02/23/2026
A letter to the Membership of ASHDA, from breed founder Everett C. Smith.
"I would like to say to you I am so proud of my twin Grandsons on their recent induction to the ASHDA hall of fame. Believe me, they deserve any accolades that come their way. They were with me when I had but a few Percherons and no idea of doing anything but producing a few quality driving horses. They became interested very early in their lives. A few times when they were about seven years old they came to visit when I was cleaning stalls. They did not come to look for a job, but just to hang out with their grandparents. They took to the job like they were born with a pitchfork in their hands. Despite their young age they had to be told only once how to do any job on the farm. Almost immediately, it turned into a weekly occurance, I kinda put them on the payroll, and they enjoyed a little mad money every week.
They earned every weekend on the farm. Before long I was buying hay from my brother-in-law about 100 miles away. I would take two trailers, a 30 foot one and my 40 foot one with the two boys and Shirley Ann to get some well cared for Alfalfa mix hay. It would take all day and a couple hours of darkness.
I have never known 2 young men to fit in on a farm as well as Everett and Mason Pinkerman did for me. I was and will always be proud and thankful that they were along for the ride.
I don't think I could have done it without them. And for sure I would not have had the quality that I have enjoyed without them.
We had such fun sleeping in the barn while on foal watch. I have often said, "If you haven't grown up by 60, You don't have to"! With them working beside me, I didn't have to. They were my partners!"
Everett C. Smith
Photo is of Everett and Mason Pinkerman driving one of the early breed mares, Sugarbush Showtime, also known as "Essie".
Thank you to Everett for continuing to share your stories of the early days of our breed and your family's work to establish it. And congratulations again to Everett Pinkerman and Mason Pinkerman on your 2026 induction into to ASHDA Hall of Fame!
