEBEL ....................................Rockbridge Hunt LAURA ROBERTS .....................................Green Spring Valley Hounds MISS LILLIAN ROGERS ..........................Arapahoe Hunt JAMES ROTH ..............................................Long Run Hounds MISS MCCAELA ROUNDS ....................Arapahoe Hunt BELLA ROYAL ............................................Red Mountain Foxhounds Inc HAYLEE RUSSELL ....................................South Creek Foxhounds GAYLAN RYUS ...........................................Myopia Hunt ALEX SANDS...............................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds ISABEL SANDVIK......................................Chula Homa Hunt MASTER VINNY SANGALINE .............Arapahoe Hunt MISS MACKENZIE SAUNDERS...........Arapahoe Hunt KATE SAUTTER..........................................Woodford Hounds LIZA SAUTTER ...........................................Woodford Hounds FABI SCHLICHT .........................................Mill Creek Hunt GRACIE SCHRINER ..................................Long Run Hounds ELIZABETH SCULLY................................Green Spring Valley Hounds JOHN SHAVER ...........................................Ottawa Valley Hunt ELEANOR JANE SHERMAN ................Mill Creek Hunt OLIVIA SISK ................................................Rappahannock Hunt DANIEL SMITH ...........................................Chula Homa Hunt MISS GRACE SMITH.................................Camden Hunt AVERY SMITH .............................................Green Spring Valley Hounds COLIN SMITH ..............................................Green Spring Valley Hounds MACKENSIE SMITH..................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds MISS KAMDYN SMITH.............................Arapahoe Hunt GAVIN JAMES SNOWHITE...................Palm Beach Hounds ANGUS SPENCE ........................................North Country Hounds FIONA SPENCE..........................................North Country Hounds PEYTON ST LOUIS ...................................Caroline Hunt SARAH STANLEY ......................................Caroline Hunt ABBY STOLL ...............................................Bridlespur Hunt RALEIGH STRANG ...................................Andrews Bridge Foxhounds CATIE STRICKLAND................................Red Mountain Foxhounds Inc JACK STUTS ................................................Deep Run Hunt JACK STUTTS .............................................Deep Run Hunt CALDER STUTTS.......................................Deep Run Hunt ALLISON SUBER .......................................Lowcountry Hunt WILLIAM SWAIN.......................................Woodford Hounds ADARE TAYLOR.........................................Radnor Hunt MISS NATALIE TIDWELL.......................Mooreland Hunt KATIE TIGHE ...............................................Shakerag Hounds KATE TWITTY.............................................Lowcountry Hunt ROSE VALKOVA ........................................Ottawa Valley Hunt EVA VON JAGOW ....................................Ottawa Valley Hunt HARRY WALKER.......................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds MAXWELL WATTERS-ROUND...........Camargo Hunt MAYA WENTZ.............................................South Creek Foxhounds HAL WESTERLUND .................................Green Spring Valley Hounds PHIN WESTERLUND ...............................Green Spring Valley Hounds SKYLER WILKERSON.............................South Creek Foxhounds RACHEL WILKOSKI .................................Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds JULIA WILLETT .........................................Myopia Hunt GIACOMO WILSON .................................London Hunt DANNY WILSON .......................................Toronto and North York Hunt CAITLIN WRIGHT .....................................Bridlespur Hunt TABITHA WYBLE ......................................Bridlespur Hunt RACHEL CHAN YANEFF .......................Eglinton and Caledon Hunt ALISON ZADOR ........................................Lowcountry Hunt

50 | COVERTSIDE

Whiskey Road Foxhounds’

HUNT WEEK 2015 February 4th-February 12th Aiken, South Carolina

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Please send inquiries to:

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FARE FLASK

from A

MICHAEL STERN

Centerpiece music in the Fairfield County Hounds club room on opening day. Right: Jo’s pecan tassies.

NOT A CR

LEFT

BY MICHAEL STERN

OUNDS were blessed and stirrup cups drunk under the slate sky of a rainswept October morning. Fairfield County Hounds, the oldest live fox hunt in Connecticut, began the club’s 90th season following 14-1/2 couple Penn-Marydels across the lawn of the kennels and alongside a meadow of 52 | COVERTSIDE

grazing Belted Galloways. Then: “Gone away!” thundering over coop and stone wall, muddy ditch and hay bale into a blaze of sugar-maple woodlands. Three hours later, pursuers returned in a fragrant cloud of horse sweat and leather, soaked to the bone and hungry as hell. Every Saturday during hunt season, FCH hosts breakfast for members and families, land-

owners and friends; and while Wednesday’s informal hunts might be followed by a visit en masse to the ad hoc café at the old Bridgewater General Store, Saturday breakfasts are extravagant affairs. They take place on the kennel grounds in what was once a cow barn but is now a comfortable club room, its walls decked with cases of prize ribbons and silver trophies and portraits of hounds, horses, and riders from seasons past. Members take turns hosting the rest of the year, but the opening day banquet is the prerogative of Masters Bill Stuart, Joanna Dunn Samson, and Jo Mayer. Jo readies the club room kitchen first thing in the morning, rides out as whipper-in (she’s also the kennel director), then returns to finish cooking while riders gather around the hearth and share the day’s tales of tally-hos and derring-do. Any vegetarians, vegans, or other nutritionally challenged folk face a culinary obstacle course, for this is an unabashed meat and potatoes meal. A roast filet of lavishly marbled beef is cut into thick medallions,

accompanied by escalloped potatoes and leeks ribboned with gorgonzola dolce, and sided by baked stuffed tomatoes and a medley of green beans, asparagus, and peas topped with chow chow. It’s hearty fare, but those in the know reserve plenty of appetite for dessert. Make that plural: desserts, for the panoply is staggering. “I’m a southern girl,” Jo says to justify the abundance of elegant sweets. There are pecan tassies (tartlets), cream cheese brownies, strawberries and whipped cream, a capacious bowl of trifle, and the crowning glory: coconut layer cake enrobed in icing made according to the recipe Jo got from her grandmother. The glossy icing is infused with enough sour cream to sing tangy harmony with coconut. Never in remembered history has there been a crumb of Jo’s cake left over by the time breakfasters say good night. Michael Stern has co-authored over forty books about American food and popular culture. He created roadfood.com and is heard weekly on Public Radio’s The Splendid Table.

