by Karen Dudley of MWHA (first published in the March 2025 Equiery)
Since January 29, 1956, the Maryland Western Horse Association (MWHA) has remained true to to its mission to “develop rules and regulations for Western Horse Show classes in the local area.” This mission was created by MWHA’s original founders and Directors, including Albert W. Nichols, Harold Brite, Helen Spedden, Robert Spedden and Ellen Schultz. Ellen Schultz remained active with the club from its inception until her death in 2011. Her daughter Peggy Schultz continues the family tradition and is actively involved with all MWHA activities.
The club expanded this original idea into a mission statement meant to help create, stimulate and promote interest in all things horse related. This mission includes promoting horseback riding as a recreational activity in order to facilitate and encourage the training of show horses in Maryland. Over the years, several perpetual trophies have been created to recognize the importance of the horse and horse activities within the club including the Blueberry Perpetual Trophy and the Spedden/Schultz Scholarship.
The Blueberry Perpetual Trophy was created in 2008 by the Novotny family in loving memory of their versatile pony Blueberry. The award is given to the All-Around High Point Horse or Pony each year with the first award presented to Roan Me A Quartah, shown during the 2007 season by Becky, Lindsay and Nathaniel Novotny.
The Spedden/Schultz Scholarship was also created in 2008. The scholarship is presented to youth members completing high school who have shown dedication and hard work in the show ring over many seasons. Scholarship applicants must submit an essay detailing their experiences with horses, showing within MWHA, and their future plans and goals.
MWHA has continued to evolve over the past 70 years by recognizing and responding to the needs of the local horse community. Currently, the 2025 show schedule includes Western, Ranch, Speed and English classes as well as both an annual Full Slate Ranch show and a Schooling Jumper show. Divisions offered include Green Horse, Lead line, Walk/Trot and Walk/Jog/Lope in Youth, Adult, Ranch, Adult Novice, and Western as well as Speed Division. Ranch Youth Divisions have also been added for the 2025 season.
For 70 years MWHA has continuously served the horse community with volunteers who understand the importance of promoting horses and horsemanship through horse shows and training opportunities while encouraging participation and enjoyment for everyone involved. The continued support and promotion of MWHA as a club is a testament to the mission of the founding members and the goal they set to bring about, through correct handling of horses at shows, a greater appreciation of the many admirable qualities of the horse by all riders, owners and spectators.
MWHA is celebrating this Jubilee year with a potluck luncheon with a guest speaker on March 16 at the Howard County Fairgrounds. For more information or to reserve a space please email mwhaclub@gmail.com.
