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We've had lots of calls for small square bales of good quality mixed grass hay. We have also started buying in quantity from a private mill. The feed is very good, higher quality than most available through the co-op or private feed stores, and the price is very good. See our feed page for pricing.

Want to stay current on things that are happening around the farm and in the horse world, visit our MYSPACE page at www.myspace.com/hiddencreekfarm Weekly updates, questions answered, and blogs.

SAVING YOU MONEY! The ccustomer service involved in providing guarantees is real. It means a lot of talking with clients, coaching and supporting new owners, if the horse needs to be vetted, I have to be available for the vet check and have a rider ready. Sometimes I don't get a lot of notice and I have to re-arrange my schedule the last minute. If a horse comes back, I have to spend more time, first with the client to find them a new horse, and then with the horse to get it back to where it should be...it all takes time, it all costs money because time I'm spending with customer service, I'm not taking care of something else. So, for those who want to pay less, we simply eliminate the guarantees...it doesn't mean the horse CAN'T be guaranteed, in fact, for $400 we will add a guarantee to any horse selling "As Is" It simply means we are trying to find ways to get you a good horse and save you some money in a tight economy.

For those of you who want to understand about coggins tests (EIA or Swamp fever ~ our horses are always sold with current coggins tests) take a look at this article by well known horseman, Don Blazer. I think you will find it very interesting and it confirms what many of us have been saying for years. http://www.donblazer.com/ahorseofcourse/1000ahorse.html

If you love horses and have an interest in helping at-risk children in your community, take a look at Equine-Experience. We've run the pilot program here for a number of years and have now joined with others to form this nationwide organization. Take a look at it, help us by sending the information to all of your friends ~ We are seeking instructors, and we are the ONLY certification program that will help you build a successful business model that fits your needs, interests, facility and community and will then help you launch a successful business.

Appointments may be made any time during farm hours,

10am - 6pm

Phone calls from 7:30 am -11:00pm.

For directions

Organic Horse Compost

Bulk or Bagged

VISA/MC

We can now accept VISA/MC for any purchase, from horse purchases to training bills. You can also purchase a video of any horse we have by simply ordering it online. If you have any special request of what you would like to see on the video, please email us.

139 Ways to Make Money in the Horse Industry

Whether you have a horse, or not, have property or not, live in the city or country ~ there is opportunity for you in the horse industry. This award-winning book and evaluation of what you need for each idea. Includes bonus material. Join the $39 Billion a year horse industry, which employs over 1.4 million people and is growing rapidly.

Click Here to read more

If you are new to horses, please download our FREE REPORTS on buying a horse, especially your first horse, Gaited Trail Horses and more.

Take a look at our unique "Nature's Way Bit" an all-natural way to ride your horse. Click here

SUMMER CAMPS ARE OVER!! We love to see them come, and Tammy loves working with the kids (I have to cook and it is the only time all year I do!) but we are all exhausted after they are over. We are now back on regular schedule, which means we are open to show horses by appointment, any day of the week at a time that is convenient to you. We open at 10 am and are giving lessons and showing horses!

Just got in a nice load of quiet trail horses for any level rider, these are some REALLY nice horses, take a look at them

Cheap Horse - they ARE out there ~ click here

We are starting our mid summer sale...it will run from now until Labor Day. Enjoy the savings.

Hidden Creek is located conveniently north of Charlottesville, 15 minutes from town, about an hour south of Gainesville, and only 5 minutes off Hwy 29. We have lived on this property for 23 years and raised a family. We have been selling horses and running camps now for the past decade and are happy to be able to say we enjoy a good reputation and a lot of repeat business.

WHAT WE DO HERE

I used to have an old horse trainer who said you had to ride 100 horses before you could be a horseman. We ride, evaluate, train and work with over 100 horses a year! We aren't "dealers" who just run them through, we don't SELL 100 horses a year, we sell about HALF that number! We carefully select our horses, buying from sources we know and respect. THOSE horsemen have evaluated the horses and recommended them to us for you, our customers. WE ride and evaluate them, sending back anything we don't like and keeping the best to match to riders. There is no ONE BEST HORSE, but there is a best FIT for a particular rider. Unlike most sale barns, we don't just sell what we find. We work hard to FIND what we want to SELL!!

