The Spreading Chestnut

"Spreading The Word About The Most Important Equine Professional"

YOUR CANADIAN FARRIER CONNECTION

Under a spreading chestnut-tree the village smithy stands;

These words from the poem The Village Blacksmith by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow have been heard by almost every farrier at some time or another.

The Farrier's trade has come a long way. The difference between blacksmith and farrier is being made increasingly clear, particularly in the past 20 years. This profession is both a science and an art form in one.

Some of us are well aware of the skills required to perform the Farrier's task, but for those who are still in the dark, the articles in this trade magazine should help to enlighten them.

THE SPREADING CHESTNUT is designed for farriers to keep abreast of what is occurring in their business as well as provide timely articles to be shared with their clientele. It is our aim to create a vehicle for those in the equine industry to share ideas and views and further communication within the industry.

THE SPREADING CHESTNUT strongly supports membership in farrier associations. An association helps to enrich the farrier's trade. Through direct participation in an association, the skills, techniques and expertise passed on will cultivate and enhance the caliber of competence within the farrier's profession which is a vital and critical facet in the horse's overall care.

THE SPREADING CHESTNUT is pleased to provide publication of the newsletter for the Ontario Farriers Association. If you are interested in becoming a member of the O.F.A. contact: Barry Hayter, O.F.A Treasurer, 1954 Richmond Road, R.R. #6, Smith Falls, Ontario K7A 4S7. Phone: (613) 283-2612, or direct e-mail.

About Linda J. Howes, the Editor

Growing up in a Scarborough suburb, I dreamed about owning a horse. The dream came partly true when, as a teenager, my parents signed me up for riding lessons at a nearby stable.

Although I had fleetingly seen the soles of horses feet as they passed by it was beyond my abilities to pick up a foot and get a good close look at their true soul; for horses feet, like the rings of a tree, tell much about the animal itself. Pull and tug as I might, those feet remained firmly planted, uprooting them was impossible.

One magical day a short, stocky man appeared. He had a full girth and arms to match, his truck jingling like an ice-cream man's. However, instead of running to meet this musical vehicle, almost everyone fled. Intrigued, I lingered around a comer and watched intently as Carl Gregoric went to work, picking up horses feet with ease. I boldly stepped from my hiding spot and queried him about how he did that.

He must have thought any number of things like trim the hoof, fit the shoes, nail them on?

Just to be able to pick up their feet was all I was after. After a quick lesson I was off, picking up and picking out horses feet.

After that, whenever the "blacksmith" came I hung around and took the lead (shank). I have held many horses for many hours for many farriers since. It has been an ambition of mine to create a publication for farriers for some years. The Spreading Chestnut is the realization of that ambition. I hope you find it fills a need in this ever-growing industry. Drop me a line and let me know your thoughts.

THE SPREADING CHESTNUT is published quarterly, and we welcome your manuscripts, pictures, comments and letters. (Please remember that we accept no responsibility for loss or damage of such materials while in our possession.)

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