The farrier and blacksmith

   
     Most folks nowadays aren't familiar with the term 'farrier.'  The word is first used around the 15th century and is ultimately derived from the Latin 'ferrus' meaning iron.  A farrier is a person who shoes horses (retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/farrier).  A farrier is also known as a horse's foot doctor.  Reid's Livery's farrier and blacksmith, also, has over 20 years of experience and although the man has put in his fair share of hours, he is still able to perform the arduous task of shoeing and nursing horses' feet.
     The overall health of a horse can be determined by the shape of his or her hooves.  A very serious and common problem with the domesticated horse is founder.  Permanent damage can result from this condition, also known as laminitis, which would be similar for a human having all their weight bearing down on their ankles with no cartilage or heels for support...very painful (retrieved from http://www.acreageequines.com/horsecare/horsecare5a.htm).
     Fortunately, the professional staff at Reid’s Livery is familiar with the early stages of founder and knows how to prevent and treat the condition.  Many horses have come to Reid's Livery in suffering and left a happy and healthy animal.  More importantly, many owners and students are educated about this condition in order to prevent the condition from ever happening.
     A man or woman wouldn't be a good farrier without, first, knowing the skill of a blacksmith.  The knowledge of metals and the ability to heat, pound, and forge them into useful tools is very important for shoeing horses.  You can also purchase homemade knifes, hoof picks, and candleholders forged from recycled horseshoes and rasps.
    

Horse Training

  
            The professionals at the livery stables have over 20 years of lifelong dedication toward their trade.  They are accustomed at dealing with a variety of breeds and styles.  Some horses pick up a few bad habits from previous owners or have problems with general handling.  Some of the challenges the trainer is accustomed to be: loading an unloading into a horse trailer; bucking and rearing, socializing with other horses, pace or speed control, and malnutrition. 

The easiest way to train a horse is from a foal.  When horses are 1-2 years of age they are considered "green" and the difficulty of "breaking" these animals depends on their attitudes.  Like humans, horses have different personalities.  The majority are either introverts or extroverts, the latter referring to a more natural and wild beast.  The general term of "breaking" a horse refers to cruel and unusual punishment.  The method of horse training at Reid's Livery is delivered through a system referred to as "join-up."  It is a more gentle and feasible means toward achieving horse training than "breaking."  This is the same style in which Native Americans cultivated after observing horses' behaviors in the wild.  It is truly amazing to see the "join-up" process happen.  Join-up is just the first stage.  You'll have your horse following you around with no rope or halter.  Advanced levels of this training style will have your horse reacting to cues, much like a performing circus animal.

    

The Winery

     The most unique feature of the wines here are their richness.  The fruits are grown right in the backyard.  There is plenty of all natural fertilizer and the rich Kentucky soil provides all the needed nutrients to make for a delicious and wholesome fruit.  Peaches, blackberries, black and red raspberries, strawberries, and elderberries are some of the naturally grown fruits that are harvested for the winery.  In 2009, eight flavors of wine were entered into the Kentucky State Fair...eight medals were won!
     There's red and white wine varieties.  The secret family recipies produce wines like: Peachy Keen, Strawberry Patch, and Boyce Choice...to name only a few.  There is, also, a cherry wine!  "Very Berry Cherry!" 

The Livery Stable

     Before planes, trains, and automobiles there was the horse and the wagon.  Livery stables were an important outlet for provisions, rest, and entertainment for the early American and their traveling companion...the horse. 
     Pioneers and cowboys could find a much needed break at a livery after traveling many miles cross-country. Locals, too, frequented these hotspots for much needed services and supplies.  Livery services in most places included farrier (horse foot-doctor), blacksmith, leather shop (saddles and bridles), stables (horse motel), and, perhaps, a wagon repairman.
     Try to put yourself in the shoes of these people.  What would you need after a long journey across the beautiful countryside?  Maybe a nice warm bath...some food, water, and shelter?  The livery stable served as a centralized hub to the early traveler.  It was as important as Atlanta International is for Delta.  All the services you need in one, centralized, stop-and-go location. 
     At Reid's Livery Winery, you can enjoy a tasting from an award winning selection of homemade wines...and you may also find what you need for your horse.  Wine may be purchased by the bottle or by the glass.  Livery stable sevices include:  tack shop, riding lessons, horse training, farrier and blacksmith, and boarding.  Some of the most committed riding students have an opportunity to compete in local and regional horseshows. 
     The warm and beautiful spring and summer seasons attract a diverse crowd.  The livery offers a unique blend of Kentucky culture and agriculture.  Art students from Western Kentucky University might be seen sketching a beautiful landscape.  High school and college foreign exchange students have been known to frequent this place to gain an appreciation of American customs and culture.  Reid's Livery Winery will make special reservations in advance for a large wine tasting or special occasion event.