Rea Swan Rocky Mountain Horse Collection, 1986-2016 | Eastern Kentucky University - Special Collections and Archives

By Neil Kasiak, Sarah Hill

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Collection Overview

Title: Rea Swan Rocky Mountain Horse Collection, 1986-2016

Predominant Dates:1986-2005

Extent: 6.15 Cubic Feet

Date Acquired: 09/13/2011. More info below under Accruals.

Subjects: Horse breeds, Rocky Mountain horse

Languages: English

Scope and Contents of the Materials

The Rea Swan Rocky Mountain Horse Collection contains a variety of newspaper clippings, correspondence, and organizational papers and publications from the Rocky Mountain Horse Association, a non-profit group that Swan and her husband, David started in 1986.The collection is not the association's complete or official papers, rather they are the material culmination of the Swans' early personal and professional efforts to establish an official registry and keep a dwindling, and treasured, equine population from the brink of elimination.

The RMHA was created in the hopes of establishing the breed characteristics and registry for an Appalachian equine breed that was descended from a sire that appeared in Kentucky in the late 1800s. Sam Tuttle of Spout Springs Kentucky (Estill County) is credited with maintaining the desired characteristics while breeding his RMH stock during the 1960-70s. The Rocky Mountain Horse was established and recognized as a distinct Appalachian equine breed because of the efforts of the Swans, the RMHA, and other like minded horse enthusiasts who fell in love with the soft tempered and versatile breed of horse;Tuttle's efforts were not forgotten. The collection includes the association's by-laws and constitutions (both were adjusted as the association grew), organizational and some personal correspondence, the early RMHA minutes and committee reports, various publications from the RMHA and other related equine groups, as well as some financials materials from the group's early years.

Collection Historical Note

The RMHA is a non-profit association that was created by Rea and David Swan in the hopes of establishing the "Rocky Mountain Horse" as a certifiable equine breed. The name Rocky Mountain Horse is a bit of a misnomer since it actually refers to a type of horse that was historically preferred, bred, and maintained in the foothills of Appalachia and Kentucky. The modern Rocky Mountain Horse descends from a stallion named Old Tobe (or Tobe), which Sam Tuttle of Spout Springs Kentucky owned and bred in the mid-20th Century. As the oral tradition goes, Old Tobe was the offspring of a sire that Tuttle's uncle had received in trade from a family that was trying to make their way back to Virginia after they went bust "out west" in the 1890s. The versatile descendants of the foundation sire had a four beat gait and it could "pull plows in the small fields, work cattle, be ridden bareback by four children...[and] they even performed well hitched to the buggy [on] Sunday morning to go to church." Tuttle continued to breed his stock for these traits and luckily, for the sake of the breed, his efforts did not go unnoticed. In 1981, Rae Swan began to understand that her future dreams included the preservation of a breed of horse that was nearly crossbred out of existence and, for the most part, forgotten by those who lived outside of eastern Kentucky.

From 1981 to 1985 Swan began reaching out to the surrounding areas' breeders and owners to confirm breed characteristics and survey the remaining "pure" Rocky Mountain Horses. After roughly 100,000 miles of car travel in Kentucky and Ohio, Swan had discovered that the breed was definitely on the brink of elimination. She was shocked and concerned by the fact that only 60 or so "pure" and less than 100 "mostly" Rocky Mountain Horses were identified. In May 1986, the Swans and approximately 37 other people (who accounted for 66 horses) organized the first Rocky Mountain Horse Association meeting. Their first task was to establish the breed characteristics, which include a size of 14.2-16 hands, an even temperament, a smooth four beat gait, and the preferred, but not exclusive, chocolate body and flaxen mane and tail. Their next, and perhaps most important, task was to create a registry that would ensure the breed would live on beyond the lives of the foundation stock that Swan had identified. As Swan and others began to stabilize and grow the breed's populations it became apparent that the Rocky Mountain Horse was "not a "new" breed but rather the continuation of an old one." By 1992, the RMHA registry grew exponentially from its original 45 registered horses to an astonishing 1,300. After nearly 10 years of painstaking effort Swan accurately concluded that "this horse, so close to being lost at one time is now on a steady and healthy road to successful growth and preservation." (2011-008-b.5-f.9)

The RSRMHC traces the early years of the organization, and to a lesser extent, the early 2000s, when the association underwent a variety of changes in size and reach. Overall, the collection can be understood best as the life's work of the Swans. The RMHA overcame many internal and external challenges during its early years; however, due to the Swans' diligence and the resulting association's reach and popularity, a breed of Appalachian horse that was once considered to be on the brink of collapse is now preserved and popular in not only the U.S. but also the international equine community.

Subject/Index Terms

Horse breeds
Rocky Mountain horse

Administrative Information

Repository: Eastern Kentucky University - Special Collections and Archives

Accruals: 2 cubic feet were added October 18, 2019.

Acquisition Source: Rea Swan

Acquisition Method: gift

Finding Aid Revision History:

New materials were accreted in 2019 and finding aid was updated January 2020.

Audio/visual materials were accreted in 2019 and finding aid was updated May 2023.

Box and Folder Listing

Browse by Series:

[Series 1: Administrative],
[Series 2: Artwork],
[Series 3: Certifications],
[Series 4: Correspondence],
[Series 5: Financials],
[Series 6: Forms],
[Series 7: Genetics],
[Series 8: International],
[Series 9: Legal Issues],
[Series 10: Lists],
[Series 11: RMHA Minutes],
[Series 12: Miscellaneous Notes],
[Series 13: Newsletters],
[Series 14: Organizational],
[Series 15: Photos],
[Series 16: Publications],
[Series 17: Research],
[Series 18: Shows],
[Series 19: Trails],
[Series 20: Oversized Materials],
[Series 21: Audio/Visual Materials],
[All]

Series 1: Administrative

The Administrative Series contains all the relevant administrative materials that were required to run the RMHA. Committee reports and other board related documents are included in the series. When possible committee reports are accompanied with relevant email and/or mailed correspondence. Materials that relate to the membership participation and the RMHA rules and guidelines that board members and committees instituted can be found in the Organizational Series.

