History

The Hampshire County Riding Club was officially Incorporated on January 10, 1946, though it began in the early 1940’s with a group of about 30 men with a variety of uses for their horses, wanting to form a riding club. Photos show that many founding members rode in the parade at the dedication of the Coolidge Bridge in Northampton in 1939! Organized in 1944, the Club became official in 1946, with the intent to “foster an interest in the use of horses and support an increased knowledge in horsemanship.”

Early club grounds were in Northampton, but as the city grew they needed more room to expand and enjoy open space for equine activities.  In 1967 they purchased the 45 acre parcel of land which is the existing club grounds on Ball Road in Goshen.

In the early 1970’s the hard-working membership of about 100 members worked to clear the wooded property.  They created usable space which included two large riding rings, a secretary’s booth, beautiful grass fields, ample parking, and three miles of trails on the wooded area of the property.

A clubhouse developed from the farmhouse originally part of the land parcel, where they enjoyed meetings and social gatherings. They held many organized trail rides on and off their new property, which even included a 35 mile endurance ride around the surrounding towns that was based out of the club grounds!  With their beautiful new rings and grounds completed, they started holding several horse shows each year.

The Club has hosted many varied events over the years including different types of horse shows, gymkhana’s, trail rides, obstacle competitions, as well as a variety of clinics — from western dressage to versatility and obstacle training, 4H Fun Days, and guest speakers at meetings.

Today, HCRC has about 80 members, many involved in events and volunteer opportunities, on foot or horseback! Our large parcel of land is gorgeous and offers a very quiet and serene place for members to ride and enjoy. A variety of interesting events are planned for members to continue learning and sharing experiences with their horse community young and old. The Club is very welcoming to new and existing members and open to member’s ideas and input to make the club better.

Consider becoming a member of HCRC!