Our horses are selected to serve the following markets

First time horse owners
Safe Children's horses
People who want guest or husband horses.
"Recycled Riders," those coming back into horses later in life.
Adult riders who have ridden hotter horses and now want something safe and relaxing.
4-H and pony club ~ (We've sold a lot of winners!)
Lesson horses
Very successful local show horses.

We specialize in good, sound trail and show horses for recreational riders. We want all of our horses to move in the bridle well and frame up properly, to be sound and honest in both mind and body, and to fit well with their owners. We specialize in fitting the horse to the rider. We pride ourselves in honestly representing our horses and answering questions and we enjoy a good reputation. (See testimonials below.)

If you buy a trail horse from us, it will be something you can be proud to ride in any kind of company.

If you buy a show horse, it will be honest and have good basics.

We've tried to make our website informative, educational, and provide those who visit it with all the information they need. Please feel free to go "window shopping."

Surgeon General’s Warning: Horses have been found to be expensive and addictive and have further been shown to impair the use of common sense in humans.

Hello: I just wanted to let you know that Page is settling in nicely in her new home. Danny was the first of the three geldings to meet her (as shown in the attached pic). We took Page for a short ride yesterday and the geldings went crazy. Page was as calm as could be and ignored their frantic whinnies and mad dashes across the pasture. She is a sweetheart. We couldn't be happier. Thank you so much!!! Janelle

"After stumbling onto your website, I couldn't resist contacting you. I am very impressed with the openness, honesty and depth of knowledge displayed on your site. I agree completely with everything I've read, including the first time buyers guide, how horses are priced, and the importance of fitting horse and rider after seeing them perform."

"Always saddle your own horse." This quote is from Connie Reeves, who was voted into the cowgirl Hall of Fame with Sandra Day O'Conner. She was 101 at the time and rode her horse everyday. She was the first female graduate of the University of Texas Law School and has taught over 35,000 young girls to ride horses. I think this wonderful woman meant it to be a life lesson, one of many we learn from horses.

Many of us come home from work feeling like a human pinata ~ beaten but not quite broken ~ slip on our boots and head for the barn where we bury our heads in our horses and take in their aroma. Sharing time with a horse elevates senses, expands awareness and amplifies this thing called life." From the Introduction to...Chicken Soup for the Horse Lover's Soul

"The outside of a horse is good for the inside of man." Winston Churchill

Contact information:

(434) 985-4309

Cell (434)996-3043/ (434) 996-6993

30 Marshall Rd, Ruckersville, VA 22968

hiddencreekva@yahoo.com

Members of

AQHA

The American Paint Association

The American Trail Horse Society

Equine Experience (equineexperience.org)

I am very proud of the numerous compliments we get on the website, the information for new buyers and of course from our many satisfied clients.

We are also proud that many of our customers have been referred to us by previous buyers who are happy with their horses! We don't think there is any better advertising than a good reputation!

Hey girls, just wanted to express my thanks again for your time, your honesty, and my wonderful horse. I bought Jesse's Tuffy, 5 yr. old QH gelding, a few months ago and he is wonderful. After a 4 hour trailer ride home, I hopped on his back and rode with just a halter around the yard. He was perfect. I ride him every weekend on trails with friends, and some during the week on my own. He really trusts people and is so giving. He will go anywhere I ask him and he is not spooky at all. I have crossed raging creeks, concrete bridges within feet of tractor trailers, up and down steep trails, parking lots, within feet of other horses in their pastures....I could go on and on. Bottom line, he is solid and dependable and is everything I could've ever hoped for and worth every cent. Everyone that has seen him has loved him and wanted to know where I got him-I tell them proudly. Within an hour of being unloaded his first day on the farm, a man offered to buy him from me. I laughed. Not even for 5 times what I paid, I thought to myself. Anyway, keep up the good work!

P.S. I will send you guys some pictures soon. Heather, NC

Bailey is doing great. He has adjusted well and seems to enjoy living with us. Johnny loves riding him. He is a keeper!! Thank you for providing us with two wonderful horses; Rob and Bailey. Sandra Kirkland, Powhatan, VA

Kandi & Tammy,

I thought you all would like to know how Sugar has been doing. The vet came out and checked him over, said he sounded good and gave him all of his shots and said he was in good health. His cold cleared up great. He is a wonderful horse just like you all said that he was, very gentle sweet natured. I am so glad that I bought him, he has been worth every penny and more. I love riding him and he makes me feel comfortable and able to trust him. He stops on a dime every time and will not move until he's asked. He's just great!! When he's out in the pasture and sees me he comes up to the gate to greet me (Feeding time or not) He loves standing to be groomed and will almost fall to sleep.We really are the perfect fit for each other. I know that I haven't had him very long but I love that horse. I know when I first came to your farm I was there to see another horse and I am glad that you all showed me Sugar. Thank you guys so much I am starting to enjoy riding again.