Box 1

Barcode: 31234014048688

Folder 1: By-Laws/Rules Committee Report, 17 Apr 2004
Folder 2: Charles Kilburn Society Proposal: The Charles Kilburn Society was developed to recognize those RMHA members whose attitude, work ethic and accomplishments were fundamental to furthering the goals and aspirations of the RMHA. Society membership exemplified the ideal member model and acknowledged those members whose contributions were felt both within the association and in the public at large. The proposal is accompanied with a letter of introduction that highlights the purpose of the society.
Folder 3: Complete Print Out All Horses 3-91
Folder 4: Gait/ Headset Rocky Mountain Horse
Folder 5: Genetics Committee Report, 1997 - 1998
Folder 6: Horse Park Proposal
Folder 7: Judge Trail Program, 2006
Folder 8: Old RMH History Interviews
Folder 9: Proposal for Kentucky Horse Park Commission, 1994: The proposal contains an outline that highlights the RMHA desire to establish a headquarters at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY.
Folder 10: Registry Advisory Committee Report, n.d.: Contents include a report about the formation and proposed guidelines for the RMHA registry.
Folder 11: RMHA National Headquarters Job Description: Contains the job description for the administration of RMHA headquarters in the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY.
Folder 12: RMHA History Committee
Folder 13: Rules Committee Report, 4 Sep 2004, 14 May 2005: Contents include 2 Rules and By-Laws Committee reports to the board.
Folder 14: Show Advisory Committee Report, 18 Jan 1992
Folder 18: Show Judging Committee (3/3), 2000-01: Contents include relevant email correspondence.
Folder 15: Show Comments, 1999
Folder 16: Show Judging Committee (1/3), 2000-01
Folder 17: Show Judging Committee (2/3), 2000-01
Folder 19: Show Video - 1995 Contract etc.
Folder 20: Strategic Planning Committee Survey, 2000
Folder 21: Trails Committee (1/2), 2000-01
Folder 22: Trails Committee (2/2), 2000-01: Contents include relevant email correspondence.
Folder 23: Trails Committee, 2002

Series 2: Artwork

Contains RMHA logo drawing and sketches and other artwork that was used by the association. See oversized for additional logo artwork.

Box 1

Barcode: 31234014048688

Folder 24: Artwork

Series 3: Certifications

The Certification Series includes all the processed materials that relate to certifying Rocky Mountain Horses. Pedigree lists and Registration or Certification Transfers make up a bulk of the series, however, there are other materials that involve registration disputes.

Box 1

Barcode: 31234014048688

Folder 25: Alfred Prewitt Papers: Contains correspondence and copies of Prewitt's RMH registration certificates. Prewitt was trying to resolve issues with his breeding program. Apparently, there was some issues with his methods; something that the organization brought up and investigated.
Folder 26: Stallion Breeding Records: Contents include handwritten forms/receipts that tracked particular RMH breeding stallions. A few letters that are associated with particular breeding programs are included.
Folder 27: Certificates of Registration: Contents include both original and photocopies of RMHA Registration Certificates.
Folder 28: Certificates of Registration (copies): Contents include copies of registration certificates that were retained for records keeping purposes.

Box 2

Barcode: 31234014048654

Folder 1: Certificates of Registration, Transfers: Contains all the processed transfer certificates for horses that were sold. The transfers also include correspondence when possible.
Folder 2: Pedigree Lists, n.d.: Contents include detailed pedigrees for registered Rocky Mountain Horses.
Folder 3: Pedigree Lists, 1990

Series 4: Correspondence

The Correspondence Series covers a variety of topics and groups. The series provides an excellent snapshot of the challenges that Swan faced while getting the RMHA off the ground, as well as the methods that the association adopted to overcome such adversities. From vendors to members the series provides insight into RMHA internal functions and their relationships with public groups, as well as other equine organizations. Many of the folder titles correspond with the original folder titles that the Swans had in place before processing the collection.

