Have you ever spoken with Mr. Carter Brown? 

Ever watched the Steeplechase at the old Blockhouse? What about a horse show at Harmon Field? 

In 1954, I watched The U.S. Olympic Equestrian Team practice at Harmon Field.

The “equestrians” created the town of Tryon. They came with the railroad, looking for a good place to raise their horses and socialize.  

The Native Americans and the local were glad to see them, with their money to spend. But eventually, they did become friends. 

Now, in Tryon, Hunting Country is River Road: a 7-mile plus dirt and gravel road that has never been paved. The state maintains it for “the equestrians” who can come from anywhere. Come park your trailer, unload your horses and enjoy yourself for free.

Equestrians have made Tryon famous: Tryon Estates in Columbus, Tryon grapes are grown in both Saluda and Hendersonville, Links O’Tryon in Gowensville, Tryon Riding and Hunt Club in Green Creek, and now the  Tryon International Equestrian Center in Pea Ridge, outside of Columbus. 

I can remember when Pea Ridge Road was just a dirt road, and the rabbit hunting was great! Most of the land was owned by African-Americans, some of whom could trace their past back to slavery. 

People with horses and money have since bought out some of these folks in just the last 20 years. They may have been there for generations.

If you now own property on Pea Ridge Road and want to sell, soon it may be your lucky day. The equestrians are coming your way with lots of money and may want to stay — well, until the next hot spot comes along. 

But, still, don’t overplay your hand.

That’s all I have to say about that.

Joseph Hill, Lynn