Story and photos by Reese Shinkle
(Lawrenceburg, Kentucky) – As the fog evaporates from the pond and the sun rises in Lawrenceburg, KY, Mount Joy Stables becomes visible to the neighboring subdivision and the golf course across the street. But, 50, 100, or even 150 years ago, those fields were filled with cattle, horses, and tobacco plants.
These belonged to William David Mountjoy I, then the 2nd, and the current resident, the 3rd.
William David Mountjoy III, or “Mountjoy” as his close friends call him, is a third-generation saddlebred horse breeder and trainer. Although he does not show horses anymore, his accomplishments live on in the Saddlebred Hall of Fame with his dad and his
grandfather.
And so do the roots of the farm.
“Oh there’s all kinds of history… unbelievable history here from customers we’ve had… records we’ve set”, said Mountjoy.
The 84-year-old legend lives on the estate and still takes care of the horses each day with the help of his staff of three.
Tasks are repeated each morning to foster these majestic animals. Mountjoy wakes up at 5:00 AM each day and feeds the horses, cats, and one goat at sunrise.
But, with his limited mobility, he has the help of Peyton Baker, Jared Keenland, and the new owner of the land, Brandon Holt. These men work long hours and multiple jobs to take care of not only the animals but Mountjoy as well.
Holt has known Mountjoy for the majority of his life and says he considers himself a part of his family, although there is no relation.
“Well, he’s like my dad or grandad, you know, both of mine’s gone… I would say I’m like a son or grandson to him.”
Holt owns the 70 acres of land and gives Mountjoy the ability to live and have full control over the stables until he is gone.
His family will move into Mountjoy’s house and continue the tradition in a new light.
But for now, Mountjoy will take care of his horses, tell crazy stories to customers, and take his afternoon naps in the barn recliner.