Box 2

Barcode: 31234014048654

Folder 4: Administrative: Contents include the relevant (and general) administrative correspondence that was processed. Swan is the primary recipient, where as the originators include vendors, lawyers, and other equine groups (magazine editor correspondence is found in Box 2 Folder 3). The three folders that follow in the series are also administrative in nature, however, they were distinct enough to separate and arrange in separate folders (see Box 2 Folders 2-3 for remaining Administrative Correspondence).
Folder 5: Administrative, 17 Dec 2003 - 12 Jan 2004: Contains a late 2003 to early 2004 email conversation between RMHA board members. The primary topic concerns a campaign that focused on attaining an "extended contract for the operation of [the] RMHA headquarters." The conversation also details the internal negotiations that surrounded a "Grade Mare/Foundation Gelding issue," which disputed the closing of the registration books.
Folder 6: Administrative, Magazines: Includes all the related magazine editor/publisher correspondence that was processed. Topic include magazine solicitations and follow-ups, as well as copies of RMHA follow-ups on published articles and ads.
Folder 7: "Blow Up" Letters, 1991-92: The Swans and other RMHA members had a heated confrontation during a mid summer membership/board meeting in 1991. While processing the RSRMHC a folder titled "blow-up" letters was discovered, with its contents being the fall out and resulting correspondence that came from these tense moments of the dispute. The apparent disagreement was founded in accusations that the Swans were strong arming the association in ways that were in direct contrast to the association's goals and future. Contents include all the related correspondence from the incident, as well as all the other related letters that were found within the "blow-up "letters folder.
Folder 8: Breeding/Sales and Registrations/Transfers: Contents include all the related correspondence about breeding/sales, and/or registrations and transfers.
Folder 9: Breed Information (Ahrens - Goldtooth)
Folder 10: Breed Information (Harper - Nicholls)
Folder 11: Breed Information (O'Neil - Zynn)
Folder 12: Chris Samwells - Melendez Films, London, England
Folder 13: Dr. Phillip Sponenberg Conversation: Dr. Sponenberg was (unofficially) charged with determining the validity of the RMH as a rare and definable land race species of equine. The email conversation found within underscores the hotly debated topic, as well as other RMHA internal conversations about numerous subjects, such as RMH gait, dependability and genetics. Dr. Sponenberg appears in numerous other contexts within the correspondence series, all of which relate to either genetics confirmations of the breed or other genetics related topics.
Folder 14: Emails
Folder 15: Equine Museum of Japan: Contents include all the related correspondence between Swan and the organizers of the Equine Museum of Japan; the museum wanted to develop an exhibits about different and unique horse breeds from all over the world.
Folder 16: Examiner Handouts: Contains a variety of diagrams, drawings, examiner handouts and an accompanying letter from Tim [Vivian?]. The letter references Swan and the RMHA using the materials during an upcoming event; presumably, a registration session.
Folder 17: Grandview Ranch: The Grandview Ranch was owned by Frank, Sandee and Crystal Roberts of Olather, Colorado. The set of correspondence traces the ongoing professional and personal relationship the Swans (primarily Rea) maintained with the Roberts' (primarily Sandee). Interestingly, the Roberts' stationary changes from specifying that Grandview is a miniature horse ranch in June 1990, to the ranch being focused on Rocky Mountain Horses by December 1990. Based on the letters, Rea Swan and Sandee Roberts maintained a correspondence that produced a healthy comradery that helped both parties overcome challenges that they faced as members and owners of Rocky Mountain Horses.
Folder 18: Legal: The Legal Correspondence found within traces the RMHA's various disputes over copyright infringements, as well as the constitutional and by-law revisions the group made in order to align their association with the state and federal legal codes that regulate non-profit organizations.
Folder 19: Letters to Members: Contents include all of the "General Letters to Members" that were processed. The available President's Annual Report to Members are also included when possible. The letters highlight, both negative and positive, events within the organization. The letters are not necessarily newsletters, however, they do present relevant information in a newsletter type fashion. See the Newsletters Series for actual RMHA newsletters.
Folder 20: Ballot Initiative Letters to Members, 1988, 1993: Contains relevant letters to members that focus on the 1988 and 1993 board member elections. Includes ballot sheets and other election related documents.

Box 3

Barcode: 31234014048647

Folder 1: Letter to Members, 2001: Contains all the relevant correspondence about the 2001 RMHA embezzlement case. In May 2001, the RMHA discovered that their acting Treasurer had misappropriated over $100,000 in RMHA funds for personal use during the previous 15 months. The collection of letters and email conversations give a thorough overview of both the case and the resulting judgment against Davis and his wife. The Davises did not face prosecution, however, Tom voluntarily resigned his position and signed legal documents confirming that he would in fact repay all missing funds plus interest.
Folder 2: Membership: Contains all the relevant letters to RMHA board and Rea Swan. Topics include general registration questions and funds submissions, as well as other letters from membership.
Folder 3: Membership (Ahrens - Lucente)
Folder 4: Membership (Maki - Yocum)
Folder 5: Undated: Contents include all the undated correspondence that was processed.
Folder 6: Personal Letters (Cards)
Folder 7: Personal Letters
Folder 8: Personal Letters (Layton, Prewitt, Weber): Contents include letters from a file that was labeled "personal letters". The correspondence was between the Swans and Al Prewitt, Dan and Karen Weber, and Gordon Layton. Apparently, their were professional disagreements between the Swans and the other involved parties. The letters detail a cordial, but nonetheless, confrontational discussion over the future direction of the RMHA, which was in its infancy at the time the letters were written.
Folder 9: Publications
Folder 10: RMH Gait Discussion, 2001: Contents include all the email and written correspondence about a 2001 dispute over the RMHA's approach to certifying a horse, in particular evaluating their natural gait, which must be a four beat to be recognized. The conversation was spurred by Linda Bolling, of the Coon Branch Farm. Apparently, a young Bolling horse was injured and left with permanent problems which resulted from being saddled to early. With the testimony of their veterinarian, the Bollings were willing to challenge the RMHA Board's approach to testing gait and saddling young horses. The conversations that follow show a genuine concern for the potentially harmful RMHA methods for breaking and saddling their

Series 5: Financials

There were a limited number of financial materials donated with the RSRMHC. The Financials Series consists primarily of bank statements and receipts from the early years of the association's existence. Despite their limited nature, the financials content does provide insight into the organization's early solvency.

Box 3

Barcode: 31234014048647

Folder 11: 1024 Exemption Form, c.1986: Contains the tax exemption form for the RMHA.
Folder 12: Advertisement Receipts: Contains receipts for ads that were published in national magazines or other similar equine organizational publications.
Folder 13: Correspondence: Contents include all financial related correspondence that was processed.
Folder 14: Miscellaneous Receipts: Contents include all financial related materials that were processed.
Folder 15: Newspaper Receipts: Contents include all receipts from newspaper publishers for the initial Rocky Mountain Horse registry call outs.
Folder 16: Registration Receipts, 8 Oct 1986 - 3 May 1988: The Registration Receipts include all the surviving handwritten receipts that the RMHA issued for registry submission, as well as early membership receipts.
Folder 17: Republic Savings Bank, Deposits Tickets
Folder 18: Republic Savings Bank Statements, 31 May 1986 - 31 May 1988
Folder 19: Treasurers Reports, 25 Mar 1989 - 30 Nov 1990: Contents include handwritten notes and typed treasurers reports for the RMHA.