Warmest Regards

AnnMarie Shelton I am going to send you all some pics of him soon.

I just love him (Eddie) I'll send a pic very soon you can post as well.Gotta go,Eddie is waiting,we are going riding and camping.... He's my new man, my hubby will have to step aside...HaHa Rose McDonald, Stonewall Trading Post, Clear Brook, VA

(Fantastic) We are totally in love with this horse, he is the best, better yet, he is just...........FANTASTIC! jam

I wanted to give a testimony about you and your farm. I purchased a 4 yr. old gelding named JMK Isn't He Yella (Jay but we call him Jesse) On December 31, 2005. I took him to a boarding barn on January 5, 2006. Before I had a chance to ride him, he injured is front leg on a board fence in a really freak accident on January 7, 2006. He was not badly hurt but required daily wound care and stall confinement and rest. This has been a long process and I was really apprehensive about getting back in the saddle with him again. I got the vet ok and rode him for the first time (since the day I purchased him) on February 5, 2006. Let me tell you he was wonderful. He rode just as great as the day me and my nine year old son rode him before purchasing him. When you told me what kind of a horse he was, you were completely honest. I wouldn't hesitate from buying another horse from you at anytime. I will recommend you to people who are looking for dependable - honest people to buy a great horse from. I can't thank you enough. This has been an adventure. It could have been a nightmare if he wasn't such a good level headed horse. I can't thank you enough. We love him. I will keep you posted on his progress. I am sending his paperwork off to have him double registered with the Palomino Breeders Association. Just keep doing what you are doing. You all are Wonderful!

Many Thanks,

Wanda and Christopher Branson, Jr.

Here I am again .... complimenting you on your phenomenal website! Part of any animal ownership which involves selling or placing one's animals must include EDUCATION! You have done a terrific job of covering everything. Thanks, Anne Evans

Vicki seemed like a very nice girl. Her emotion of seeing "Walker" leave almost brought me to tears as well but at the same time, I figured if she was that upset about seeing him go, then he certainly must be worth having.
Yes, Courtney will be showing him this season. She rides english pleasure/equitation and hopes to begin jumping in the future.
Last year she was riding an Appaloosa who was very strong in his mindset. They taught each other as the year went on and although she started the season alittle rough on him, she finished fairly well.
Already her progress with Walker has been notable and we all have high hopes for both Courtney and Walker this upcoming show season.

I was looking on your website (In fact I have been for over a year =]) and really like lots of your horses! Your first horse document was a huge help to me too! Thanks a ton for all the information!

Kandi, I could not be more pleased with him. He's truly an exceptional 4 year old and I DO hope that he stays pony sized, or jumps up to over 15h (no 14.3)... lol. I realize that he could still grow, so I'll take it in stride. He's acclimated well and is even making friends now! It seems that he will suit us, in many different avenues over the years... He is a HIT with the kids, and I admit, me too.

At any rate, I will place a link and highly recommend you and your horses! I have never viewed a horse and took him home on the same day, and I would have NO problem doing it again as he is everything you said he was. Kimberly, who purchased Smokey

Hi! I ran across your website while doing some research on buying a horse, and I have to say: WOW! The amount of information offered on your website is stupendous; truly you are to be commended for putting all of this together. Your page is unique in that it offers (free!) advice that is sorely needed by those of us new to the world of horses. By being upfront and direct, you anticipate the questions a buyer may not even know he should ask, as well as showing that you are concerned that a buyer be comfortable about the process.

As with anything, those of us who are less in-the-know about horses can feel intimidated by those who are more-in-the-know. As you pointed out, there are lots of reputable sellers out there, however, not all of them are willing to be patient with a buyer, or are interested in educating them. The information on your page shows consideration for the buyer by making him/her as informed as possible about what is important in the process. I have already bookmarked your webpage, so that it can be the first one I return to when I am ready to look for a horse in earnest.

Sincerely,

Michael

Thank you for contacting me. Your website is very well done and hurray for your philosophy!!!!

