Interview with H. T. Derickson, October 27, 2006

Interview Summary

H. T. Derickson is the owner of Van Bert Farm in Stanton, Kentucky where he raises and trains Mountain Horses, also known as Rocky Mountain Horses. Derickson, who previously trained Tennessee Walking Horses, was one of the first in to raise registered Mountain Horses. The farm has been in the family for five generations and Derickson shares family stories of growing up in Stanton, tells how the farm changed over the years, and explains why he chose to focus on the Mountain Horse. He reflects on the characteristics of the breed, its economic potential, particularly in eastern Kentucky, and talks of the challenges facing horse breeders and trainers. Also discussed are show experiences and the involvement of three generations of the family in the business.

Interview Keyword

Appalachia Gaited horse Horse breeders Horse shows Horse trainers Rocky Mountain horse Stanton (Ky.) Tennessee walking horse

Interview LC Subject

Derickson, H. T., III, 1935- --Interviews Derickson, H. T., III, 1935- Horse breeders Horse owners--Interviews Horse trainers--Interviews Horse-shows. Rocky Mountain horse Stanton (Ky.) Tennessee walking horse Van Bert Farm (Ky.)

Interview Rights

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Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections and Digital Programs, University of Kentucky Libraries.