Series 6: Forms

The Forms Series contains blank organization forms for the American Horse Show Association, Hope Springs Farm and the RMHA.

Box 3

Barcode: 31234014048647

Folder 20: AHSA Learner Judge Registration: Contains a blank AHSA application for learner judge positions.
Folder 21: Bonnie Book Order Form
Folder 22: Certificates of Registration (RMHA): Contents include various version of the registration form that the RMHA issued to certify horses. A sample form that displays the preferred calligraphy style is included.
Folder 23: Consent Form for Minors
Folder 24: Equine Marketing Videos
Folder 25: Equitana
Folder 26: Hope Springs Farm: Contains a blank copy of the stallion release form that the Swans' used on Hope Springs Farm.
Folder 27: Jan Dohner Book, 1996
Folder 28: Kentucky Horse Fair Forms
Folder 29: Miscellaneous Forms
Folder 30: Model Releases RMHA

Box 4

Barcode: 31234014048639

Folder 1: Other Breed Forms/Nutrition
Folder 2: RMHA Forms: Contents include all the blank RMHA forms that were processed, including, but not limited to, embryo transfer releases and veterinary inspection forms.
Folder 3: Video Release Forms (1/2)
Folder 4: Video Release Forms (2/2)

Series 7: Genetics

Box 4

Barcode: 31234014048639

Folder 5: ASD Article
Folder 6: Certitfication of Grade Maps
Folder 7: Emails
Folder 8: Genetics Committee
Folder 9: Rocky Mountain Horse Genetics Variations, 2006
Folder 10: Swan Genetics Committee
Folder 11: Dr. Ramsey - Michigan State University

Series 8: International

Box 4

Barcode: 31234014048639

Folder 12: Horse Export - Switzerland Semen
Folder 13: Icelandic Horses
Folder 14: Meuller (Suis)
Folder 15: Quayuum - Pakistan

Series 9: Legal Issues

Box 4

Barcode: 31234014048639

Folder 16: 1999 'Lope' Petitions
Folder 17: Bryson Affair
Folder 18: Hatfield - Misty - Gold - Burtra
Folder 19: L. Peters Affair
Folder 21: Ted Hall
Folder 20: Stacie Cline vs. International Rocky Mountain Horse Association, Inc. et. al.

Series 10: Lists

A variety of lists were processed, including, but not limited to, breeder and sales, membership, and consignment lists. The Lists Series can be used to trace the early growth of the association.

Box 4

Barcode: 31234014048639

Folder 22: Breeders and Sales, 1988-89
Folder 23: Breeders and Sales, 1990-92
Folder 24: Inquiry Letter Lists, n.d.: Contents include a short list of names and addresses for people who wanted additional information about the RMHA.
Folder 25: Membership Lists, n.d.: Contains all the undated membership lists for the RMHA
Folder 26: Membership Lists, 1989-90: Contains the 1989-90 memberships list.

Box 5

Barcode: 31234014048621

Folder 1: Membership Lists, 1990-92: Contains the 1990-92 memberships list.
Folder 2: Membership List, 3-Mar-96: Contains a complete list of RMHA membership through 3 Mar 1996.
Folder 3: Miscellaneous Lists, n.d.
Folder 4: RMHA Horse Sale, Consignment List, 19-Nov-92: Contents include a brochure styled consignment list of available horse that were for sale during the 1992 RMHA Horse Show, which was held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY.
Folder 5: RMHA Horse Sale, Consignment List, 18-Sep-93: Contents include a brochure styled consignment list of available horse that were for sale during the 1993 RMHA Horse Show, which was held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY.
Folder 6: RMHA Stallion Directory, 2000: Contains a single Stallion Directory book for 2000. The directory was part of Natural Gait News issue (the NGN being the official RMHA magazine).

Series 11: RMHA Minutes

The Minutes Series contains all the handwritten and typed minutes for the various RMHA administrative meetings. The series is arranged chronologically with specific or important reports being filed separately and before the general meeting minutes for each particular year. Each folder that is labeled with only a year contains all the reports that were deemed regular minutes, whereas the special meetings and "important" minutes were separated both for convenience and to designate the original arrangement and emphasis that the Swans placed on that specific meeting.

Box 5

Barcode: 31234014048621

Folder 7: Minutes, 1987
Folder 8: Minutes, 1988
Folder 9: Minutes, "Special Meetings", 1989
Folder 10: Minutes, "General Membership", 8-Apr-89
Folder 11: Minutes, 1989
Folder 12: Minutes, 1990
Folder 13: Minutes, 1991
Folder 14: Minutes, 1992
Folder 15: Minutes, Notes, 1995-96
Folder 16: Minutes, 2000
Folder 17: Minutes, 2001

Series 12: Miscellaneous Notes

Box 5

Barcode: 31234014048621

Folder 18: Miscellaneous Notes: Contents include all the handwritten notes that were processed and considered difficult to decipher or place with other relevant series.

Series 13: Newsletters

The Newsletter Series contains RMHA, Great Northern RMH Chapter, and Windy Bluff Farms newsletters.

Box 5

Barcode: 31234014048621

Folder 19: Great Northern Rocky Mountain Horse Chapter, Dec 2000, Jan 2001, Feb 2001, Mar/Apr 2001
Folder 20: RMHA, c.1987, May 1990, Oct 1990, Jan 1991: See Correspondence, Letters to Members for additional newsletter styled reports to membership.

