The new Kentucky Museum exhibit “The Horse in Kentucky” will operate on a fundamental thesis, asking the question:

The answer to this question is far from simple. It lies at the root of Kentucky’s identity, sprinkled throughout its history and the lives of those who have known horses best—those who rode them, raced them, owned them, showed them, worked with them, and loved them.

This exhibit will educate and enlighten visitors by exploring three unique themes related to specific aspects of the horse’s prominence in Kentucky, from its inherent strength and versatility to its immeasurable spirit.

The majority of storytelling will be done through Kentucky’s horse breeds and personal narratives of Kentuckians past and present who have worked closely with horses, highlighting the bond that forms between horse and master.

The exhibit will also feature the personal experiences of breed enthusiasts in Kentucky, both historic and contemporary. We will look through their eyes to understand what first drew them to horses, why certain breeds have become favorites, and why, once horses have captured your heart, you’ll love them for the rest of your life.