The first known horse show in South Central Missouri was held in Hartville in 1944. Because of its huge success, many area towns began to hold their own shows. During the 1950's, saddle clubs began to form,which then took over the horse shows from the town governments. The first few years, the horse shows were run very inconsistently from town to town. Finally, in 1958, the various town saddle clubs met to organize. The first By-Laws were approved by all member saddle clubs in February, 1959. This started the association as we know it today. Incorporation as a Not-For-Profit Organization occurred in November, 1980.
Once the different saddle clubs organized into the South Central Horse Show Association, much work was done to standardize the shows and attempt to get more people and other towns involved. Over the years, the number of member clubs has changed, with some affiliates joining or dropping for different reasons. Today the affliates are Ava , Cabool, Hartville, Mountain Grove, Fordland, Mansfield, Grovespring Lions Club, and Douglas County Fox Trotter Horse Breed Association
Over time, the number and types of classes offered on stock horse and gaited horse show nights has changed as demand and interest changed. The shows are open to all, with the Association keeping points, to award prizes at the end of the year. Starting in 2007 versatility shows have been added to the horse shows that South Central Horse Show Association offers.
The main purpose of the South Central Horse Show Association as it exists today, is to provide a place for people to show their good horses, with good clean family style entertainment for all....
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