Box 6

Barcode: 31234014048613

Folder 1: Windy Bluff Farms, c. 1992-93

Series 14: Organizational

The Organizational Series contains all the relevant organizational documents and materials that administrators created so members could confidently operate within the RMHA. These include the governing documents, such as by-laws, the RMHA constitution (all versions), and other related handbooks and manuals. There is some variation between specific by-laws and other materials throughout; for instance, the RMH Breeders Association Inc. is distinctly different than the "National RMHA", however the NRMHA eventually became the RMHA and, from what can be gathered, the RMH Breeders Association was absorbed in the broader RMHA.

Box 6

Barcode: 31234014048613

Folder 2: Judges' Clinic, 2005
Folder 3: RMH Breeders Association Inc., Articles of Incorporation
Folder 4: Articles of Incorporation - Exhibitors and Breeders
Folder 5: Articles of Incorporation - RMHA Fund
Folder 6: By-Laws, 22 Dec 1989
Folder 7: By-Laws (1/2), n.d.: Contents include typed by-laws drafts for the "National RMHA", with some handwritten notes appearing throughout.
Folder 8: By-Laws (2/2), n.d.: Contents include typed by-laws drafts for the "National RMHA", with some handwritten notes appearing throughout.
Folder 9: By-Laws RMH Breeders Association Inc., n.d.
Folder 10: By-Laws, Amended, Jan-94
Folder 11: By-Laws (Draft), 1995
Folder 12: Bylaws Great Lakes Region RMH Club, 1998
Folder 13: Combs, Davis and Prewitt Constitution, Feb-89: In February 1989 Larry Combs, Emmett Davis Jr. and Harvey Prewitt held a private meeting and drew up constitutional solutions that were aimed at resolving the internal conflicts that the young and growing RMHA faced. The contents in Box 12, Folder 5 reflect a very tense moment in the association's early history, which is reflected by their sworn testimonies that their recommendations are in good faith and for the betterment of the organization as a whole. In addition, the group suggested that the upcoming meeting be cancelled due to the "volatile situation" it was presently facing.
Folder 14: Constitution (RMHA), n.d.
Folder 15: Copyright Permits
Folder 16: Ed - Bylaws - Original
Folder 17: Examiner's Manual, 2008
Folder 18: Kentucky Breeder's Incentive Fund
Folder 19: Director of Judging Ballots, c. 1989: Contents include the official election materials for the Director of Judging position within the RMHA.
Folder 20: Horse Identification Manual and Correspondence: Contents include the manual as well as a letter that accompanies the manual. The packet of documents was sent off to the Veterinary Practice Publishing Company to resolve any inconsistencies in evaluating Rocky Mountain Horses.
Folder 21: International RMHA Inc. Registry Handbook, 9-Jan-01
Folder 22: Judge and Judging Rules and Regulations (RMHA), n.d., c. 2003
Folder 23: RMH Histories, n.d.: Contains typed histories about the Rocky Mountain Horse breed and its ancestors and their path to Appalachia.
Folder 24: RMHA Organization Materials, 2002: Contents include all the relevant organizational materials that were provided to members after Feb 2002, including a registry handbook, articles of incorporation, etc.
Folder 25: RMHA Proposed By-Laws/Rules, 27-Sep-03
Folder 26: RMHA Rules of Registry, Draft, 14-Feb-04
Folder 27: Ockerman By-Laws/Rules Revisions, 1-Dec: Contains correspondence and by-law drafts that the law offices of Martin, Ockerman and Brabant reviewed for the RMHA in order to determine their compliance with non-profit statutes.
Folder 28: Pattern Search and Certification Mark Contact
Folder 29: Press Release, 2-Oct-86: Contains the original press release announcing the RMHA's formation.
Folder 30: Membership Applications, 1988-89: Contents include the original batch of membership registration forms for the RMHA.
Folder 31: Questionnaire, c.1987: Contains the original questionnaire that Swan had members complete so the associations direction and goals could be established.
Folder 32: Questionaire Responses C. 1994
Folder 33: Rules of Registry, 2011
Folder 34: Trademark Rocky Mountain Horse

Series 15: Photos

The Photos Series is very limited, containing just a handful of Rocky Mountain Horse registration photos that were submitted by owners.

Box 6

Barcode: 31234014048613

Folder 35: Photographs

Series 16: Publications

Upon donation, the RSRMHC contained a variety of equine publications from both the RMHA and other related groups. Individual articles about Rocky Mountain Horses written by different authors, and numerous other farm and horse related publications are included in the Publications Series. In particular, the RMHA published the Natural Gait News for a number of years; these RMHA issues can be used to trace the growth and interests of the organization through time. See the Oversized Series for additional Natural Gait News editions and other related magazine publications and newspaper clippings.

