Horses of History

Hillsboro Historical Society Presents – Horses of History

Horses of History is the remarkable story of the discovery of the Wilbur-Cruce Spanish Barb Horse. Although this non-feral rancher strain originated in southern Arizona, the breed played an important role in the development of the greater Southwest including New Mexico. On March 21st, at 4:00 pm at the Hillsboro Community Center, Steve Dobrott will present the amazing discovery of this remnant herd of horses, their struggles to survive and the wild west drama between a women rancher and a greedy cattle baron.

Steve and his wife Janie participated in this breed conservation project carried in part to the Ladder Ranch in New Mexico. This fascinating story will be presented by Steve with power point photos of the horses, their capture, distribution and their subsequent recognition for their genetic and historical importance.

 Steve is a long-time member and past president of the Spanish Barb Horse Association. He was a Wildlife Biologist on the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge. He was the Manager of Ted Turner’s Ladder Ranch for 24 years. He was the Ambassador for Ted Turner Expeditions before retiring in Hillsboro, New Mexico. He is a co-author of River of Spirits, an Ecological History of Las Animas Creek.  He is the current President of the Hillsboro Historical Society, Hillsboro, New Mexico.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Hillsboro Historical Society and the Hillsboro Community Center, which is located at 316 Elenora St., Hillsboro, NM. A $5 donation at the door is suggested.