The Bay Horses: horses, history and places to ride around San Francisco Bay

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When the Bay Ran on Horses: A Timeline, 1851 to 2024

History

Zachary Leyden

When the Bay Ran on Horses: A Timeline, 1851 to 2024

History

Zachary Leyden

From the first racetrack in the Mission in 1851 to the last race day at Golden Gate Fields in 2024: the dates that shaped horses around San Francisco Bay.

History

Zachary Leyden

History All history

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Bay Meadows, 1934 to 2008: San Mateo’s Racetrack of Firsts

From 1934 to 2008, Bay Meadows in San Mateo was a track of firsts: the enclosed starting gate, the photo finish and the first horse flown to a race.

Ingleside: The Racetrack San Francisco Still Drives Around

Ingleside Racetrack opened in 1895 and closed in 1905. Its one-mile oval is still there, as a street called Urbano Drive.

The Mounted Patrol of San Mateo County, Since 1942

A wartime riders’ patrol that the sheriff kept after the war, and the 23-acre Woodside grounds that became one of the Peninsula’s busiest horse venues.

The Fire Horses of San Francisco, 1863 to 1921

For 58 years to the day, San Francisco’s fire engines were pulled by horses. The last run was on Jessie Street on August 19, 1921.

Golden Gate Park’s Horse Years: The Speed Road, the Stadium and the Stables

A private speed road in 1890, a stadium opened three months after the 1906 earthquake, and a public stable that closed in 2001: the horse history of the Polo Field.

The Morgan Horse Ranch at Point Reyes

Since 1970 a red barn above Bear Valley has kept Morgan horses for the National Park Service. For three decades it bred them for parks across the country.

Horse Care All

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4 Trees That Are Toxic To Horses

Things You Can Do To Keep Your Horse’s Legs Healthy and Strong

Great Tips on How to Care for Your Horse This Winter

Riding All

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Benefits Of Horseback Riding

Riding Horses Offers Mental and Physical Benefits

Mastering the Art of Matching Horse and Rider: The Key to a Safe and Enjoyable Riding Experience for the Whole Family

Buying and Boarding All

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What To Consider When Choosing Where To Board Your Horse

How to Avoid Common Horse Buying Mistakes

So, You Want to Buy a Horse? Pt. 4: Bonding

Your horse most likely will not automatically fall in love with you like you likely will with it, as relationships can take time. Here are ways to help create a bond between you and your new horse.

Breeds and Behavior All

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Fun Horse Facts: Delightful Insights into the Equine World

Discover a variety of interesting and fun horse facts that will captivate your curiosity about these magnificent animals. Learn, enjoy, and share these equine wonders!

The Spooky Side of Horses: Understanding and Overcoming the Startle Response

Fall is in the air… and so is spooky season! Why do horses get spooked?

Tiny Trotters: 10 Fascinating Facts About Foals You'll Adore

Welcoming a new baby into the world is always a heartwarming event, especially when it's a four-legged bundle of joy! Let's delve into 10 fascinating facts about foals that are sure to make you fall in love with them even more!

Horses and People All

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