Box 7

Barcode: 31234014048605

Folder 1: 4 Beat Magazine, Spring 1993
Folder 2: Advertisements for Vintage Riding Suit Patterns
Folder 3: Advertisements, RMH
Folder 4: American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, Jul - Aug 2002, Sep - Oct 2002, Jan - Feb 1994, Nov - Dec 1997, May - Jun: Contents include various ALBC publications.
Folder 5: AMBC (ALBC) and other Miscellaneous, c.1987: While processing the RSRMHC, a file labeled "1987 Meeting" was found. The file contained an assortment of farm and livestock publications and pamphlets that the Swans' presumably used as reference while organizing the RMHA; and determining their best approach to having their Rocky Mountain Horses recognized as a distinct breed.
Folder 6: Awards/ Show Programs
Folder 7: Brochures
Folder 8: Cheval Magazine
Folder 9: Conquistador, Jul 1990, May 1991, n.d.: Rea Swan began corresponding with The Conquistador magazine publishers in early 1990. Due to the closely related nature of the Spanish Pasos Finos and Rocky Mountain Horses the match seemed appropriate. The magazine editors solicited the Swans and the RMHA for support during their unveiling of the publication. Contents include a small selection of magazines and correspondence that demonstrates how the two groups worked closely to promote their respective goals.
Folder 10: "David's Story on Rocky Mountain Horses": Contents include an untitled typed short story that was found in the Swans' papers; folder was title, but undated.
Folder 11: Farmweek, Apr 1994
Folder 12: First Rocky Mountain Horse Brochure: Contents include all the draft and final publication prototypes for the first RMH brochure that advertised the RMHA. There is correspondence and various print drafts that highlight the process by which the brochure was created.
Folder 13: Gait Way, Oct 1993
Folder 14: Horse Shows: Contents include various brochures, programs and pamphlets for RMHA Shows.
Folder 15: Magazine Article Clipping, Mountain Pleasure Horses and Saddlebreds: Contents include various magazine article clippings from national, as well as a few smaller regional magazine publishers.
Folder 16: Magazine Articles, Rocky Mountain Horses: Contents include various magazine article clippings from national, as well as a few smaller regional magazine publishers.
Folder 17: Miscellaneous Clipping: Contains miscellaneous newspaper articles and clippings about horses, farm life and livestock.
Folder 18: Miscellaneous Publications

Box 8

Barcode: 31234014048555

Folder 1: Miscellaneous Ranches and Horse Associations
Folder 2: "My Rocky Mountain Horse": Contents include a few typed manuscripts that Rea Swan wrote for later magazine publications. Some handwritten editing notes are present, as well as a few other related biographical pieces about the Swans and Sam Tuttle, the primary breeder of Rocky Mountain Horses in the 1960-70s.
Folder 3: Natural Gait News, Nov 1992 - Oct 1993
Folder 4: Natural Gait News, Nov 1993 - Jun 1994
Folder 5: Natural Gait News, Jun - Aug 2000
Folder 6: Natural Gait News, Sep - Nov 2000
Folder 7: Natural Gait News, Jan - Mar 2001
Folder 8: Natural Gait News, Apr - May, Jul 2001
Folder 9: Natural Gait News, The Horse Connection, The Rocky Mountain Horse, Mountain Connection, Sep 2001; Dec 1988; Vol I Issue 1-2; Summer 2001

Box 9

Barcode: 31234014048563

Folder 1: "The Rocky Mountain Horse", 2009, 2014-16
Folder 2: The Rocky Times, Vol. I Number 1; Vol. I Issue 1 - Vol. V Issue 1: Contains 6 issues of The Rocky Times: The Official Newsletter of the Rocky Mountain Horse Association
Folder 3: The Rocky Times Vol. VII - IX
Folder 4: The Rocky Times, 2008
Folder 5: The Western Horse
Folder 6: Sam Tuttle Articles: Contents include a variety of newspaper and magazine articles about Sam Tuttle.

Series 17: Research

The contents of the Research Series includes all the relevant research reports, paper and contracts that the RMHA used to justify their preservation efforts and registration criteria. Items include DNA and blood typing contracts and guidelines, as well as a eye genetics findings report and a student research essay on Rocky Mountain Horses.

Box 9

Barcode: 31234014048563

Folder 7: University of Kentucky Blood typing Contract, 2 Nov 1988, 21 Mar 1991, 1999: Contains the blood typing contracts that the RMHA maintained with the University of Kentucky to test their prospective registries, as well as a blank collection form that was utilized circa 1999.
Folder 8: DNA Testing Contract, UK (10 Sep 1992)
Folder 9: MSU Genetic Eye Research Findings (22 Nov 1997)
Folder 10: RMH Student Report

Series 18: Shows

Box 9

Barcode: 31234014048563

Folder 11: American Horse Shows Association Membership Application, 1992
Folder 12: Judging (RMHA) Guidelines, n.d.
Folder 13: Unknown Judging Ballots
Folder 14: Miscellaneous Show Materials, 1987-88: Contents include miscellaneous horse show information materials for non-RMHA shows
Folder 15: Miscellaneous Show Materials, 1989: Contents include miscellaneous horse show information materials for non-RMHA shows
Folder 16: Miscellaneous Show Materials, 1996-97: Contents include miscellaneous horse show information materials for non-RMHA shows
Folder 17: RMH Show; RMHA International Show Results, 1990; 1992: Contains 1990 RMH show brochure, and the results from the 1992 RMHA International Show, which was held in
Folder 18: RMHA Show Rules, 2002
Folder 19: RMHA Show and Trail Schedule, n.d., 1988
Folder 20: Rocky Mountain Horse Futurity Show Video Materials, 1994-95: Contains release forms and other materials that relate to the production of a RMH futurity video that was shot in 1994 and sent to making members in 1995.
Folder 21: Show Video Request Info, 1991
Folder 22: Whip Use; miscellaneous: Contents include a detailed packet of proper whip use guidelines and rules for RMH shows; other show related materials that were otherwise difficult to arrange are also included.

Series 19: Trails

The Trails Series contains all the relevant materials that pertain to either Rocky Mountain Horse Trail Rides/Contests or other related equine trail rides; including trail ride reports and results, trail ride rules handbooks, etc.

Box 9

Barcode: 31234014048563

Folder 23: Miscellaneous Trail Ride Materials, 1989-90
Folder 24: Rocky Mountain Rated Trail Program, 2008: The RMRTP was designed to underscore the skills and characteristics of the RMH while working through natural trail settings. The Program was used to draw attention and confirm the versatile and hardworking nature of all Rocky Mountain Horses.

Series 20: Oversized Materials

The Oversized Materials Series contains a variety of materials that are too large to fit into letter size boxes. These include newspapers, oversized editions of the Natural Gait News, and other related equine materials.

