Horses have been vital to Native Americans since their introduction from Europe. Even though the horse is not regarded as culturally important to Ioways, the horse has played an important role in helping the Tribe transport belongings during migrations. Due to this history and Tribal members’ interest in horses, the Tribe has initiated a Tribal horse program.

On June 28, 2007, the Tribe acquired 9 horses from a donator in Stillwater. Five of these horses are Arabians, one is a Paint/Arabian crossbreed, and one is a Paint. A few weeks later, the Tribe acquired 2 Appaloosa horses. The horses are being housed at the old dairy barn and new fences are being built to increase the amount of pasture available to them. The oval barn holds 10 stalls and other equipment for this program.

These horses came to the Tribe in poor health because of the environmental conditions they were living in. Since coming to the Tribe, the horses have gained weight and have improved socially. A Tribal member, Ken McClellan, is working to improve the horses’ habitat as well as train the horses. All of the horses are broke to ride. Experienced volunteer riders help exercise the horses about 3 times per week on 2-3 hour trail rides. The horses have been exposed to a wide variety of obstacles, noises, and anything that could cause them to spook. Most of them neck rein, and a few will perform a side pass.

The Equine Program is funded by the Tribe. It is the goal of the Tribe to have a youth education program using the horses. In this program, Tribal youth will learn horsemanship including caring for and riding the horses. Another potential program will involve families participating in the Substance Abuse Program. These families will go through a similar program as the youth program.

Currently, the Tribe is developing a short youth program. If you are interested in participating or volunteering please contact Ken McClellan at 405-334-7473 or kmcclellan@iowanation.org