We plan for our own retirement and increasingly for the happy retirement of our four-legged companions. If your beloved companion is a horse you can no longer care for due to your own stage in life, where can the horse go? One place is the Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines, a beautiful, 383-acre farm in the rolling hills of northern Chester County.
Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines is the oldest non-profit horse sanctuary in the United States. It got its start in the City of Philadelphia through the compassion and commitment of Ann Waln- Ryerss. Anne Waln-Ryerss was descended from a prominent Philadelphia family who constantly pursued opportunities to improve the lives of helpless animals. In 1866, Morris Waln donated $10,000 toward the establishment of the Pennsylvania SPCA. Anne followed in the footsteps of her ancestors in being an active advocate for the welfare of animals, especially horses. The Ryerss’ Burholme estate featured a pet cemetery and many portraits that the family commissioned of their beloved animal companions.
Upon her death in 1888, Anne bequeathed $30,000 to establish a hospital for “ill, aged and injured animals,” and an additional $40,000 was placed in endowment to maintain the farm. On Sept. 17, 1888, “Ryerss Infirmary for Dumb Animals,” as it was originally named, was incorporated as a charitable institution whose objective was “to provide a permanent home for old favorites whose owners, instead of destroying or selling them, desire to place them under good treatment for the remainder of their days.”
Currently, the herd can be as many as eighty equines who are free to roam the green pastures. This is a true retirement, rest and relaxation only! The youngest residents are a minimum of 20 years old and our current oldest resident is 38, advanced old age for a horse! As you can see from the photo of Sonny and Crosby, Ryerss horses may strike up a “besties” relationship and spend their time companionably.
A dedicated and amazing staff along with a crew of volunteers keeps this large herd healthy and happy. Currently volunteering to greet visitors, share information and staff the gift shop, I’m always thrilled to slip out to the barn. In the photo, Memphis, a chocolate palomino, and I pose for a photo.
The farm is open to visitors daily, 10 am to 4 pm, except for major holidays. Admission is free and treats for the horses may be purchased in the gift shop, no outside food is permitted. Keeping the horses healthy is primary.
To plan your visit, click on Ryerss Farm. If you want to make a day of your visit, St. Peter’s Village is nearby and has shops and places to get a snack or a meal. Glasslight Studio is on the St. Peter’s Road and visitors can stop in to see hand-blown glass or watch crafters at work.
Clare Novak travels far and near. She started her travel website and blogs in 2018, seeking to share the world’s beauty and delightful experiences. Ms. Novak is an international consultant in Human Resources, Gender Equality and Leadership. She has published business books and articles and speaks on those topics for international Conferences. When at home in Pennsylvania, she travels locally to discover interesting places. She is a frequent blog contributor.
Keeping life fresh, Clare has recently published Homely Hero, a children’s book she wrote and illustrated: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09TDS32QB?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860.
Penn’s Village helps older adults stay active, age in place in their own homes, and engage, connect, and thrive with others in our Village community. If you enjoy what you are reading, you can help ensure our continued viability and visibility by sharing this with others.