I am the DC of our local pony club and I just can't tell you how many stories I hear of parents buying an off the track TB for their children who are learning to ride..... often these parents don't know anything and someone gets hurt. It's so sad, I have one family I know from a local barn that the mom just got out of shock trauma!

I had a mare this spring that I said would clean up on the 4-H circuit. The Mercer family took me at my word, their daughter wanted to start to show. She won 2 - 1st place awards, a second and a third at her first show, but they are happy to report that she has improved since that time, by now she has a number of championships, res. champion, and even a day high point to her credit!!! We couldn't be happier, they couldn't be happier, and what a way to start a show career.

To the folks at Hidden Creek Farm:
I just wanted to compliment you on all of the wonderful information on your web site. I'm in Albemarle County just north of Charlottesville, and have two horse-crazy daughters, ages just-5 and almost-7. From the description of your programs on your site, I can tell that they are a bit too young to participate in any of your programs (the child has to be 8, unless I've missed something). I just thought I should let you know that the information on your web site far exceeds anything else that is out there on other web sites. I learned more from your site than anywhere else, by far. Your entertaining style makes it really easy to read, too.Thanks again, and I assume I'll be contacting you in a year or two to get Ella and Madison started! Debra Ross, Charlottesville

I wanted to let you know how well Rippa is doing. She came home for the winter and helped to wean my foal and then went off to the boarding barn where I have better facilities to ride and enjoy her.

She went into the band of 9 mares like she had always been there, no squealing or carrying on at all. The first day there I rode her in the indoor with the rain battering the roof and she didn’t even flick an ear. When you say a horse has done it all, you really mean it! I have yet to see her go “left brain” or get worried about anything. She walks on a trailer like she is walking into a stall. Stood quietly for shots and trimmings. I am learning how to find her “buttons” and she is very forgiving and always has a cheerful expression. Everyone at the barn just loves her, but not as much as I do!

Kandi, after 2 unsuitable horses in a row, I was so glad to finally find you and know that you would take the time to match me up with the right horse for me. When I first came out to your place before I was ready to buy, I found two terrific horses (Chip and Joy) that would have been great for me, but could not pursue them until my unsuitable horse was sold. When I came back ready to buy, Chip and Joy were gone, but there was Rippa waiting for me, the most perfect fit I could ever imagine.

Thanks so much, and hopefully we see each other at local shows this season!

Alison Visokay

Hello! Just wanted to say that I love your website! I am in the market for a horse for my 11 year old son and came upon your site. I love Madge! If I had the money, I'd buy her today!! I applaud you for taking the time to really care. I have been taken a few times by "horse traders" who are just out to make a buck. He currently stands in my field and just eats!! But he sure is pretty to look at! LOL!! Anyways, just wanted to drop a line and say how much I like your site! Keep up the good work!!
Melissia Campbell

After stumbling onto your website, I couldn't resist contacting you. I am very impressed with the openness, honesty and depth of knowledge displayed on your site. I agree completely with everything I've read, including the first time buyers guide, how horses are priced, and the importance of fitting horse and rider after seeing them perform. I am currently searching for a horse for my 12 YO daughter and was wondering if it would be a good idea to visit soon, so you can assess her (beginner) skill level and get an idea of what she should look for, or if we should wait until we see a particular horse that we want to try, and then set up a time to meet? Please let me know and I can provide as much (or little) detail about our current situation, history, etc, as desired. Once again, kudos on the website (and all of your new construction). Thanks for your time. Alan

Hello, my name is Hilary Wayland, and I bought a horse from you just over a year ago. I just wanted to let you know how happy I am with her. The horse, her name back then was Mosby, has been so great. My trainer and I, Barbara Barrell, have trained her to be a hunter/jumper, and she has shown tremendous talent in all that she is done. We now have her jumping 3'+ and she soars over it like a dream. She has also done very well, placing 4th at The Lexington Horse Center, in Maiden Equtation Over Fences (3'), and is always in the ribbons at local shows. When we aren't competing we love to go out on trails. She is always willing, and energetic, and serves as a role model to my friend's 3 y/o mare. Thank you again for selling me such a wonderful horse. "Hollywood Moment"

Hi Kandi,

This is Michael (Mike) Kayhoe.I am Laura's hubby.We bought"honey" from you in June.A palomino.

I was the one who sent you the e-mail thanking you for your help and understanding.I stand by every word of what I said.

