The Saddlebred community has lost two renowned horsemen. Both Dale Pugh and Edward C. Barham left behind significant accomplishments; their presence cannot be replaced.

Pugh, who was born on April 10, 1917, died February 11 at the Veteran’s Home in Mexico, MO. Pugh served in the United States Navy during World War II, but was mostly known for his long career as a professional horseman.

Pugh began training horses at the Callaway Hills Stable in New Bloomfield in the 60's, and had a hand in training the legendary Will Shriver, who defeated every challenger he showed against for four straight years, according to Rural Missouri Magazine. He was highly respected in the horse training community, and had a large influence on many aspiring trainers in the area.

“He was known nationally as one of the best trainers of young horses,” according to Mike Roberts, and “could take a colt and get started and take it to a horse show and be as successful as anybody else.” For the complete obituary in the Fulton Sun, visit www.fultonsun.com/articles/2008/02/20/news/315news03trainer.txt.

Additionally, with the death of Edward C. Barham on February 19, 2008, in Indianapolis, IN, another chapter in saddle horse history comes to an end. A great showman, trainer, judge, breeder, innovator and show manager, he came from a long line of noted horsemen.

Known for making and showing such champions as the great World’s Grand Champion Nellie Pidgeon, Lady Louise, Lady Babette and Sweet Lavender, the Tennessee-born Barham was associated with establishments, including Barham and Son, Leatherwood Farm, Wildwood Farm, and Gregnon Farm before opening his own Edward Barham Stables in Indiana.

Barham was not just a great horseman but also an outstanding horse show manager. While serving as a director of the horse department of the Indiana State Fair, Barham worked diligently to improve the Indiana State Fair Horse Show.

However, it was as a horse show judge that Barham may well be best remembered. With a distinctive style and superb knowledge of the rules, he suffered no fools in “his” show rings. He prided himself on his reputation as a judge who “got down to business” and for whom integrity could never be compromised. He was meticulous in every detail when presenting horses himself and expected no less from those he judged. Over a 50-year span, Barham judged every major show across the country, including the Kentucky State Fair multiple times. Barham was inducted into the Kentucky State Fair Hall of Fame in 1991, 30 years after his father’s induction, and 100 years after his grandfather, Wm. C. Barham, helped organize what would become the American Saddlebred Horse Association.

Barham is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sandra; son, Chris; and grandsons, Thomas and Nicholas Barham. Those who wish to express online condolences to the family and sign the register may do so by visiting www.flannerbuchanan.com. For Edward Barham’s obituary in full, visit www.asha.net/barhamobit.

Both families suggest that memorial gifts be sent to The American Saddlebred Museum, 4083 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY, 40511.