the recipe

Note that icing should be made the day before the cake is baked and the iced cake should be refrigerated several hours or overnight. So plan ahead!

MICHAEL STERN

ICING: • 2 cups sugar • 2 cups sour cream • 2 cups shredded coconut

CAKE: • 1 cup room-temperature butter • 2 cups sugar • 4 eggs, separated • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 3 cups all-purpose flour • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 cup milk • 2 cups shredded coconut PREPARATION: Mix the icing ingredients, cover, and let the mixture sit in the refrigerator overnight.

Grease and flour three 9-inch cake pans. Cut rounds of wax paper to fit the bottom of each pan, grease and flour them and add them to the pans. Beat together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolks one by one, beating well after each. Beat in the vanilla. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold them into the batter. Fold in the coconut. Pour the batter into the three pans. Bake 25-30 minutes until the edges begin to pull away from the sides of the pan. Let the cake cool in the pans, then turn out onto lightly oiled racks to cool. When the cake is cool, ice it, layer by layer, and let it sit in the refrigerator several hours or overnight.

The next day, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

WINTER 2014 | 53

o e ro e bb in ib io i e oo b BY ARLENE TAYLOR AKA “THE GALLOPING LIBRARIAN”

THE ETERAN He asks no favour from the Field, no forward place demands

he withdrawal one goes through each Canadian winter after our hunt season ends has been eased somewhat by the formation of our very own Eglinton and Caledon Hunt book club. This enthusiastic group meets once a month at alternating locations to eat, drink and be merry. (Oh, and discuss some fine literature!) The objective of the club is to introduce members to as many works about hunting and country pursuits as we can manage in each meeting. Therefore we each generally read different books every month as this allows for greater exposure to fantastic literature or poetry. It also sometimes proves difficult to obtain some of the more obscure, ancient or valuable volumes so this ensures that by trading them around, each member has the opportunity to experience reading a rare book that he or she may otherwise never have come across.

Each month individual members keep a journal of books or poetry they have read and have five minutes in the spotlight to present their thoughts and reviews, picks and pans. The ensuing discussion is lively, thoughtful or poignant depending upon the resulting critique. Using this format often whets others’ appetites to read the same book at a later date. Works included thus far have run from famous hunting poems, adventure/travel literature, to modern hunting stories and true classics from the field. The learning curve has been steep and the appreciation for the history and passion involved in our sport has been enhanced with each passing month. I would encourage other hunts to follow our lead, as the general hunting knowledge of the book club members has increased by the gallop! If one must spend the winter without the rigors of the glorious chase, at least we can live vicariously through the adventuresome lives of famous huntsmen, Masters and characters in the field. In future articles I will chronicle some of our meetings, highlighting one or two books and reviewing our comments and opinions, but for now I have enclosed a beautiful verse by the famous poet Will Ogilvie. This particular representation of his work brought a tear to many eyes. Happy hunting and reading!

Save what he claims by fearless heart and light and dainty hands; No man need make a way for him at ditch or gap or gate, He rides on level terms with all, if not at equal weight. His eyes are somewhat dimmer than they were in days of yore, A blind fence flow might trap him where it never trapped before; But when the rails stand clean and high, the walls stand big and bare, There’s no man rides so boldly as there’s no man rides so fair. There is no other in the Field so truly loved as he; We better like to see him out than any younger three; And yet one horseman day by day rides jealous at his rein Old Time that smarts beneath the whip of fifty years’ disdain. He crowds him at his fences, for he envies his renown; Some day he’ll Cross him at a leap and bring a good man down, And Time will take a long revenge for years of laughing scorn, And fold the faded scarlet that was ne’er more nobly worn. Here’s luck! Oh! good, grey sportsman! May Time be long defied By careful seat and Cunning hand and health and heart to ride, And when that direful day be come that surely shall befall, We’ll know you still unbeaten, save by Time that beats us all!

The back cover of an out-of-print edition of W.H. Ogilvie’s “Galloping Shoes.”

54 | COVERTSIDE

W. H. Ogilvie

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See page 48 for more information WINTER 2014 | 55

LAST RUN OF THE DAY Photograph by David Reed

Airborne! Live Oak Eager ’13 was reserve champion Crossbred bitch at the Virginia Foxhound Show in 2014. Here she looks like a flying dog in her exuberance at the start of a hunt in Monticello, Florida. Eager has an interesting pedigree as she is tail male to the only treeing Walker coonhound to be world champion twice. —DAPHNE WOOD, MFH

EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you have a photo, story or essay to share with Covertside? Send high-resolution, 300 dpi photographs or essays to editor@covertside.net, or snail mail to Covertside, 2329 Lakeview Rd. SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105 56 | COVERTSIDE

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115 NORTH 21ST STREET PURCELLVILLE VA | 10 E. WASHINGTON STREET MIDDLEBURG, VA