For over 200 years horses have continually been part of this land.
Our Story
When we originally purchased the land, we had no idea that we were unwittingly carrying on the tradition of the horse on this property that began over 200 years ago.
The Burch family carved out a homestead on what is now Southern 8ths Farm in the late 1700s. The family bred horses, sent both horses and their six sons and two grandsons to support Wade Hampton’s Calvary and had three generations of their men inducted into the Racing Hall of Fame in Saratoga, NY as horse trainers.
When the Burch family sold the farm to the Davis family, Mr Lucious Davis kept horses and even had a cart track where the locals raced their steeds. And on the day we first saw the property, horses were grazing in the pastures.
The original 77 acres has grown to over 1,400, we have created a training venue for the tradition Eventing format (coincidentally based on early cavalry training), and we are committed to preserving the tradition of the horse in perpetuity on the farm.
Whether you come to ride the trails or train your horse, we hope that you’ll be able to feel the history that we’re lucky enough to share – and have you help us to keep the spirit of the horse alive here for another 200 years.
38 Stall Barn
The guest barn at Southern 8ths Farm has 38 well ventilated and well lit 12’x12’ stalls with rubber mats and wide aisles. With four wash stalls, hot and cold water and easy access to water for horses and muck areas, you’ll spend more time riding and less time cleaning up after each ride. It is a unique barn that offers the latest in horse friendly design. And for added security, the entire barn is well lit and has a security system to ensure you and your horse’s utmost safety and peace of mind.
Outdoor Arena
Our outdoor 200’x 280′ all weather composite arena is complete with mirrors to assess your ride and makes any ride that much better. Whether working on your Dressage or Show Jumping or just working on gymnastics or trot poles, the arena provides a large, well-groomed area that allows you to focus on you and your horse instead of being distracted. And with the lights and speaker system it is the perfect venue for your trainer to help you day or night.
Enclosed Arena
It might be that soaking rain or maybe just the hot, unbearable sun, it doesn’t matter, this arena is a pleasant ride any time – day or night. Our 80’x 180′ steel and fabric arena with its 40′ high ceiling is the latest in covered arena technology. It is bright on the cloudiest day without lights and even brighter at night with the reflective white ceiling. It is a pleasant ride any time day or night.
Trails
With over 600 acres dedicated to equestrian riding and training and more than ten miles of trails, Southern 8ths continues to carry on the tradition of the horse for you and your horse to enjoy.
Cross Country Course
Southern 8ths maintains its Beginner Novice through Preliminary eventing course for schooling. The course was originally designed by Tremaine Cooper for the Long Format Heart of the Carolinas and is available for groups. Please call to learn more since we do not keep the portables on course.
About Visiting Southern 8ths Farm
We welcome individuals who would a enjoy beautiful and relaxed place to ride to make an appointment to visit Southern 8ths Farm. The property may also be used by community and education organizations.
To make an appointment, or for information on having your group visit, please contact
SOUTHERN 8THS FARM.