SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – Three new exhibits at the Tennessee Walking Horse Museum in Lynchburg, Tenn., were opened to the public Tuesday, Dec. 9.

The exhibits feature 2003 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse The Whole Nine Yards, trainer Howard Hamilton and breeder Billy Thomas.

The area honoring The Whole Nine Yards features information on the horse and trainer Bill Bobo, several pieces of memorabilia from his show ring performance on August 30, and some of the promotional material his fans wore during the 2003 Celebration.

Howard Hamilton’s Southern Serenity Ranch of Cedar Grove, Tenn., is the featured training facility for the next year. Their display features photographs of their many championship entries all the way back to a photo of Howard winning his first blue ribbon at age 10. In addition, other items from Southern Serenity are on display, including trophies, ribbons and a quilt made entirely of ribbons won by one of their horses.

“It’s a great honor to be chosen to be featured at the museum,” said an excited Hamilton. “I’ve seen pictures of the display and can’t wait to bring my family to Lynchburg to see it in person.”

Moore County’s own Billy Thomas of Thomas Colts is the featured breeder this year. Thomas has been involved in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry for over three decades and his farm has produced many proven show ring winners.

The Thomas Colts exhibit features photographs of new foals from 2003 as well as photos of colts bred by Thomas that have gone on to success in the industry. The exhibit also features personal items donated for use in the museum by the Thomas family.

“I’m very proud to be part of such a wonderful museum right in my own hometown,” stated Thomas. “I’ve tried to help promote our breed for many years and this is just wonderful.”

In addition to the new exhibits, standing exhibits noting the history of the breed, the growth of the Celebration and many other exhibits are available to visitors, free of charge.

The Tennessee Walking Horse Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday each week and is located on the public square in historic Lynchburg, Tenn.