Box 10: Oversized Materials

Barcode: 31234013924251

Folder 1: RMHA Logo Artwork
Folder 2: Newspaper Clippings

Box 11: Oversized Materials

Barcode: 31234013924269

Folder 1: Equine News; Natural Gait News, Vol. XII Number 3; Jan 1993 - Aug 1994
Folder 2: Natural Gait News, Sep 1994 - Oct 1996
Folder 3: Natural Gait News Sep 1994 - Oct 1996, Nov 1996 - Holiday 1998
Folder 4: Natural Gait News; Mountain Times, Winter 1999 - Winter 2000; Jul 2001

Series 21: Audio/Visual Materials

Box 12

UnitID: 31234013925662

Item 1: RMHA Board Meeting, 5/12/2003: Tape 3 only.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 2: RMHA Board Meeting, 2/16/2005: By conference call.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 3: RMHA Board Meeting, 3/12/2005: 3 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 4: RMHA Board Meeting, 4/12/2005: Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 5: RMHA Board Meeting, 5/14/2005: 5 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 6: RMHA Board Meeting, 7/9/2005: 4 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 7: RMHA Board Meeting, 11/12/2005: 4 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 8: RMHA Board Meeting, 3/11/2006: 5 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 9: RMHA Board Meeting, 5/12/2006: 3 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 10: RMHA Board Meeting, 7/15/2006: 4 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 11: RMHA Board Meeting, 8/19/2006: 2 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 12: RMHA Board Meeting, 4/6/2012: Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 13: RMHA Board Meeting, 8/18/2012: Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 14: RMHA Board Meeting, 10/13/2012: Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 15: RMHA Board Meeting, 2/23/2013: 2 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 16: RMHA: Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 17: RMHA Membership Meeting: Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 18: Rules Committee ? Meeting: Physical Description: audio cassette
Item 19: No Title: 3 tapes.; Physical Description: audio cassette

Box 13

UnitID: 31234013925670

Item 1: No Title: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 2: Kentucky Horse Park Show: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 3: Perdu's Candy: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 4: Drill Team Equitania - Chili Danzor: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 5: Horse Park Horse Show: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 6: RMHA International Show - Trail Class, 1997: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 7: Vacatator L - Hope Foxs Roxy, 1997: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 8: Sam Tuttle Award, 1997: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 9: Charlie, 1999: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 10: Silver's Bell, 1999: Greencrest Arron Kieths gelding.; Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 11: Silvers Bell - Mocha Munch, 1999: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 12: Browns Mares and Foals, 2000: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 13: Good Wendy Tape, 2000: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 14: Snow Trail Ride Day 1, 2000: Rea, Ensy, Laura Costume Class.; Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 15: Kentucky Horse Park Trail and Show, 2000: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 16: Remington Colt Gaits, 2000: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 17: Fillies Sent to Rita Burger, 2000: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 18: Illegible: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 19: No Title: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 20: No Title: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 21: Show Alex Hall, 1997: Physical Description: S VHS C

Box 14

UnitID: 31234013925688

Item 1: McGee (Remainder of Title Illegible): Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 2: Olds Foals, 2008: Wendy, Bigning, Parker.; Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 3: Hope Springs Farm Mares and Foals, 1995: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 4: Colt at Bobbie's, 2000: Kandi x Remington; Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 5: David Ransey Slides and Diagrams: 3 horses, Leo Barnes.; Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 6: David Ramsey Slides: Tape 1.; Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 7: Horse Show: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 8: Hope Springs Farm, 1995: Rainey, Classie, King, 1995 weanlings.; Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 9: Mares, Colts, Foals, 1994: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 10: Horse Fair - John Lyons, 1993: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 11: Cat Napper: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 12: Frank Clemons Horses for Sale, 2005: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 13: Frank Clemons Horses for Sale: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 14: Horses, 1997: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 15: Show Nuncio Trail Class, 1997: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 16: Tussel & Classie Sales Video: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 17: International RMHA Show Trail ? Bench Class, 1999: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 18: Mares, Foals, 1996: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 19: Hope Springs Horses, 1996: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 20: Dark Mare and Foal Riding: Physical Description: S VHS C
Item 21: McGure Gelal. in Corn Field: Mandy Sue, Keith's mare, Leadie's Girl.; Physical Description: S VHS C

Box 15

UnitID: 31234013925696

Item 1: RMHA Show, Classes 1-7, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 2: RMHA Show, Classes 8-14, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 3: RMHA Show, Classes 14-16, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 4: RMHA Show, Classes 17-20, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 5: RMHA Show, Classes 20-25, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 6: RMHA Show, Classes 39-43, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 7: RMHA Show, Classes 66-72, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 8: RMHA Show, Classes 73-78, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 9: RMHA Show, Classes 84-89, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 10: RMHA Show, Classes 96-100, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 11: RMHA Show, ? Class, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 12: RMHA Show, End Thursday- Saturday, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 13: RMHA Show, Friday AM, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 14: RMHA Show, Driving Class, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 15: RMHA Show, Friday AM Laura, ? and Equitation, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 16: RMHA Show, Poll Backs & Trail Obstacles, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 17: RMHA Show, Championships, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 18: RMHA Show, 6-9 YO Stallions, Trail Obstacle, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 19: RMHA Show, Trail Obstacle, 2002: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 20: RMHA Show, 2002: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 21: RMHA Show & Spirit Bridle, 2002: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 22: RMHA Show, Saturday PM, 2002: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 23: RMHA Show, Thursday PM, 2002: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 24: RMHA Show, 2002: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 25: RMHA Show, Saturday Kids & Karts, 2004: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 26: RMHA Show, Frieda ?, Kilburn ?, 2004: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 27: RMHA Show, "Horse in Question" Brow's Horse, 2004: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 28: RMHA Show, Class 53, 2004: Physical Description: DVD
Item 29: RMHA Show, Tape 1, 2005: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 30: RMHA Show, Tuesday, Wednesday, 1/2 Thursday, 2005: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 31: RMHA Show End, 2005: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 32: RMHA Show, Tape 1, 2006: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 33: RMHA Show, Tape 2, 2006: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 34: RMHA Show, Tape 4, 2006: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 35: RMHA Show, Tape 6, 2006: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 36: RMHA Show, Tape 7, 2006: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 37: RMHA Show, Championships, 2006: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 38: RMHA Show, ? Tape, 2006: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 39: RMHA Show Excerpts, 2007: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 40: RMHA Show, Tape 2, 2008: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 41: Judged Trail Ride, 2008: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 42: RMHA Show, 2009: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 43: RMHA Show, 2009: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 44: RMHA Show, Tape 1, 2012: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 45: RMHA Show, Tape 2, 2012: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 46: RMHA Show, Tape 3, 2012: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 47: RMHA Show, Tape 4, 2012: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 48: RMHA Show, Tape 1, 2013: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 49: RMHA Show, Tape 2, 2013: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 50: RMHA Show, Tape 3, 2013: Physical Description: Mini DV

