from the Stable of Memories, Inc.
Lexington, KY — The Barn Buggy Bash, held at the Round Barn adjacent to the Red Mile on Monday (Oct. 2) was a rousing success, bringing together horsemen, breeders, consignors, racetrack officials and Lexington supporters.
Chris Tully photo
Nearly 200 guests enjoyed the Barn Buggy Bash which helps support the Stable of Memories.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward restoration of two antique carriages, a J.B. Brewster Side Bar Wagon and Park Pheaton, as well as upkeep of the historic structure. The Round Barn is managed by the Stable of Memories, Inc., a 501c 3 group of long-time volunteers.
The evening was sponsored by Bayou Bluegrass Catering, Clark Distributing, Mary Lou Dondarski, L.V. Harkness & Co., Park Equine and Russell Capital.
Bidding was spirited on the nearly 100 items in the silent auction, which included art, apparel, memorabilia, equine supplies and equipment and more.
“We are thankful for the support we received from our sponsors and the many generous donors, as well as those who were able to attend the event,” said Kathryn Glenn McKinley, president of the board. “Our loyal board members put in countless hours putting everything together and managing the auction. It’s extremely heartening to see the support we received from beginning to end.”
Several of the Stable of Memories’ antique carriages were on display, including a recently-restored Healey Runabout, a light carriage with large wheels which was popular in the late 1800s.
Completed in 1882, the Round Barn (known as Floral Hall in its early days) not only houses some of harness racing’s greatest memorabilia, but is used for weddings, fundraisers and other social events.
The Round Barn will be open for visitors this week Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., and each day after the races until 5:30 p.m.