Shelburne, Vt. - Through a series of transactions between the American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA), American Morgan Horse Institute (AMHI), and American Morgan Horse Educational Charitable Trust (AMHECT), the AMHA will acquire and operate the National Museum of the Morgan Horse (NMMH) effective August 1, 2014.

AMHA Board President Jeff Gove stated, "We are pleased to continue the legacy of the Museum under the AMHA banner. This is a unique opportunity for 'all things Morgan' both past and present to come together." AMHA Executive Director Julie Broadway added, "The NMMH is the guardian of the Morgan's rich history and we are honored to have them become part of the AMHA family and the opportunity to work with Middlebury College in preserving that history. We see this as a strategic business move to more closely align and integrate all facets of the Morgan community under one umbrella."

Gove added, "We applaud AMHI for their stewardship of the Museum these past 30-plus years and will endeavor to build on their work. Many thanks to all the Trustees for their leadership."

The NMMH, located in Middlebury, Vermont, is dedicated to preserving and interpreting all aspects of the Morgan horse breed through educational programs, exhibits, and special events. The Museum has an exhibit space that displays quarterly rotating exhibits focusing on the history of the breed. The Museum also maintains its archives at the Middlebury College library, which is open to researchers.

No operational changes for the Museum are planned at this time, and the Museum will remain in Middlebury under the direction of Helen Herold, who will report to Broadway. The museum will continue to be funded by donations, grants, retail sales, fundraising events and interest accrued from its endowment.

AMHA is a 501 (C)(5) organization, which exists to preserve, promote, and perpetuate the Morgan horse. Founded in 1909, the association is located in Shelburne, Vermont. The Association carries out administration, promotion, and education for the benefit of its members and the breed. AMHA serves approximately 7,000 active members, 50 recognized clubs, and 20 youth clubs.

AMHECT is a 501(C)(3) tax-exempt organization, to support AMHA educational programs and services, and other charitable organizations. AMHECT operates as an organization to which donors can contribute on a tax-deductible basis, for a number of AMHECT and AMHA programs, including for the benefit of the Museum.

Questions can be directed to AMHA Executive Director, Julie Broadway, at (802) 985-4944 ext. 201, [email protected].