Chessie

Chessie was foaled in Queen Anne County in 2004 and was originally known as “Sharpie,” a jet-black Tennessee Walker. She was gifted to the ranch by Mr. Howard Dean in 2019 and has been a cornerstone of the herd ever since.

She is one of the most loving and patient horses you’ll meet. With experience in shows, she is both talented and gentle, especially with beginners. Even as she deals with some arthritis, she stays active and enjoys her time with people—and especially with her little companion, Smokey.

Smokey

Smokey is a small Shetland Pony, foaled in 2006. He was rescued from the auction circuit and brought to the ranch in 2023, where he quickly found his place.

He is the most gentle horse in the herd. Little ones love to ride, groom, and spend time with him—and he loves it right back. Smokey often travels with us to schools and events, and even among the bigger horses, he quietly holds his own, especially with Chessie looking out for him.

Franco

Frank’s full name is Francoharrington. He was foaled in New Zealand on 11/20/2009 and spent years in racing before ending up on an Amish farm doing heavy work. The strain led to leg injuries, and after being shipped through auctions and losing significant weight, he eventually made his way to us.

Since arriving, Frank has become the herd boss. His size and presence can feel intimidating at first, but as you get to know him, you find a willing and dependable partner. Around here, Frank helps set the tone for the whole pasture.

Leo

Leo was foaled in Centreville on 5/2/2006 and is a registered Standardbred named “Family Grudges.” He began in carriage racing before being “retired” to an Amish farm. After being rescued from a slaughter auction, he found his way to the ranch and was given the name Leo—like a lion—strong and independent.

Leo is the senior gelding on the ranch. A past ligament injury limits him to easy work, but his calm and steady nature makes him a favorite. He’s especially close with Red and brings a quiet confidence to the herd.

Hope

Hope, originally named Jetset Dana, a Standardbred foaled in 2012 in Ontario, Canada. She spent years racing before moving into heavy work on Amish farms, where a significant leg injury led her into the auction pipeline. She arrived at the ranch in 2024.

Despite her injury, Hope has a gentle and patient spirit. She quickly stepped into the role of lead mare, helping guide the herd alongside Frank. More than anything, she has a way of winning the hearts of the kids who spend time with her.

Red

Red’s real name is Infrared, but that’s a bit much at full speed—which is exactly how he prefers to move. He is a Standardbred, foaled on 3/11/2010 in Trivoli, IL, and spent time in carriage racing before working on Amish farms. He was rescued from a slaughter auction in 2023 and brought to the ranch.

Red is full of personality. He’s energetic, curious, and always seems to have a funny face to share. You’ll usually find him in the pasture with Leo or Jericho, bringing a little extra life wherever he goes.

Jericho

Jericho came to us as John’s Joe from Loogootee, Illinois. He was foaled on 4/14/2015 and, as a Standardbred, was born to run. After his racing days and time in other settings, he eventually made his way to the ranch needing care and time to rebuild.

Today, Jericho is one of the most playful and curious horses in the herd. He’s full of personality and energy. While he’s not too fond of the goats or dogs, he loves spending time with Red and Shiloh—and if there’s a ball around, Jericho is usually the one playing with it.

Shiloh

Shiloh came to us with the name Ocean Front. He was foaled in Cream Ridge, New Jersey in 2005 and spent his early years racing before transitioning to life on an Amish farm in 2011. He later made his way to the ranch.

Shiloh has a calm and steady presence. He still carries some quickness from his earlier days, but he is easygoing and approachable. With a small growth on his chin that makes him look a little different, he has a quiet way of helping kids feel like they belong just as they are.

Tillie

Tillie is a fiery chestnut Quarter Horse, foaled in 1998. She spent most of her life on one farm with a small group of horses before being gifted to the ranch by a local rider in 2025.

When she first arrived, she was unsure of the change. But over time, she has settled in and found her place. Tillie is athletic and responsive, yet incredibly aware of the needs of the kids she works with, always willing to move at their pace.