Devon Horse Show
Easttown Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
First held in 1896, it is the oldest and largest outdoor multibreed competition in the nation. It was declared a US Equestrian Federation Heritage Competition in 2010, the organization's highest honor. Originally a modest one-day show intended to bring in superior carriage horses for Main Line landowners, it grew into an international event lasting over a week. In 1919 the concurrent Country Fair was added to benefit Bryn Mawr Hospital.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
First held in 1896 as a modest one-day event to showcase fine carriage horses for the Main Line's landed families, the Devon Horse Show grew into the oldest and largest outdoor multibreed competition in the nation. By adding a Country Fair in 1919, it turned its prestige to charity, benefiting Bryn Mawr Hospital. In 2010 it earned the U.S. Equestrian Federation's highest honor as a Heritage Competition.
Why it matters
Devon captures the leisure world of Philadelphia's Gilded Age Main Line and the enduring American tradition of turning genteel sport into community philanthropy.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it β museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Attractions
- American Bandstand12.6 mi away
- Discovery Center at East Park Reservoir12.8 mi away
- Pennsylvania Railroad, Connecting Railway Bridge12.9 mi away
- Philadelphia Zoo13.0 mi away
- Rocky Steps13.9 mi away
- The Universal Sphere14.7 mi away
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Themes & tags
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