I had been hurt by a bad "buy".I followed all the rules and still got burned. I was so glad to find you.You lifted my spirits. After I met with you and the "girls" I knew you were of inteligence,knowledge,and INTEGRITY and really did care about matching the owner and horse together.You took the time with me(us)to answer all of our questions without looking down your nose at us because we were still new and getting back into the horses.I don't understand why some horse people look at you with disdain for trying to be a better horseman?All I wanted was to learn.

Would I mind if you used my e-mail or comments? Not at all!

Because of your patience and understanding I am currently seeking another horse from you.

You have been nothing but truthful and honest with me.You have helped ME become a better horse person.My horse and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Mike Kayhoe

I happened across your site while looking at Dreamhorses.com. It is a terrific site! I especially liked you information for first time buyers. All of it was soooo true. I grew up with horses and just got back in to them about 4 years ago at age 41. I have had a terrible time finding the right match...

When I wrote her back to ask her permission to use her comments on the website, she was kind enough to send the following reply:

Thanks for writing back, Kandi. You are more than welcome to use my comments about your site. I really did enjoy it and it is very truthful.

Sandy Taylor

Powhatan, VA

I really like your website and greatly appreciate both your guarantee
and the instructions for first time buyers. We have made a couple of
mistakes already in that area and all your advice is appreciated.
Thank you,
(Name removed upon request, but permission given to use the email.)

Hi Kandi and Tammy, I just want to let you know how well Pippy is doing, with shoes on all four she's having no problems at all. Twice she and Ihave hauled to Nockamixon State Park for a 2 hr trail ride and she has been wonderful, even when something startles her, as you had said, she doesn't become very upset, and moves right along, even swims in the lake. She rides so well tacked up or just bareback through our woods
with our dog (Rhodesian Ridgeback) bounding along the trails with us. I can't tell you how grateful I am to have found your website. It is refreshingly honest and very informative about the horses you offer. We
don't live around the corner from you but the trip to your farm was more than worth it...everyone is so impressed with Pippy and thanks to you I am finally enjoying riding again. In fact my husband, a complete novice, has been asking to ride Pippy, and when the time comes to buy a horse for him we will most certainly come to you. I am so pleased with her in all respects. I thank you both, for your honest assessment of your horses, and for helping me find such a good, gentle, well trained friend. And I thank you for my many rides to come. Cindy Sica of PA.

She (Honey) has such a wonderful temperament and is my best four legged friend! Thank you so much for helping to match me up with the right horse, and for your friendly hospitality. Please also thank Tammy for me for putting up with all of my questions. Laura Kayhoe...Richmond, VA

We sold "Tigger" to Alycia Linstad, of WI, who bought him sight unseen after discussing the horse with us. We are pleased to report that Tigger arrived safely in his new home, and proud to share with you the following email from Alycia "...Thanks so much and I am enjoying him already. He is a neat horse, just as you've said, and he is everything else too. Thank you."

Just wanted to let you know Missy is doing wonderful. She settled right in. Margaret couldn't be happier. She is very comfortable and confident with her. Only problem I can see is Missy getting tooooo spoiled. LOL

Thanks

Sue Trainer who oversaw the purchase of MYTTITE DREAMER (Missy)

Already had a 9 year old on her (I kept the lead line on most of the time to play it safe) and she was perfect. She's really good about the horse, goats, chickens and innumerable dogs.

What a sweety! Katherine Bowers who purchased Sunnys Impress Girl (Sonya)

Dear Kandi & Tammy,

He made the trip home like a trooper and settled right into his new home and routine.

He has impressed everyone with his mellow attitude and outstanding ground manners.

On Sunday we trailered to Lake Anna for a trail ride. Again, he was the best horse on the trailer and nothing flustered him. He has won my heart and that of everyone else in the barn! I will send pictures as he progresses in his training.

Thank you so much! I look forward to working with you again when my youngest needs a pony!

Merleene Farnum (Who purchased "Biff", an American Warmblood.

For those of you who are buying your first horse, please go to our FREE REPORT page and enjoy some advice collected from some 50++ years of experience. A little light hearted, with some real stories about the wonderful people we have met in this business, we hope it helps, or that you at least enjoy it!! Help yourself, and feel free to pass it along.

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This site is updated several times a week, including whenever we add or sell a horse, or when we learn something new about a horse. We are constantly riding, trying, testing, showing and trail riding our horses so we know what they really are before we sell them.

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