Box 16

UnitID: 31234013925704

Item 1: No Title: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 2: No Title: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 3: No Title: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 4: No Title: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 5: Donnatello, 1997: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 6: Gait Tape, 2007: 3 tapes.; Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 7: Gait Tape Sampler Master, 2004: 3 horses for sale.; Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 8: 2 Geldings: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 9: Gait Tape 3, 2007: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 10: Drifter, 10-Mar: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 11: Kendall On the Farm, 2000: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 12: Gait Tape 1, 2003: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 13: RMHA Christmas Party, 2000: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 14: First Edit, ? Speech: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 15: Ramsey Lecture, 2002: 4 tapes, 2 copies of tape 2.; Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 16: Charley Tape, Christmas, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 17: Henson's Eclipse: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 18: J. Brown, Satn 30: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 19: Show Gaits, Clomo Shaq, Sun D Filly, Blue: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 20: Solo, 10-Aug: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 21: Belen 03 Filly, 97 Show Dig: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 22: True Gold: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 23: Black Mare: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 24: Lick N-A Promise Arrow, 2004: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 25: ASCD: 8 tapes.; Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 26: TBI - PTSD: 2 tapes; Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 27: Tape 2 Aides - Heartfull: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 28: Slido Last ASDC: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 29: ASSOC III PTSD: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 30: Update on ASD: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 31: Kodai or Kodi: 6 tapes, #1 is missing.; Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 32: Sarah Lesson, 2006: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 33: Audio Only - Joe B. Hall Interview, 2013: 1 Mini DV tape and 3 DVD of the same interview.; Physical Description: Mini DV, DVD
Item 34: Dad's Inovve of India: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 35: Granny ? Under Saddle, 2001: Physical Description: Mini DV
Item 36: No Title: Physical Description: Mini DV

Box 17

UnitID: 31234013925712

Item 1: Hope Springs Horses, 1994: 2 tapes.; Physical Description: VHS
Item 2: Hope Springs Farm, 1997: Physical Description: VHS
Item 3: The Rocky Mountain Horse: Physical Description: VHS
Item 4: The Rocky Mountain Horse: Physical Description: VHS
Item 5: Whiskey River, Cocoa, Desert Storm: Physical Description: VHS
Item 6: Sugar & Candy, 1996: Physical Description: VHS
Item 7: RMHA Promotional Tape, 1989: Physical Description: VHS
Item 8: Nuncio's Special Edition Eddy: Physical Description: VHS
Item 9: First RMHA Show, 1989: Kentucky Horse Park.; Physical Description: VHS

Box 18

UnitID: 31234013925720

Item 1: RMHA Show, 1994: 6 tapes total, 2 copies of each.; Physical Description: VHS
Item 2: Demo and Hope Spring Farm June, 1989-1997: Physical Description: VHS
Item 3: Florida Horse Festival Demo: Includes a note signed by Bobbie and Larry.; Physical Description: VHS
Item 4: Sam's Gait: Includes a note signed by Sandee.; Physical Description: VHS
Item 5: Smith Horses, 1993: Physical Description: VHS
Item 6: International RMHA Show, 1992: Physical Description: VHS
Item 7: RMHA Judging Video, 1999: Physical Description: VHS
Item 8: Illegible, 1997: Physical Description: VHS
Item 9: Hope Springs Farm: Physical Description: VHS
Item 10: All For The Horse with John Forsythe: Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation.; Physical Description: VHS
Item 11: Misty's Baby, 1996: Physical Description: VHS
Item 12: Dusty and the Great Rocky Mountain Horse Ski Trip, 1995: Also includes Equine Affaire and Hoosier Horse Fair.; Physical Description: VHS
Item 13: Tequila Sunrise, Ventures Champion, Smith Dolly, Nuncio's Flaxen Mountain: Physical Description: VHS
Item 14: Grandview's Candy Man when Young: Physical Description: VHS
Item 15: The Rocky Mountain Horse: Physical Description: VHS
Item 16: No Title: Physical Description: VHS
Item 17: No Title: Physical Description: VHS
Item 18: David Ramsey Lecture, 1997: Camera 1 & 2 tapes.; Physical Description: VHS
Item 19: RMHA Show and Fillies, 1993-1994: Fillies are Shy Lady Venture and Chocolate Mystique.; Physical Description: VHS
Item 20: Hope Springs Horses, 1996: Physical Description: VHS
Item 21: RMHA Show, Class 53, 2004: Physical Description: VHS